Crabby Delicious Imitation Crab Salad with a Kick
"Crabby" Delicious: Imitation Crab Salad with a Kick!
Fancy a bit of seafood but don't want to splash the cash? Let's talk imitation crab salad . Honestly, it's one of my go-to recipes when I'm craving something quick and easy.
This krab salad packs a surprising flavor punch and is perfect for a light lunch or a snack.
What's the Deal with This "Crab"?
This budget friendly seafood recipe takes a humble ingredient, surimi, and transforms it into a delicious seafood salad . While it might not be real crab, this fake crab salad is a fantastic alternative.
It’s been a favourite for years.
It is so easy to make and ready in about 30 minutes. This recipe makes about four servings.
Why You'll Love This Imitation Crab Salad Recipe
This easy seafood salad is not only delicious but also relatively healthy! Surimi is a decent source of protein. It’s perfect for a quick lunch, a picnic, or even as a topping for crackers at a party.
It’s all about getting that sweet, savory fix without the fuss or the cost. I love serving my crab salad sandwich !
Imitation Crab Salad: Ingredients You'll Need
Alright, here’s what you'll need to whip up this crab salad with celery : 8 ounces of flaked imitation crab meat , 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, and 1/4 cup each of finely chopped celery and red onion.
Then you have to add 2 chopped hard boiled eggs, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of hot sauce, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and a pinch of salt.
For an extra touch, you can add 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh dill or parsley. Let’s get cooking!
"Crabby" Delicious: Nailin' Your Imitation Crab Salad
Listen up, mates! Ever crave crab but your wallet's screaming "beans on toast again ?" Well, fear not. We're diving into the world of imitation crab salad , or krab salad as some might call it.
This recipe is a banger. It brings that seafood salad satisfaction without the hefty price tag. It's an easy seafood salad that will get even Mary Berry impressed, Seriously.
I’ve got some serious memories of my mum making this, and it tastes just like that!
Main Ingredients: The Nitty Gritty
- Imitation crab meat: You need 8 ounces (225g) . Quality is key. Go for the ones that look and feel like actual crab, not the rubbery kind.
- Mayonnaise: Get ready for 1/2 cup (120ml) . Hellmann’s or Best Foods (same thing, different sides of the pond!) is my go-to. It is super important.
- Celery: Dice up 1/4 cup (60ml) . It gives it a nice crunch!
- Red onion: Finely chop 1/4 cup (60ml) . Adds a bit of zing, you know?
- Hard boiled eggs: Gotta have 2 , chopped.
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed. It's 2 tablespoons (30ml) . Trust me, fresh is best!
- Dijon mustard: Just 1 tablespoon (15ml) will do. Adds depth of flavor.
- Old Bay seasoning: You need 1 teaspoon . This is the secret ingredient.
- Hot sauce: 1/2 teaspoon , or to taste. Tabasco is ace.
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon . Don't be shy.
- Salt: Just a pinch, or to taste. Careful, Old Bay's already salty!
- Optional garnish: 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh dill or parsley. Makes it look fancy, innit?
Seasoning Notes: Spice Up Your Life!
Old Bay and hot sauce are your flavor power couple. Seriously, this crab stick salad gets a lift by this.
If you're not feeling the heat, skip the hot sauce. A squeeze of lemon juice always makes things pop. For a crab salad with celery it is the perfect match.
Don't be afraid to experiment with your spices. The goal is to create a surimi salad that tickles your fancy.
If you want a more budget friendly seafood recipe start by reducing the use of lemon and use vinegar instead.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple, Stupid!
You don't need a fancy setup for this fake crab salad recipe . Just a mixing bowl, a cutting board, and a sharp knife.
Measuring cups and spoons, obviously. An egg slicer is handy, but not essential. I've used a fork in a pinch before and it worked just fine.
Honestly, I think the key is to have a decent mixing bowl that you're comfortable with.
"Crabby" Delicious: Imitation Crab Salad with a Kick!
This classic imitation crab salad gets a little somethin' somethin' extra. I'm talking spice and freshness, baby! It’s perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or on lettuce.
It’s a quick, easy, and budget friendly seafood recipe that hits the spot. Creamy, a little sweet, and with a subtle kick that'll keep you going back.
It's proper good, innit?
Prep Steps for the Best Imitation Crab Salad Recipe
Essential mise en place is key. Chop your celery (1/4 cup) and red onion (1/4 cup) nice and fine. Hard boil two eggs and chop those up too.
Measure out your mayonnaise . Safety first: Watch those fingers with that knife. You know?
step-by-step: Easy Seafood Salad
- Flake or chop 8 ounces of imitation crab meat.
- Whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon Old Bay, 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and a pinch of salt.
- Gently fold in celery, red onion, and eggs.
- Add the "krab" .
- Gently fold. Don't overmix!
- Chill for 15 minutes .
- Garnish and serve.
Pro Tips for A Fab Krab Salad
Avoid overmixing! It makes the salad watery. Chill it good. It helps the flavors meld. And taste and adjust those seasonings.
It's all about your own twist! Wanna make it ahead? You can make the salad a day in advance. Honestly, that's what I do sometimes.
Who has time during the week? This recipe is also great as a crab salad sandwich , just add two slices of bread.
Honestly, this surimi salad is a winner. Plus, it's cheaper than real crab. Win-win, right? Whether you call it fake crab salad or crab stick salad , it’s delicious! And, by adding celery, it makes it a true crab salad with celery .
Recipe Notes for Your "Crabby" Delicious Imitation Crab Salad
Right, so you're about to make this awesome imitation crab salad recipe . Let’s talk a few bits and bobs to make it even better! I’ve made this a tonne of times, and these are things I've learned along the way.
Honestly, this easy seafood salad is so versatile.
Serving Up Super Surimi Salad Sensations
Wanna make your crab salad sandwich look like it came from a fancy deli? Presentation matters! Try piling it high on some toasted brioche.
It's like a crab cake without the fuss. For a light lunch, spoon some krab salad into lettuce cups. Serve it with a nice glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or a crisp lemonade.
Sorted!
Stashing Your Stellar Seafood Salad
Got leftovers? No worries. Pop your fake crab salad in an airtight container. It'll happily sit in the fridge for up to 3 days .
Freezing isn't really recommended, as the mayo can separate. Nobody wants that. To reheat, just give it a good stir.
If it seems a bit thick, a splash of lemon juice perks it right up.
Variations on This Vibrant Imitation Crab Salad
Feeling adventurous? You can totally tweak this crab stick salad . For a low-carb version, ditch the bread and serve it on avocado halves.
Or sub half of the mayo with Greek yogurt. Boom! Healthier imitation crab salad recipe . In the summer, throw in some chopped mango or cucumber.
Makes it super fresh and summery, innit?
Nutrition Nitty Gritty
Okay, let’s be honest, this isn't exactly health food heaven. But it's still a decent source of protein. Each serving clocks in around 250 calories.
You'll get about 15 grams of protein, 20 grams of fat, and 5 grams of carbs. The budget friendly seafood recipe has about 500mg of sodium.
The crab salad with celery and red onion provides some fiber and vitamins too.
So there you have it, my friend. A few tips and tricks to make your imitation crab salad even better.
Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own! You've got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is imitation crab, anyway? Is it actually crab?
Great question! Imitation crab, often called "krab," is made from surimi usually pollock or another white fish that's been processed and shaped to resemble crab legs. It's a more budget friendly alternative to real crab and often dyed reddish orange to complete the illusion.
Think of it like sausages, but fishier!
How long does this imitation crab salad last in the fridge? I don't want to get a dodgy tummy!
Safety first! Properly stored, your imitation crab salad will be good in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make sure it's in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out. If it starts to smell funky or looks a bit off, best to err on the side of caution and chuck it.
When in doubt, throw it out, as they say!
Can I freeze imitation crab salad?
Freezing imitation crab salad isn't recommended. The mayonnaise and other ingredients tend to separate and change texture when frozen and thawed, resulting in a less than-ideal consistency. You're better off making a fresh batch; it's so quick to whip up anyway!
I'm not a huge fan of mayonnaise. Can I substitute anything in this imitation crab salad recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute some or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt for a tangier, healthier option. Sour cream or even a creamy avocado dressing could also work, depending on the flavor profile you're after. Experiment and find what you like best cooking should be fun!
Any ideas on how to spice up my imitation crab salad? It seems a bit bland.
Loads of options! A dash more hot sauce, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or even a finely chopped jalapeño will add some heat. For a different flavor dimension, try adding some chopped fresh dill, parsley, or even a squeeze of lime juice instead of lemon.
Old Bay seasoning is a classic choice, too, for that seafood-y kick!
What are some creative ways to serve this imitation crab salad besides just on crackers?
The possibilities are endless! This salad is fantastic in lettuce wraps for a light lunch, or piled high on toasted brioche rolls for a fancy sandwich. You could also stuff it into avocado halves for a sophisticated appetizer or use it as a topping for baked potatoes. Get creative it's your kitchen, after all!
Crabby Delicious Imitation Crab Salad With A Kic
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 250 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 0g |
