Creamy Seafood Salad

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Recipe Description

This “Crab & Shrimp Style” salad uses surimi (imitation crab) which provides a consistent texture and affordable seafood flavor. Folded into a creamy base of mayonnaise and lemon, the salad is accented by crisp celery and fresh dill. It’s best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld into a savory, refreshing bite.

  • Prep time: 15 minutes

  • Chilling time: 30–60 minutes

  • Servings: 4–6

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (16 oz) Imitation crab meat (flake or chunk style, roughly chopped)

  • ½ cup Mayonnaise (full-fat provides the best flavor)

  • ½ cup Celery, finely diced

  • 2 tbsp Red onion or green onion, minced

  • 1 tbsp Fresh lemon juice

  • 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (or paprika)

  • 1 tbsp Fresh dill, chopped

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep the Crab: If using leg-style imitation crab, chop it into ½-inch bite-sized pieces. If using flake style, break up any overly large chunks.

  2. Mix the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, and fresh dill.

  3. Combine: Add the crab, diced celery, and onions to the dressing. Fold gently with a spatula until every piece is evenly coated.

  4. Season: Taste and add salt or extra pepper as needed.

  5. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This is crucial for the lemon and dill to permeate the seafood.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t over-mix: You want the crab to retain some texture, not become a paste.

  • Dry your veggies: Ensure the celery is dry after washing so it doesn’t water down the dressing.

  • Add Shrimp: To live up to the “Shrimp Style” name, add ½ lb of cooked, peeled, and deveined small bay shrimp.

  • Texture Contrast: For extra crunch, add diced water chestnuts or bell peppers.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Estimated based on 1/6 of recipe

  • Calories: 185 kcal

  • Total Fat: 12g

  • Carbohydrates: 14g

  • Protein: 6g

  • Sodium: 650mg

Benefits of This Recipe

  • Budget-Friendly: Provides the “seafood experience” at a fraction of the cost of fresh lobster or king crab.

  • High Protein/Low Carb: While imitation crab has some carbs (from starch), it remains a relatively lean protein source when paired with a light hand of mayo.

  • No-Cook Meal: Perfect for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the stove.

Q&A

Q: Can I use real crab instead? A: Absolutely! If using real lump crab meat, be even more gentle when folding to keep the lumps intact. You may also want to increase the lemon juice slightly.

Q: How long does this stay fresh? A: It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It does not freeze well due to the mayonnaise base.

Q: What should I serve this with? A: It’s versatile! Try it:

  • Inside a toasted brioche roll (Lobster roll style).

  • On top of a bed of butter lettuce.

  • With buttery crackers or inside a hollowed-out tomato.

Q: Is imitation crab gluten-free? A: Check the label carefully. Many brands of imitation crab use wheat starch as a binder, so it is often not naturally gluten-free.

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