Creamy, refreshing, and full of flavor, this imitation crab salad is the perfect no-cook dish for a light lunch, summer potluck, or easy meal prep. Ready in minutes and totally customizable!
🕒 Quick Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Dietary Tags: Pescatarian | Low-Carb | Gluten-Free Option
🛒 Ingredients
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1 lb imitation crab, flaked
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⅓ cup celery, finely diced
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2 tbsp shallot, finely diced
For the Dressing:
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¾ cup mayonnaise
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
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½ tsp kosher salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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1 tsp dried dill
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1 tsp dried parsley
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⅛ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Crab & Veggies
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Place flaked imitation crab in a large mixing bowl.
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Add diced celery and shallot. Set aside.
2️⃣ Make the Dressing
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In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Old Bay, salt, pepper, dill, parsley, and cayenne (if using).
3️⃣ Combine & Chill
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Pour the dressing over the crab mixture and stir until fully coated.
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Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
4️⃣ Serve It Up
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Serve immediately or chill for 1–2 hours for enhanced flavor.
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Garnish with fresh parsley or dill before serving (optional).
🥗 Serving Suggestions
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On a bun – like a lobster roll, with lettuce and a soft toasted roll
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In lettuce cups – for a low-carb, gluten-free option
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With crackers or pita chips – makes a great dip!
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In a croissant – for a brunch-worthy twist
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Over a salad – scoop it onto mixed greens for a light meal
💡 Tips & Variations
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Lighten it up: Use light mayo or half mayo, half Greek yogurt to reduce calories and W-W points.
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Add crunch: Stir in diced cucumber or bell pepper for added texture.
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Go spicy: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or extra cayenne if you love heat.
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Gluten-Free Tip: Most imitation crab contains wheat—look for certified gluten-free brands if needed.
🧊 Storage
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Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Not freezer-friendly – Mayo-based salads tend to separate when frozen.
🔎 Nutrition & W-W Points (Per serving, 4 servings total)
Estimated per serving (using full-fat mayo):
Calories: ~320 | Fat: ~28g | Carbs: ~7g | Protein: ~9g
W-W Points:
➡️ 9 Points per serving (full-fat mayo)
➡️ 5 Points per serving (with light mayo like Hellmann’s Light)
➡️ 3 Points per serving (if using half light mayo + half nonfat Greek yogurt)
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes! It’s even better after it sits for a few hours in the fridge.
Q: Is this recipe keto or low-carb?
A: Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs (~7g/serving), but check your imitation crab label, as some brands add starches.
Q: Can I use real crab?
A: Absolutely. This salad works beautifully with lump crab or canned crab meat.
📝 Final Thoughts
Simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable, this imitation crab salad is a no-fuss favorite. Whether served on a picnic plate or tucked in a buttery roll, it’s guaranteed to please.