Creamy Crab Macaroni Salad

Description

A light, creamy, and refreshing salad made with pasta, imitation crab meat, fresh cucumber, and a tangy mayo dressing. Perfect for summer picnics, family dinners, or as a quick meal prep option.

Ingredients For Creamy Crab Macaroni Salad

• 2 cups macaroni (cooked & cooled)

• 1 ½ cups imitation crab meat (chopped)

• 1 cup cucumber (thinly sliced or halved rounds)

• 1 medium carrot (shredded or diced small)

• ½ cup onion (optional, finely chopped)

• ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter option)

• 2 tbsp sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)

• 2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley (chopped)

Instructions

1. Cook Pasta – Boil macaroni until al dente, drain, and rinse with cold water. Let it cool.

2. Prepare Veggies & Crab – Dice imitation crab, slice cucumber, and shred carrot.

3. Make Dressing – In a bowl, mix mayo, sour cream, mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

4. Combine – Toss pasta, crab, cucumber, carrot, and onion in a large bowl. Pour in dressing and mix well.

5. Chill – Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving (best flavor when cold).

6. Garnish – Sprinkle with fresh dill or parsley before serving.

 Servings

Makes 4–6 servings.

 Notes & Tips

• You can swap cucumbers with celery for extra crunch.

• For protein boost, add boiled eggs or shrimp.

• Adjust mayo to make it lighter or creamier.

• Always chill before serving – flavors deepen after resting.

 Nutritional Info (per serving, approx. for 6 servings)

• Calories: 250–280

• Protein: 9g

• Carbs: 28g

• Fat: 12g

• Fiber: 2g

 Benefits

• Quick & easy (done in 20 minutes).

• Refreshing, light, and filling.

• Great for meal prep and parties.

• Beginner-friendly recipe.

 Q & A

Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
✅ Yes, prepare 1 day ahead, store in airtight container in fridge. Stir before serving.

Q: Can I use real crab instead of imitation?
✅ Absolutely! Fresh lump crab meat makes it even more delicious.

Q: How long does it last?
✅ Up to 3 days in refrigerator.