Go Back
Crab salad served on a plate with crackers

Classic & Creamy Crab Salad Recipe

This Crab Salad is a light, creamy, and refreshing dish made with tender crab meat, crisp celery, and red onion, all tossed in a tangy and flavorful dressing. It’s perfect as a side dish, sandwich filling, or served over lettuce for a low-carb meal. Ready in just 10 minutes, this easy salad is ideal for quick lunches, meal prep, or summer gatherings!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American, Seafood
Servings 4

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing spoon or spatula

Ingredients
  

  • For the Crab Salad:
  • 1 lb 450g lump crab meat (or imitation crab)
  • ½ cup celery finely diced
  • ¼ cup red onion finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill chopped (or parsley)
  • For the Dressing:
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • ½ tsp Old Bay seasoning or paprika
  • ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional, for spice
  • For Garnishing Optional:
  • Extra dill or parsley
  • Lemon wedges
  • Crushed crackers or toasted bread

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
  • Drain and pat dry the crab meat to remove excess moisture.
  • Finely chop the celery, red onion, and fresh dill.
  • Step 2: Make the Dressing
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  • Step 3: Mix the Salad
  • Add the crab meat, celery, red onion, and dill to the dressing.
  • Gently fold everything together until the crab is evenly coated.
  • Step 4: Chill & Serve
  • Let the crab salad chill in the fridge for at least 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  • Serve on crackers, inside an avocado, as a sandwich filling, or over lettuce leaves for a refreshing meal.

Notes

Use Fresh Crab: If using fresh crab, check for any remaining shells.
Make it Healthier: Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter version.
Extra Flavor: Add chopped cucumber, bell pepper, or a dash of hot sauce for variety.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Keyword Crab salad, creamy crab salad, easy crab salad, seafood salad, cold crab salad, low-carb crab salad, healthy crab salad, keto crab recipe