The Best Homemade Crab Salad Recipe

Luscious crab meat mixed with creamy mayo and zesty lemon, creating a refreshing salad that’s perfect for any occasion—discover the secret.

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What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade crab salad is a breeze to make, and the fresh, creamy flavors will have you hooked from the first bite.

  • Quick and easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
  • Versatile: Enjoy it as a sandwich filling, on crackers, or over a bed of greens for a light meal.
  • Fresh and flavorful: Sweet crab meat paired with crisp veggies and a tangy dressing makes every bite delicious.

Recipe

refreshing crab salad recipe

Crab salad is an invigorating and versatile dish that’s perfect for a light meal, sandwich filling, or appetizer. Made with simple ingredients, it’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

1 pound crab meat (fresh or imitation)

1/4 cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/4 cup finely chopped celery

1/4 cup finely chopped red onion

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth.
  2. Add chopped celery, red onion, and parsley to the bowl. Stir to combine.
  3. Gently fold in the crab meat, being careful not to break it apart too much.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Serve chilled as a salad, on crackers, or in a sandwich.

Notes:

  • Use fresh crab meat for the best flavor, but imitation crab works well too.
  • Adjust mayonnaise quantity for desired creaminess.

Equipment:

Large mixing bowl, whisk or spoon, knife, cutting board.

Time:

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 0 minutes

Cuisine:

American

Serving:

4 servings

Nutrition

This crab salad is a light and nutritious dish, perfect for a healthy meal. Below is the nutritional information per serving.

NutrientAmount per Serving
Calories220 kcal
Protein18 g
Carbohydrates8 g
Fat12 g
Fiber2 g
Sugar3 g

What To Serve With It

Wondering what to pair with your crab salad? I love serving it with crisp greens or buttery crackers for a light meal, but it’s also fantastic on toasted sourdough for something heartier. Let’s talk about the best sides and breads to make your meal complete.

Side Dish Options

A great crab salad deserves sides that complement its light, fresh flavors without stealing the show. I love pairing it with a simple cucumber or avocado salad, as their coolness enhances the crab’s sweetness. A tangy coleslaw adds crunch without being too heavy, and I often toss in some citrusy greens like arugula or spinach for a fresh bite. Roasted veggies, like asparagus or zucchini, work beautifully too, offering a hint of warmth. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll serve it with chilled buttered corn or a lightly dressed pasta salad. These sides keep the meal balanced and let the crab shine.

Bread Pairings

When you’ve got a creamy, flavorful crab salad, the right bread can turn it into something truly special—I’m all about texture and taste here. A crusty baguette adds a satisfying crunch, while soft sourdough lets the crab shine. I love buttery croissants for a rich, indulgent twist, and whole-grain bread brings a nutty, earthy balance. For something light, try toasted ciabatta or a fluffy brioche bun. My go-to? A crisp lettuce cup for a low-carb option. Experiment with different breads to find your favorite match—it’s all about creating harmony with that delicious crab salad.

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