Ingredients:

  • 1 lb imitation crab meat (flakes or sticks, coarsely chopped)
  • 1 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup high-quality mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
  • 2 tbsp red onion, minced and rinsed
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill or chives, minced

Instructions:

  1. Prep the surimi. Chop the 1 lb imitation crab into half inch pieces.
  2. Rinse the aromatics. Place the 2 tbsp minced red onion in a strainer and run under cold water until the sharp odor dissipates.
  3. Whisk the binder. In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tsp Dijon, 1 tsp lemon juice, 1/2 tsp Old Bay, and 1/4 tsp pepper.
  4. Emulsify the dressing. Stir the mixture vigorously until it looks glossy and silky.
  5. Fold in the crunch. Add the 1/2 cup diced celery and rinsed onions to the dressing.
  6. Add the protein. Gently toss the chopped crab into the bowl.
  7. Herbal finish. Sprinkle the 2 tbsp of fresh dill or chives over the top.
  8. The final fold. Use a spatula to combine everything until the crab is fully enveloped in a thin, even coat.
  9. Chill. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.