Big Crab Seafood Salad

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Big Crab Seafood Salad

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

  • 2 lbs imitation crab meat (or real lump crab if preferred), chopped
  • 1 lb small cooked shrimp, tails off
  • 3 stalks celery, finely chopped
  • 1 medium red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
  • 4 large hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional but tasty)
  • ¾ cup diced cucumber (peeled and seeded)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Dressing:

  • 1½ cups mayonnaise
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning (or to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Dash of hot sauce (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Prep the seafood:
  • Chop the crab meat into bite-sized chunks.
  • Rinse and pat dry the shrimp. If large, cut them into smaller pieces.
  1. Combine the base:
  • In a very large mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, shrimp, celery, onion, bell peppers, peas, hard-boiled eggs, cucumber, cheese (if using), and parsley.
  1. Make the dressing:
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Old Bay, garlic powder, paprika, hot sauce, and salt & pepper until smooth and creamy.
  1. Mix it all together:
  • Pour the dressing over the seafood-veggie mixture.
  • Gently toss until everything is well coated.
  1. Chill:
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best) to let the flavors meld.
  1. Garnish & serve:
  • Garnish with extra parsley or paprika before serving.
  • Serve chilled with crackers, croissants, lettuce cups, or just as-is!

Storage:

  • Keeps in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
  • Not freezer-friendly due to the mayo-based dressing.

Benefits:

  • High in protein from seafood and eggs.
  • Cool and refreshing—ideal for hot weather.
  • Easy to make ahead for gatherings.
  • Customizable—add diced avocado, pasta, or corn if desired.

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