Crab Pasta Salad Recipe
Introduction
This Crab Pasta Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for warm days or as a light meal. Combining tender pasta with imitation crab and crisp vegetables, it’s creamy with a hint of dill and brightened by fresh chives. Easy to prepare and chill ahead, it’s a delightful salad to enjoy anytime.
Ingredients
- 1 pound medium shells pasta
- 14 ounces imitation crab meat
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (thawed)
- 1/2 cup red onion (peeled and chopped)
- 1/2 cup celery (chopped)
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper (seeded and chopped)
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill (chopped) or 1 teaspoon dried dill
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- Fresh chives (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and generously salt the water. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, imitation crab meat, thawed peas, chopped red onion, celery, and red bell pepper.
- Step 3: Add the mayonnaise and dill to the bowl. Gently stir until all ingredients are well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 4: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Step 5: Before serving, uncover and garnish with freshly chopped chives. Serve cold and enjoy.
Tips & Variations
- For a lighter version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra brightness.
- Try swapping imitation crab with cooked shrimp or fresh crab meat for different seafood flavors.
- Use fresh peas instead of frozen for added sweetness and crunch during pea season.
Storage
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed chilled. If it thickens after storing, stir in a little extra mayonnaise or a splash of milk before serving. Avoid freezing, as the mayonnaise-based dressing can separate.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh crab instead of imitation crab?
Yes, fresh crab meat works wonderfully in this salad and adds a richer flavor. Be sure to drain any excess liquid from fresh crab before mixing it in.
How long should I chill the pasta salad before serving?
Chilling for at least 1 hour allows the flavors to meld and the salad to set. You can make it up to a day ahead for convenience and improved taste.
PrintCrab Pasta Salad Recipe
This Crab Pasta Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for a light lunch or a side at summer gatherings. Made with tender medium shell pasta, flaky imitation crab meat, crisp vegetables, and a creamy dill mayonnaise dressing, it combines a delightful mix of textures and tastes. Chilled and garnished with fresh chives, this easy-to-make salad offers a satisfying blend of seafood and fresh garden ingredients.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Pasta and Seafood
- 1 pound medium shells pasta
- 14 ounces imitation crab meat
Vegetables
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (thawed)
- 1/2 cup red onion (peeled and chopped)
- 1/2 cup celery (chopped)
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper (seeded and chopped)
Dressing and Seasoning
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill (chopped) or 1 tsp dried dill
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- Fresh chives (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and generously salt the water. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and run the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, imitation crab meat, thawed peas, chopped red onion, celery, red bell pepper, mayonnaise, and dill. Gently stir the mixture until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Season and Chill: Taste the salad and add salt and pepper as needed. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill properly.
- Serve: Remove the salad from the fridge, uncover, and sprinkle fresh chopped chives over the top as a garnish. Serve cold and enjoy.
Notes
- Use medium shell pasta to help hold the dressing and crab pieces well.
- For a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Ensure to chill the salad for at least one hour to enhance flavor fusion and texture.
- Fresh dill provides the best flavor, but dried dill can be used as a convenient alternative.
- If preferred, swap imitation crab meat with fresh cooked crab for a more authentic taste.
Keywords: Crab Pasta Salad, seafood salad, cold pasta salad, easy summer salad, mayonnaise crab salad
