Creamy Crab Salad

This Creamy Crab Salad recipe is filled with plump crab meat (or imitation crab) in a creamy and tangy sauce that’s perfect on a toasted roll or served by itself.

If you love this classic deli salad, you’ll also want to try my Broccoli Cheddar Salad or Creamy Pea Salad! 

My daughter works in the deli department of the grocery store, and when I asked her what the most popular deli salad was, she said it was by far the Crab Salad!

I was shocked, but then again, not really. Crab salad is super delicious as a quick side dish, or even better when it’s served on a buttery, toasted roll like a crab po’boy. 

Creamy Crab Salad

We’re using imitation crab meat to make this delicatessen salad for the sake of money. If you want to use fresh real crab meat, go for it! But using the imitation crab is still delicious.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s the basic list of ingredients you’ll need in order to make this creamy crab salad recipe. As always, you can find the full list of ingredients located in the printable recipe card below.

• Imitation Crab Meat – either the sticks or flaked variety will work
• Celery – adds a nice crunch
• Onion – I’m using purple onion for it’s nice flavor.
• Mayo
• Lemon Juice
• Old Bay Seasoning
• Fresh Dill – you can also use dried 

How To Make Crab Salad

This quick and easy crab salad comes together in just a few minutes, making it the perfect last minute side dish for any potluck or summer party.

MAKE THE DRESSING

Start by mixing up the creamy dressing in a medium bowl. Whisk together the mayo, lemon juice, old bay seasoning, dill, salt and pepper.

ADD IMITATION CRAB MEAT

Combine the cut up crab meat, finely chopped celery and onion to the bowl with the dressing and stir to coat evenly. 

Once the crab salad is combined, you can enjoy it right away or cover and chill in the fridge for up to 2 days.

How To Serve Crab Salad

Crab salad is fantastic when served in lettuce wraps, on a toasted and buttered bun, or just enjoyed by itself on a warm summer day. 

You could even serve this creamy salad with multigrain crackers as an appetizer or snack.

Recipe Tips and Variations

Here are some easy tips and variations you can make to this yummy crab salad recipe. 

• Not a fan of celery? Swap it out with finely diced green bell peppers.
• If you don’t have fresh dill on hand, dry dill weed will work too. You’ll just use 1 tsp, rather than 1 tbsp.
• Try swapping out the imitation crab for lobster to make a creamy lobster salad!
• Crab salad is best when served chilled, so make sure to keep it refrigerated until ready to enjoy.

How To Store Crab Salad (Seafood Salad)

SERVE:  Once the crab salad is prepared it’s best to serve right away, or keep chilled until ready to enjoy. 

STORE:  Place the prepared crab salad in an air tight container and store in the fridge for up to 2 to 3 days.

FREEZE:  I do not recommend freezing this salad, as it will not have a pleasant texture when defrosted. It’s best to prepare this salad fresh when ready to enjoy. 

Each bite of this cool and creamy crab salad reminds me of being on the coast. It’s so refreshing and delicious all at the same time.

More Salad Recipes

If you’re in the mood for salads, I’ve got you covered with these cool and creamy delights!

• Shrimp Pasta Salad
• Creamy Cucumber Avocado Salad
• Instant Pot Potato Salad
• Simple Coleslaw Recipe

I can’t wait for you to give this delicious deli seafood salad recipe a try! I know you’re going to love it as much as we do!

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