Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) imitation crab meat or cooked seafood, chopped
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red bell pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or dill
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the seafood: Chop the imitation crab meat into bite-sized pieces. If using shrimp or other seafood, ensure it is fully cooked and cooled.
- Chop the vegetables: Dice the celery and red bell pepper into small pieces.
- Make the dressing: In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Add the seafood, celery, and bell pepper. Gently stir until everything is coated in the creamy dressing.
- Add herbs: Fold in the chopped parsley or dill.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to let the flavors develop. Serve cold.
Nutrition Information
Estimated per serving, based on 6 servings
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180–250 |
| Protein | 8–15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5–12 g |
| Fat | 12–20 g |
| Fiber | 1–2 g |
Nutrition varies depending on the seafood used and the mayonnaise brand.
Tips and Variations
- For extra protein: Use cooked shrimp, real crab meat, or a mixture of seafood.
- For a lighter salad: Replace half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
- For extra crunch: Add finely diced cucumber or green onions.
- For a little spice: Add a dash of hot sauce or paprika.
- For serving: Enjoy in lettuce cups, sandwiches, wraps, or alongside crackers.
Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, provided the seafood was fresh and properly refrigerated.
- Keep the salad chilled and do not leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours (1 hour in temperatures above 32°C / 90°F).
- Do not freeze, as the creamy dressing may separate after thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use imitation crab meat?
Yes! Imitation crab is convenient and works very well in this creamy salad.
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare it several hours ahead and refrigerate. For the best crunch, add the vegetables shortly before serving.
Q: Is seafood salad keto-friendly?
It can be made lower in carbohydrates by using real crab or shrimp and checking labels carefully. Imitation crab often contains added starches and sugars.
Q: Can I make it without mayonnaise?
Yes. Use plain Greek yogurt or a mixture of Greek yogurt and a little olive oil for a lighter dressing.
Q: What allergens should I know about?
This recipe may contain shellfish, fish, eggs, and mustard, depending on the ingredients. Imitation crab commonly contains fish and may contain wheat, soy, or other allergens. Check packaging carefully.
Enjoy this creamy, crunchy seafood salad as a quick lunch, light dinner, or crowd-pleasing side dish! 🦐🥗
