This seafood salad is creamy, fresh, and packed with flavor. Perfect for sandwiches, lettuce wraps, crackers, or served chilled as a light lunch. It’s simple to make but tastes like something from a seaside café.
INGREDIENTS
For the Seafood
1 lb imitation crab meat or cooked real crab, chopped
1/2 lb cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
1/2 cup celery, very finely diced
1/4 cup red onion, very finely minced
1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
1/4 teaspoon paprika
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins
1 tablespoon fresh dill
1 teaspoon hot sauce
1/4 cup diced cucumber
1 boiled egg, finely chopped
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1 – Prepare the Seafood
If using imitation crab, chop into bite-size pieces.
If using real crab, carefully check for shell fragments and gently flake it.
Chop shrimp into small chunks.
Step 2 – Prepare the Vegetables
Finely dice celery and red onion so they blend smoothly into the salad.
Chop parsley.
Step 3 – Make the Dressing
In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Old Bay, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 4 – Combine Everything
Add the seafood, celery, onion, relish, and parsley to the bowl.
Gently fold everything together until evenly coated.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5 – Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
This allows the flavors to blend and makes the salad extra delicious.
SERVING IDEAS
Serve on toasted sandwich rolls
Stuff into croissants
Spoon into lettuce cups
Serve with crackers
Add to a bed of mixed greens
Fill avocado halves
STORAGE
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Do not leave at room temperature for long periods.
TIPS FOR BEST RESULTS
Use small diced vegetables for better texture
Chill before serving for best flavor
Add extra lemon juice for a brighter taste
Use high-quality mayonnaise for a rich, creamy result
This seafood salad is creamy, slightly tangy, lightly seasoned, and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for meal prep, gatherings, or an easy no-cook dinner.