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Easy Crab Salad

This classic crab salad recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, making it the perfect go-to for when you need a delicious dish without a fuss. It's fast, easy, giftable, and a crowd-pleaser.
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Prep Time 15 minutes

Equipment

  • Medium-sized bowl
  • Plastic wrap
  • Refrigerator
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Sharp knife

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients

  • 16 ounces flaked imitation crab Look for the flake-style, which gives a great texture.
  • 0.33 cup red onion Very finely diced. Make sure it's finely diced so you don't get overwhelming chunks.
  • 1 stalk celery Finely diced. Brings that satisfying crunch and freshness that balances the richness.
  • 1 cup mayonnaise The creamy binder that brings everything together. Use your favorite kind!
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice A little tang to brighten up all the flavors.
  • 1.25 teaspoons Old Bay Seasoning This is where the classic seafood flavor really shines! Don't skip this.
  • 0.75 teaspoon dried dill Adds a delicate, herby note that’s just perfect. Fresh is always a treat if you have it!
  • 0.5 teaspoon coarse salt To enhance all those wonderful flavors.
  • to taste freshly ground black pepper A little warmth and zing.
  • 0.125 teaspoon cayenne pepper Just a tiny bit for a subtle hint of heat. It really elevates the dish!

Instructions
 

  • Combine the Stars. Grab a medium-sized bowl. Add your flaked imitation crab, the finely diced red onion, and the finely diced celery. Give it a little gentle toss to combine these base ingredients.
  • Bring on the Creaminess and Flavor! Now, it’s time to add the luscious mayonnaise. Squeeze in that bright lemon juice. Sprinkle in the magical Old Bay Seasoning, the dill, the coarse salt, and a good grind of black pepper. Don't forget that tiny pinch of cayenne for that little kick!
  • Stir it All Together. Using a spoon or a spatula, gently stir everything until it's just well combined. We don't want to mash the crab too much, so a gentle hand is key here.
  • Let the Flavors Mingle. This is the hardest part – waiting! Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time is super important; it allows all those delicious flavors to really meld and get to know each other. The wait is absolutely worth it!

Notes

Leftover crab salad is a treasure! Keep it stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It's usually best enjoyed within 3-4 days.