Creamy Crab & Cucumber Salad

Ingredients

  • 12 oz (340 g) imitation crab meat, chopped or pulled into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 medium cucumbers, sliced or chopped
  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • ¼ cup light mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins

  • ¼ cup finely diced red onion
  • 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • A pinch of paprika or Old Bay seasoning

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cucumber:
    Wash the cucumbers and slice them into thick half-moons or bite-sized chunks. If they are very watery, sprinkle them lightly with salt and let them sit for 10 minutes. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Prepare the crab:
    Cut the imitation crab into chunks or gently pull it apart with your fingers for a shredded texture. Place it in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Make the creamy dressing:
    In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, dill, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Combine everything:
    Add the cucumber to the bowl with the crab. Pour the dressing over the top and gently fold until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
  5. Chill:
    Cover and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes so the flavors can blend together. You can serve it immediately, but chilling makes it even more delicious.
  6. Garnish and serve:
    Sprinkle with extra fresh dill and a little black pepper before serving.

Serving Ideas

Enjoy this creamy salad:

  • On a bed of crisp lettuce
  • Stuffed into lettuce cups
  • With whole-grain crackers
  • In a wrap or sandwich
  • Alongside grilled chicken or fish
  • As a quick, refreshing lunch

Tips for the Best Salad

  • Keep it crisp: Add the cucumber shortly before serving if making the salad ahead.
  • Use fresh herbs: Fresh dill gives the salad its bright, classic flavor.
  • Make it lighter: Replace all the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
  • Add more protein: Mix in chopped boiled eggs or serve with grilled chicken.
  • Adjust the creaminess: Add an extra spoonful of yogurt if you prefer a creamier salad.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir gently before serving, as the cucumber may release a little liquid.

✨ Quick, creamy, refreshing, and beginner-friendly—this is the kind of easy salad you’ll keep making again and again!

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