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Crab Pasta Salad

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Crab Pasta Salad is a creamy and tangy seafood-inspired dish made with tender shell pasta, imitation crab, crisp veggies, and a zesty mayo-based dressing. It’s perfect for potlucks, lunches, or cool summer meals.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Chilled
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 12 oz small shell pasta
  • ¾ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • ½ cup dill pickles, diced
  • 12 oz imitation crab meat, flaked
  • ½ cup celery, diced
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • ¾ cup frozen peas (no need to thaw)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside to cool completely.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. Add dill, pickles, crab meat, celery, red onion, green onions, and peas to the bowl. Stir to combine.
  4. Gently fold in the cooled pasta until evenly coated in dressing.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
  6. Garnish with extra dill, if desired, before serving.

Notes

  • Use real crab meat for a more indulgent version.
  • Swap half the mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
  • Add diced bell pepper or cucumber for extra crunch.
  • Use different pasta shapes like rotini or elbow if preferred.
  • Don’t freeze; best served chilled within 3 days.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/crab-pasta-salad/