Name: The BEST Seafood Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces imitation crab meat, flaked or sliced; 8 ounces raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 lemon, quartered; ½ cup celery, finely diced; 3 tablespoons red onion, minced; ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning; 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice; Salt and black pepper, to taste; ½ cup mayonnaise; 1½ tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

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This light and creamy seafood salad is packed with tender shrimp, flaky imitation crab, crisp celery, and a hint of Old Bay seasoning for that classic seafood flavor. It’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or served as a refreshing side dish. Whether you’re preparing it for a summer picnic, a light lunch, or a quick dinner, this easy seafood salad is a guaranteed hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh & Flavorful: The combination of shrimp, imitation crab, and fresh dill creates a perfect balance of flavors.
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for meal prep.
Versatile: Serve it as a sandwich, in a lettuce wrap, or enjoy it straight from the bowl.
Make-Ahead Friendly: The flavors get even better after chilling in the fridge!

Ingredients (Serves: 4)

8 ounces imitation crab meat, flaked or sliced
8 ounces raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lemon, quartered
½ cup celery, finely diced
3 tablespoons red onion, minced
½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
Salt and black pepper, to taste
½ cup mayonnaise
1 ½ tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Shrimp

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the quartered lemon for extra flavor.
Add the shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes, until pink and opaque.
Transfer the shrimp to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking, then drain and pat dry.

2. Combine the Salad

In a large bowl, mix together:
- Cooked shrimp (chopped, if preferred)
- Flaked imitation crab
- Celery
- Red onion
- Old Bay seasoning
- Lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper
- Mayonnaise
- Fresh dill
Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

3. Chill & Serve

Garnish with extra fresh dill.
Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days to enhance the flavors.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 220 kcal per serving

Variations

Spicy Version: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free mayo for a completely dairy-free version.
Low-Carb Alternative: Serve in lettuce wraps instead of bread.
Extra Crunch: Add diced cucumber or bell peppers for more texture.
Alternative Protein: Swap imitation crab for real lump crab meat for a more decadent version.

Storage

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Do Not Freeze: Mayonnaise-based salads do not freeze well.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes! If using pre-cooked shrimp, just chop and mix it directly into the salad—no boiling needed.

2. What can I serve this with?

Try it in sandwiches, wraps, on crackers, over a bed of greens, or stuffed in an avocado.

3. Can I use real crab meat instead of imitation crab?

Absolutely! Real lump crab meat makes this even more luxurious.

4. How can I make this healthier?

Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version.

5. What’s the best way to keep this salad fresh?

Store it in a sealed container and stir before serving to refresh the flavors.

6. Can I add other seasonings?

Yes! Try adding paprika, garlic powder, or a touch of Dijon mustard for extra depth.

7. Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes! If using real crab meat and a low-carb mayo, it’s perfect for a keto diet.

8. Can I serve this warm?

This salad is best served chilled, but you can slightly warm it if preferred.

9. Can I make this in advance?

Yes! In fact, letting it sit for a few hours enhances the flavors.

10. What’s the best substitute for Old Bay seasoning?

Use a mix of paprika, celery salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne.

Conclusion

This creamy and refreshing Seafood Salad is a must-try for seafood lovers. Easy, quick, and bursting with flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion—whether as a sandwich filling, wrap, or light meal. Make it ahead, chill it, and enjoy the best homemade seafood salad!