Easy Crab Salad Recipe

The Best Crab Salad You’ll Ever Make

This creamy, flavorful crab salad comes together in just 20 minutes with simple ingredients you probably already have.

Tossed in a zesty mayo dressing with fresh chives, crunchy celery, and a squeeze of lemon, it’s the perfect balance of rich and refreshing.

Your family will love enjoying this crab salad in different ways—on buttery crackers, in a sandwich, or straight from the bowl.

And you’ll love how quick, easy, and delicious it is to make!

For the Crab Salad

• Imitation Crab Meat – Use flaked or chopped crab sticks for the perfect texture.
• Red Onion – Adds a mild sharpness and crunch.
• Celery – Brings a refreshing crunch to the salad.
• Chives – Adds a subtle onion-like flavor and freshness.

For the Dressing

• Mayonnaise – Provides the creamy base for the salad. Use full-fat or low-fat.
• Sour Cream – Adds tanginess; Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens up the flavors and balances the richness.
• Dijon Mustard – Adds a mild, zesty kick.
• Old Bay Seasoning – A classic seafood seasoning that enhances flavor.
• Salt & Pepper – To taste, for the perfect seasoning.

Easy Crab Salad Recipe

Looking for a quick and delicious dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion? This easy crab salad comes together in just 20 minutes with simple ingredients!

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Course: Appetizer, Salad, Seafood, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Easy Crab Salad Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes minutes

Servings: 8

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Ingredients

• 24 oz imitation crab meat (flaked or chopped)
• ½ red onion, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 2 tbsp chives, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• ¾ cup mayonnaise (full-fat or low-fat)
• ¼ cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp Old Bay seasoning
• Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the crab meat, red onion, celery, and chives.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the mayo, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the crab mixture and gently toss to coat. Adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Serving Ideas

• Enjoy over a bed of lettuce for a light meal.
• Scoop onto buttery crackers for a quick appetizer.
• Pile onto a sandwich roll for a delicious crab salad sandwich.

Storage Tip

For the best taste, consume within 2 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Calories: 246kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 9g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 22mg | Sodium: 625mg | Potassium: 42mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 118IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 15mg | Iron: 1mg

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1. Can I use real crab instead of imitation?
   Absolutely! If you have fresh or canned lump crab meat, go for it. Just make sure to drain it well and flake it before mixing.
2. How do I keep the salad from getting watery?
   Make sure to pat dry the crab meat, celery, and onion before mixing. This helps keep the salad creamy, not runny!
3. What’s a good substitute for mayo?
   Greek yogurt or sour cream works great if you want a lighter option with the same creamy texture.
4. How long does this crab salad last in the fridge?
   Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days.
5. Can I add extra ingredients?
   Of course! Try adding diced bell peppers, cucumbers, avocado, or even a little shredded cheese for extra flavor and texture.