This creamy crab-style seafood salad comes together fast and tastes like a deli favorite. It’s cool, refreshing, and perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or serving over crisp lettuce.
After a short chill in the fridge, the flavors meld into a creamy, tangy bite with just the right crunch from celery and onion.
Flavor & Texture Highlights
Tender imitation crab, a creamy lemon-Dijon dressing, and crisp veggies make every bite balanced and satisfying. Optional dill adds a fresh, classic seafood-salad finish.
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Why You’ll Love This
- Quick and easy: mix, chill, serve.
- Perfect for lunches, parties, and meal prep.
- Versatile: serve it in sandwiches, wraps, or lettuce cups.
- Tastes even better after chilling.
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Note: Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card at the end of the post.
- Imitation crab
- Mayonnaise
- Fresh lemon juice
- Dijon mustard
- Celery
- Red onion
- Corn kernels
- Salt and black pepper
- Fresh dill (optional)
- Lettuce leaves (for serving)
How to Make This Recipe
Note: The detailed step-by-step instructions are included in the recipe card at the end of the post.
- Whisk the dressing until smooth.
- Fold in the crab gently so it stays chunky.
- Add veggies, season to taste, then chill.
- Serve cold over lettuce, with crackers, or in sandwiches.
Tips
- Chill at least 30 minutes (1 hour is even better).
- Dice celery small for the best texture.
- Fold gently so the crab doesn’t break down too much.
- Add a tiny squeeze of lemon right before serving if you want it brighter.
Storing
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing is not recommended (mayo-based salads don’t thaw well).
FAQs
Can I use real crab instead of imitation crab?
Yes. Real crab works great. Fold it in gently to keep the pieces intact.
What should I serve with it?
Crackers, toasted bread, croissants, lettuce cups, or a simple green salad all work well.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes. This recipe is perfect for making ahead because it tastes better after chilling.
Meta Description
Creamy crab-style seafood salad made with imitation crab, mayo, lemon, Dijon, and crisp veggies. Easy, fresh, and perfect for sandwiches or crackers.
Creamy Seafood Salad with Imitation Crab
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 lb imitation crab, shredded into chunks
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, minced
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (drained if canned)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- Lettuce leaves, for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
- Gently fold in the imitation crab.
- Add celery, red onion, and corn. Season with salt and pepper, and add dill if using.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (1 hour is best).
- Serve cold over lettuce, in sandwiches, or with crackers.