The Best Homemade Crab Meat Salad Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This crab meat salad recipe is perfect for anyone who loves fresh, flavorful dishes. It’s quick to make and packed with delicious ingredients. You’ll love how easy it is to customize with your favorite veggies or spices. The creamy dressing brings all the flavors together perfectly, making it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s light yet satisfying, great for a quick lunch or a fancy dinner side.
Recipe
Crab meat salad is a revitalizing and versatile dish that can be served as a light meal or a side. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for summer gatherings or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lump crab meat (fresh or canned)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Mix well.
- Add the crab meat, celery, and parsley to the bowl. Gently fold the ingredients together until evenly coated.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning (if using). Adjust to taste.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled with crackers, on a bed of lettuce, or as a sandwich filling.
Notes:
- Verify the crab meat is free of shells before mixing.
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula for mixing
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Serves 4
Nutrition
This homemade crab meat salad is a nutritious dish packed with protein and essential vitamins. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 90 mg |
| Sodium | 580 mg |
| Vitamin A | 15% DV |
| Vitamin C | 20% DV |
| Calcium | 10% DV |
| Iron | 6% DV |
What To Serve With It
A buttery baguette or toasted sourdough makes the perfect partner for this crab salad, letting you scoop up every last bite. If you’re craving something lighter, a crisp side salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness beautifully. I love adding avocado slices or cherry tomatoes for extra freshness—they just work.
Fresh Bread Options
When I’m serving up my homemade crab meat salad, I always think about pairing it with something that complements its rich, creamy texture without stealing the spotlight. Fresh bread is my go-to—simple, yet perfect. A crusty baguette adds crunch, while soft brioche brings buttery sweetness. Sourdough’s tang balances the salad’s richness, and whole-grain toast adds earthy depth. Warm pita or ciabatta works too, soaking up every delicious bite. Just slice, toast lightly, and serve. The right bread elevates the meal without overpowering the star. It’s all about balance, letting the crab shine while the bread plays its supporting role.
Side Salad Pairings
Though crab meat salad is already a star on its own, I love rounding out the meal with a crisp side salad. A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully. I’ll sometimes add avocado slices for creaminess or thinly sliced radishes for a peppery bite. For something heartier, I toss together a Caesar salad with homemade croutons—it’s a classic combo. If I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll make a citrusy arugula salad with orange segments and shaved Parmesan. These sides add freshness and make the meal feel complete without overpowering the crab’s delicate flavor.
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