Looking for a simple and flavorful crab salad recipe? This easy crab salad with imitation crabmeat is the perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and crunchy. Whether you’re making it for a light lunch, picnic, or family gathering, this classic crab salad is sure to impress. Made with fresh ingredients like celery, green onions, mayonnaise, and Old Bay seasoning, this dish is a must-try! Serve it with crackers, hot dog buns, or on a bed of lettuce for a refreshing meal. Learn how to make this quick crab salad recipe in minutes and enjoy a delicious seafood dish today!

Ingredients:
- 1 pound imitation crabmeat (flaked)
- ⅓ cup finely chopped celery
- ¼ cup finely chopped green onions (about 2)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- Fresh lemon juice (for garnish and a squeeze)
- Crackers or hot-dog-style buns (for serving)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients.
- Gently stir to combine until the mixture is well mixed and smooth.
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate until you’re ready to enjoy. Stir again before serving.
- Serve with crackers or buns, and garnish with lemon wedges.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This crab salad is an irresistible combination of creamy, flavorful ingredients with a hint of tangy lemon and the perfect crunch from celery and green onions. Quick to prepare, this dish is ideal for a light meal, appetizer, or picnic. The addition of Old Bay seasoning gives it that classic crab flavor, while the imitation crabmeat makes it accessible and affordable.

Tips
- Make sure to stir the salad gently so the crabmeat stays intact and doesn’t turn into mush.
- If you want to prep ahead of time, refrigerate the salad for a few hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
Variations and Substitutions
- For a lighter version: Swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or a light sour cream.
- Add more crunch: Include diced bell peppers or shredded carrots.
- Make it spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the mix.
- Different crab: If you prefer real crab, you can substitute it for imitation crab.
FAQs
Can I make this crab salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad can be made a few hours in advance or even the night before. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
Can I use real crabmeat?
Definitely! You can substitute imitation crab with real crab meat for a more luxurious version of this dish.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Just give it a stir before serving again.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this crab salad on a bed of lettuce for a refreshing, low-carb option.
- Pair it with a crisp white wine or iced tea for a light and satisfying meal.
- For a more substantial meal, serve with fresh bread or over rice.
Enjoy your delicious and easy-to-make crab salad!
Crab Salad Recipe
4
servings15
minutesIngredients
1 pound imitation crabmeat (flaked)
⅓ cup finely chopped celery
¼ cup finely chopped green onions (about 2)
½ cup mayonnaise
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (plus extra for garnish)
1 teaspoon dried parsley
¾ teaspoon salt
Fresh lemon juice (for garnish and a squeeze)
Crackers or hot-dog-style buns (for serving)
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients.
- Gently stir to combine until the mixture is well mixed and smooth.
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate until you’re ready to enjoy. Stir again before serving.
- Serve with crackers or buns, and garnish with lemon wedges.

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