Creamy Seafood Salad with Imitation Crab, Shrimp, and a Flavor Explosion!
- Debra
- May 21
- 4 min read
Have you ever thought about how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly amazing? If you haven't tasted a creamy seafood salad with imitation crab meat, shrimp, celery, red onion, dill weed, mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper, you're in for a delightful surprise!
In this post, we will explore the wonderful world of seafood salad and share the secrets to making a dish that's not just tasty but also beautifully creamy. Whether it's a summer picnic, a family gathering, or a cozy dinner at home, this seafood salad will impress everyone. Get ready to uncover the magic!
The Joy of Seafood
Seafood has a special way of bringing people together. Many of us have cherished memories of sunny beach days and enjoying delicious meals with friends and family. The mix of flavors and textures in seafood salad creates a dish that feels fancy yet simple.
The main ingredients of our salad — imitation crab and shrimp — provide not just great taste but also a solid protein boost. In fact, a 3-ounce serving of imitation crab has about 72 calories and 15 grams of protein, while shrimp packs around 84 calories and 18 grams of protein for the same serving size. Together, they make a perfect partnership that's both creamy and refreshing.
Ingredients: Crab & Shrimp Salad
16 oz Imitation Crab meat
9 oz bag shrimp salad
1 cup diced red onion
2 stalks celery chopped
1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 tsp lemon juice
2 tsp Old Bay
1/2 Tbsp fresh dill weed (1/2 tsp dried dill weed)
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Let's Get Started!
In a mixing bowl add the mayonnaise, lemon juice, old bay, dill weed, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix the ingredients well until it is creamy and smooth and set to the side.
In a large bowl combine the chopped imitation crabmeats, red onion, celery, and shrimps.
Next add the seasoned mayo mixture to the large bowl and gentle toss until all the ingredients are coated.
Why Imitation Crab?
Imitation crab meat is made from surimi, a fish paste that offers a budget-friendly option for enjoying crab flavors without breaking the bank. It's easy to work with and soaks up flavors wonderfully.
In this salad, imitation crab serves as the foundation, allowing shrimp and other fresh ingredients to shine. Interestingly, many seafood salads use only real crab, but the addition of imitation crab gives this recipe an exciting twist.
The Goodness of Shrimp
Shrimp are a beloved ingredient in seafood dishes, adding a wonderful texture to our salad. Each tender bite pairs nicely with the crunchy celery and spicy red onion, ensuring every scoop is satisfying.
For the best results, be sure to use cooked and chilled shrimp. This keeps the salad light and refreshing while making it easy to mix in.
Fresh and Flavorful Add-Ins
What truly sets this seafood salad apart is its array of fresh ingredients. Celery contributes a refreshing crunch that lightens the dish, while finely chopped red onion gives a tangy kick that awakens the flavor.
Dill weed is another essential ingredient. Its fragrant aroma and herbaceous taste complement the seafood perfectly, enhancing every mouthful. A study found that using fresh herbs in recipes can increase the perceived freshness of a dish by 30%.
Old Bay seasoning is the finishing touch. This classic spice blend, famous for enhancing seafood, adds a rich layer of flavor that can't be overlooked.
Creamy Dill Mayo – The Perfect Dressing
Now let's talk about the dressing! A creamy dill mayonnaise ties all the ingredients together in this seafood salad. Its richness adds depth and enhances the flavors we love while delivering that smooth, creamy texture we crave.
To make the dressing, simply combine your favorite mayonnaise with chopped dill weed, a dash of Old Bay seasoning, and a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Adjust the flavors to your liking; if you prefer a lighter salad, a squeeze of lemon juice can add a nice zing.
Bringing It All Together
With all our ingredients ready, it's time to assemble the salad. In a large bowl, combine the imitation crab meat, cooked shrimp, diced celery, and chopped red onion.
Pour your creamy dill mayo over the mixture and gently fold everything together. Be cautious not to break down the crab or shrimp too much.
Once everything is well mixed, taste and adjust the seasoning with more Old Bay, salt, or pepper if desired. Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes — this helps the flavors blend beautifully, resulting in an even tastier dish.
Enjoying Your Seafood Salad
There are many ways to enjoy your creamy seafood salad. Serve it chilled on a bed of fresh greens for a refreshing light meal, or pile it onto bread for a delicious sandwich. You can also pair it with crackers for a fantastic appetizer or enjoy it on its own.
This dish is ideal for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply enjoying a savory treat at home, this seafood salad is sure to please.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to preparing a standout dish for your summer gatherings or a satisfying light meal, look no further than this creamy seafood salad. The delightful mix of imitation crab, shrimp, celery, and dill mayo with Old Bay seasoning creates a flavor explosion that your taste buds will adore.
So roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a go! Not only will you enjoy the deliciousness, but you’ll also impress your family and friends with your cooking skills! Bon appétit!
Bon Appetit, ENJOY!
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