Description
This Fresh and Flavorful Seafood Salad combines tender shrimp, succulent crab meat, and crisp vegetables, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing made with mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and fresh lemon juice. Perfectly chilled to meld the flavors, this light and refreshing salad is ideal for a healthy lunch or a quick dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 1 pound cooked shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 cup crab meat (imitation or real, depending on preference)
Vegetables
- 1 cup celery (diced)
- ½ cup red onion (finely chopped)
- ½ cup cucumber (diced)
Dressing
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt (for a lighter dressing option)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley (chopped), plus more for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Seafood: If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and drain well. Cut large shrimp into bite-sized pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the salad.
- Prepare the Crab: Break imitation crab meat into small, manageable pieces; if using real crab, gently flake the meat to maintain texture.
- Combine the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine diced celery, finely chopped red onion, and diced cucumber. These add a satisfying crunch and freshness to the salad.
- Mix the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice until smooth. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste, creating a creamy and tangy dressing.
- Toss Together: Add the prepared shrimp and crab meat to the vegetable mixture. Pour the dressing over all ingredients and gently toss to combine thoroughly without breaking up the seafood.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the salad to chill properly.
- Garnish and Adjust: Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the salad and adjust seasoning if necessary for optimal flavor.
Notes
- Using fresh seafood ensures the best flavor, but cooked frozen shrimp and imitation crab are convenient alternatives.
- Greek yogurt can be substituted with additional mayonnaise if a richer dressing is preferred.
- For added zest, consider a pinch of Old Bay seasoning or a dash of hot sauce in the dressing.
- Serve chilled, making this salad perfect for warm weather meals or light lunches.
- Can be served over mixed greens or stuffed into a sandwich for variety.
