Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite summer dish—crab salad seafood salad! This delightful mix is like a beach day on a plate, full of freshness and flavor that just dances on your taste buds. Imagine tender, sweet crab meat tossed with crisp veggies, all smothered in a creamy, zesty dressing. It’s so refreshing that every bite feels like a mini vacation! I love whipping this up for gatherings, but honestly, I could eat it any day, anytime. The joy of preparing it is just as great as savoring it; the vibrant colors and tantalizing smells make it hard to resist. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself craving that bright, ocean-inspired flavor again and again!
Ingredients for Crab Salad Seafood Salad
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making this delicious crab salad seafood salad! You’ll need:
- 1 pound of fresh crab meat – The star of the show! Fresh crab meat makes all the difference in flavor.
- 1 cup of mayonnaise – This adds that creamy goodness we all love.
- 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice – Just the right amount of zesty brightness!
- 1/2 cup of diced celery – For that lovely crunch and freshness.
- 1/4 cup of diced red onion – Adds a pop of color and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard – A little tanginess to elevate the taste.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Always adjust to fit your palate!
- Fresh parsley for garnish – A sprinkle of green for that finishing touch!
With these simple ingredients, you’re well on your way to a delightful dish that’s sure to impress!
How to Prepare Crab Salad Seafood Salad
Now, let’s dive into making this delectable crab salad seafood salad! It’s super simple, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together.
- First, grab a large mixing bowl and gently combine the crab meat, diced celery, and diced red onion. Be careful not to break up the crab too much—those lovely chunks are what make this salad special!
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard until smooth and creamy. This dressing is what brings everything to life!
- Next, pour the dressing over the crab mixture. Here’s where the magic happens! Gently toss everything together, making sure all the ingredients are coated in that luscious dressing.
- Now, season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy—this is your chance to make it just right!
- Once everything is mixed, cover the bowl and chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This little break allows all those flavors to meld beautifully.
- Finally, before serving, garnish your salad with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that perfect finishing touch. And there you have it—a refreshing, delicious crab salad seafood salad ready to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to make: Just 15 minutes of prep, and you’re on your way to deliciousness!
- Refreshing and flavorful: Each bite bursts with the taste of fresh seafood and zesty dressing, perfect for warm days.
- Low calorie option: At around 250 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that won’t weigh you down.
- Versatile for serving: Whether as a light lunch, a side dish at a BBQ, or scooped onto crackers, it fits any occasion!
Tips for Success with Crab Salad Seafood Salad
To make your crab salad seafood salad truly shine, here are some handy tips! First and foremost, always use fresh crab meat if you can—it’s a game changer in terms of flavor! If you’re using canned crab, look for high-quality options to keep the dish delicious. Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning to your liking; a little extra salt or lemon juice can enhance the flavors beautifully. And for serving, consider pairing it with crackers for a delightful crunch or spooning it onto a bed of crisp lettuce for a light meal. Trust me, these little touches will elevate your salad to the next level!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. However, here’s a general idea of what you can expect per serving of this delicious crab salad seafood salad:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
This salad is not only refreshing but also a great source of protein while being low in calories!
FAQ about Crab Salad Seafood Salad
I know you might have a few questions about making this crab salad seafood salad, so let’s tackle some of the most common ones!
- Can I use imitation crab meat? Absolutely! While fresh crab meat is preferred for its flavor, imitation crab meat can work in a pinch. Just keep in mind it’ll have a slightly different taste and texture.
- How long can I store leftovers? You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again!
- What can I serve with crab salad seafood salad? This salad is super versatile! Try it with crackers for a crunchy snack, or serve it on a bed of lettuce for a light meal. It’s also delicious as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your crab salad seafood salad fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it can last for up to 2 days if stored properly. When you’re ready to serve it again, give it a gentle stir to reintroduce the dressing, and if it seems a bit dry, a splash of lemon juice or a dollop of mayo can help refresh its flavor. Enjoy every delightful bite!
For more information on the health benefits of seafood, check out this article.
If you’re looking for more delicious recipes, visit our blog for inspiration!
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Crab Salad Seafood Salad: 5 Reasons to Love This Dish
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A refreshing crab salad made with fresh seafood and vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 pound crab meat
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine crab meat, celery, and red onion.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
- Pour the dressing over the crab mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Gently toss to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Serve with crackers or on a bed of lettuce.
- Use fresh crab meat for better flavor.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: crab salad, seafood salad