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

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:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth.
- Add chopped celery, red onion, and parsley to the bowl. Stir to combine.
- Gently fold in the crab meat, being careful not to break it apart too much.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- 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.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 3 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.








