🦀 Creamy Imitation Crab Salad Recipe
Description
This creamy crab salad is a cool, refreshing dish made with imitation crab meat, crunchy celery, and a flavorful dressing of light mayonnaise, lemon juice, and dill. It’s perfect for lunch, a picnic, or a light dinner — and it’s super low in points/calories!
Ingredients
(Serves 4 – about 1 cup each serving)
- 1 lb (16 oz) imitation crab meat (flake or chunk style, chopped)
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup light mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for even lighter version)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for tang)
- 1 tsp dried dill or 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning or a dash of paprika
Instructions
- Prep ingredients: Chop the imitation crab meat and dice the celery and green onions.
- Make the dressing: In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, dill, mustard (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Add the chopped crab, celery, and green onions. Gently toss until evenly coated.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
- Serve: Enjoy it cold on lettuce leaves, crackers, or in a sandwich/wrap.
Notes & Tips
- Texture: Use chunk-style imitation crab for a meaty bite.
- Flavor Boost: Add diced cucumber, red bell pepper, or a splash of hot sauce.
- Low-Point Version: Use fat-free Greek yogurt or light mayo to keep it around 2 Weight Watchers points per serving.
- Storage: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Serving Ideas:
- Stuff into a tomato or avocado.
- Serve over mixed greens.
- Make a crab salad wrap or sandwich.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
(Estimated, for 4 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~140 kcal |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Carbs | 9 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | ~600 mg |
| WW Points | ~2 (using light mayo) |
Benefits
✅ High in protein but low in calories
✅ Great for meal prep and portion control
✅ Quick (10-minute prep)
✅ Perfect cold meal for busy days
✅ Customizable with veggies or spices
Q&A
Q: Can I use real crab meat?
A: Yes! Real lump crab makes it more flavorful and higher in protein, though it raises the cost slightly.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Absolutely. Use dairy-free mayo alternatives.
Q: How long does it last?
A: Best eaten within 3 days when refrigerated.
Q: Can I freeze crab salad?
A: Not recommended — the mayo dressing separates after thawing.
Q: How do I make it more filling?
A: Serve it with whole-grain crackers, on a croissant, or over quinoa or mixed greens.