This Creamy Crab Pasta Salad is the perfect blend of tender pasta, delicate crab, crisp veggies, and a rich, tangy dressing. It’s refreshing, easy to make, and ideal for picnics, potlucks, lunches, or quick dinners. Every bite delivers cool comfort and satisfying flavor.
Kitchen Items:
Large pot
Mixing bowls
Cutting board
Knife
Strainer
Spatula or spoon
Ingredients
3 cups cooked pasta (elbow, rotini, or shells)
2 cups imitation crab or real crab meat, chopped
½ cup celery, finely diced
½ cup red bell pepper, finely diced
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp sour cream
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp black pepper
Salt to taste
Optional: ½ cup sweet corn or peas
Optional: Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool quickly.
Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl.
Add the crab meat, celery, red bell pepper, onion, and any extra veggies you want to include.
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture.
Gently fold everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—add more lemon juice, pepper, or salt.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This helps the flavors blend beautifully.
Garnish with fresh dill or parsley right before serving.
Tips or Serving Suggestions
Add chopped hard-boiled eggs for extra richness.
Use a mix of mayo and Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Serve chilled alongside grilled meats or seafood.
Perfect for meal prep—store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
