Crab Salad (Seafood Salad)

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) imitation krab meat (aka kani or surimi), drained and flaked
  • ½ cup celery, finely minced (~2–3 stalks)
  • ¼ cup shallot, finely minced (~1 small shallot)
  • ½ cup mayonnaise (full-fat recommended for creaminess)
  • ½ tsp paprika (smoked or sweet—your choice)
  • ½ tsp dried dill (or 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped)
  • ¼ tsp Kosher salt
  • ¼ tsp coarse ground black pepper

 

 

Optional Add-Ins:

  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (for brightness)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (for tang)
  • ½ tsp Old Bay seasoning (for a Chesapeake twist)
  • A few drops of hot sauce (for heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Flake the Krab Meat

  • Open the package and drain any liquid.
    • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container.
    • Refrigerate at least 1 hour, preferably 2 hours, to allow flavors to deepen and ingredients to chill thoroughly.Use your fingers or a fork to gently flake the krab into bite-sized pieces.

       Pro Tip: Taste and adjust—add more dill, salt, or a splash of lemon juice if desired.