Crab Pasta Salad is the perfect dish for those warm summer days when you’re craving something light yet satisfying. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy enough for a gathering but is so easy to make, you’ll want to whip it up for a quick lunch at home.
The cool, tender pasta pairs beautifully with the sweet, delicate flavor of crab, while the creamy dressing brings everything together with just the right amount of tang and freshness.
This salad has a lovely balance of textures, from the crunch of fresh veggies to the rich bite of the crab. Whether you’re packing it for a picnic or serving it alongside Classic Spaghetti Stuffed Garlic Bread at a weekend barbecue, it’s sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s easily customizable, add a squeeze of lemon or a handful of fresh herbs for a personal touch.
Why I Love This Recipe?
- The perfect dish for a hot day when you want something cool and flavorful.
- With minimal prep, it’s ideal for when you’re short on time.
- It’s a hit at family gatherings, especially with seafood lovers.
- You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
Crab Pasta Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound Medium shell pasta
- 14 ounces Imitation crab meat
- ½ cup frozen Peas thawed
- ½ cup Red onion peeled and chopped
- ½ cup Celery chopped
- ½ cup Red bell pepper seeded and chopped
- ¾ cup Mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Fresh dill chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chives chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, crab, peas, onion, celery, bell pepper, mayonnaise, and dill. Gently stir until evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Garnish with fresh chives and serve cold.
Notes
- You can substitute real crab meat for a more authentic flavor.
- Feel free to add other fresh vegetables like cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 322 kcal |
| Protein | 12g |
| Fat | 16g |
| Carbohydrate | 38g |
| Sodium | 430mg |
| Sugar | 2g |
Can I Use Imitation Crab in This Recipe?
Yes, imitation crab works perfectly for this recipe. It’s more affordable and still gives you that great seafood flavor.
What Kind of Pasta Is Best for Crab Pasta Salad?
Short pasta shapes like rotini, bowtie, or penne are ideal. They hold the dressing well and mix nicely with the other ingredients.
How Long Can I Store Crab Pasta Salad?
You can store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving as the dressing might settle.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, making it a few hours ahead or even the night before is a great idea. The flavors will have more time to blend, making the salad even tastier.