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Creamy Crab Salad Recipe

Updated on 4 min read

Description

This Creamy Crab Salad is a refreshing, protein-packed seafood dish made with tender crab meat (or imitation crab), crisp celery, fresh herbs, and a smooth, tangy dressing. It’s perfect for meal prep, summer gatherings, low-carb lunches, or as a filling for sandwiches and lettuce wraps. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this high-protein seafood recipe is both budget-friendly and delicious.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb imitation crab meat (or real lump crab meat for premium version)

  • 2–3 celery stalks, finely chopped

  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)

  • ½ cup mayonnaise (use avocado oil mayo for healthier option)

  • 2 tablespoons sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • Optional: 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion

Optional Add-ins:

  • Chopped cucumber (for extra crunch)

  • Hard-boiled eggs (for added protein)

  • Paprika or Old Bay seasoning (for seafood flavor boost)

  • Green onions for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crab

If using imitation crab (surimi), chop it into bite-sized pieces. If using real crab meat, gently shred it with your hands or fork, being careful not to break up large lumps too much.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables

Finely chop the celery and fresh dill. If using red onion or green onions, dice them finely for balanced flavor distribution.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a medium mixing bowl, combine:

  • Mayonnaise

  • Sour cream

  • Dijon mustard

  • Lemon juice

  • Garlic powder

  • Onion powder

  • Salt and pepper

Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the crab meat, celery, dill, and optional ingredients into the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold everything together until evenly coated.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30–60 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve on toasted brioche buns for a seafood sandwich recipe

  • Spoon into lettuce wraps for a low-carb keto seafood meal

  • Use as a filling for croissants

  • Serve with crackers as a party appetizer

  • Add to a bed of mixed greens for a healthy seafood salad bowl

Nutrition (Approximate per serving)

  • Calories: 250–300

  • Protein: 12–18g

  • Carbohydrates: 10–15g

  • Fat: 20–25g

  • Low-carb option available with keto mayonnaise

Pro Tips for the Best Crab Salad

✔ Use real lump crab meat for a gourmet seafood experience
✔ Chill at least 1 hour for enhanced flavor
✔ Add a dash of Old Bay for authentic coastal flavor
✔ For a healthier version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream
✔ Store in airtight container for up to 3 days

Frequently Asked Questions (High CPM SEO Keywords Included)

Below are related questions designed to target high CPC/CPM keywords in niches such as seafood recipes, healthy eating, weight loss meals, keto diet plans, meal prep ideas, and grocery budgeting.

1. Is crab salad healthy for weight loss?

Crab salad can be a healthy, high-protein meal depending on the dressing used. Using light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt lowers calories, making it suitable for weight loss meal plans.

2. Can I make keto crab salad?

Yes! Use full-fat mayonnaise and avoid added sugars. Serve in lettuce wraps for a low-carb seafood recipe perfect for ketogenic diets.

3. What is the difference between real crab and imitation crab?

Real crab is natural shellfish, while imitation crab (surimi) is made from white fish and flavoring. Real crab contains more natural protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

4. How long does seafood salad last in the refrigerator?

Properly stored in an airtight container, crab salad lasts 2–3 days in the fridge.

5. What are the best meal prep seafood recipes?

Crab salad, tuna salad, shrimp avocado salad, and salmon bowls are excellent high-protein meal prep options.

6. Is imitation crab healthy?

Imitation crab is lower in cost but may contain added starch and sodium. It can still be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.

7. What are low-carb lunch ideas with seafood?

  • Crab lettuce wraps

  • Shrimp Caesar salad

  • Grilled salmon bowl

  • Tuna stuffed avocados

8. How can I make a dairy-free crab salad?

Simply omit sour cream and use dairy-free mayonnaise alternatives.

9. Can crab salad be frozen?

Freezing is not recommended because mayonnaise separates and affects texture.

10. What are high-protein seafood recipes for muscle building?

  • Grilled salmon with quinoa

  • Garlic butter shrimp

  • Crab salad with Greek yogurt

  • Baked cod with vegetables

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