Imitation crab meat, also known as surimi, is a versatile and budget-friendly seafood alternative made from processed whitefish. With its flaky texture and mild crab flavor, it can be used in place of real crab in many recipes. From classic crab cakes to Asian-inspired dishes, there are so many delicious ways to enjoy this handy product.
In this article, we will explore 15 amazing recipes to make with imitation crab meat. These ideas range from appetizers and snacks to main courses, so you can get creative with imitation crab for any meal or occasion.
Appetizers and Snacks
Imitation crab meat shines in appetizers and snacks. Its mild flavor pairs well with creamy, spicy, and crunchy ingredients. Here are some imitation crab appetizers to try:
1. Crab Rangoon
Crab Rangoon is a classic Chinese-American appetizer featuring crab and cream cheese wrapped in crispy wonton wrappers. Imitation crab rangoon delivers all the flavors you love without the high price tag of real crab. Simply mix crab meat, cream cheese, green onions garlic powder and Worcestershire sauce. Spoon the filling into wonton wrappers and fry until golden. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce.
2. Crab Salad Wonton Cups
For an elegant presentation, serve crab salad in miniature crispy wonton cups. Combine imitation crab with mayonnaise, lemon juice, diced celery, onion, and seasonings. Spoon the salad into baked wonton cups and garnish with fresh dill.
3. Buffalo Chicken Crab Dip
Give traditional buffalo chicken dip a seafood twist by swapping in imitation crab. The zesty, cheesy flavors pair perfectly. Mix crab meat with cream cheese, ranch dressing, hot sauce, and shredded cheese. Bake until bubbly, then dig in with tortilla chips or celery sticks.
4. Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Imitation crab makes these stuffed mushroom caps extra decadent. Sauté crab with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, lemon juice and herbs. Stuff large mushroom caps with the mixture, then bake until hot and melty
Salads and Sides
The mild taste of imitation crab complements fresh vegetables, pasta, rice, and grains. It adds protein and flavor to side dishes and salads. Here are some tasty ideas:
5. Greek Pasta Salad with Imitation Crab
This Greek-inspired pasta salad gets a dose of seafood flavor from imitation crab. Toss rotini with a vinaigrette, feta cheese, red onion, bell pepper, olives, tomatoes, and imitation crab. The tangy flavors are so refreshing.
6. Cold Soba Noodle Salad with Kani
For an Asian spin, make a cold soba noodle salad with kani (imitation crab). Combine cooked soba noodles with julienned kani, sliced cucumber, shredded carrots, green onion, and sesame seeds. Drizzle with a soy, lime and ginger dressing.
7. Crab Fried Rice
Imitation crab fried rice is an easy weeknight dinner. Simply stir fry crab meat with rice, peas, carrots, eggs, soy sauce, and sesame oil for a fast and delicious meal. Garnish with sliced green onions.
8. Kani Kama (Imitation Crab and Cucumber Salad)
This simple Japanese salad combines julienned imitation crab and cucumbers with a sweet vinegar dressing. It’s the perfect accompaniment to sushi but also makes a light and refreshing side dish on its own.
9. Mexican Crab Cocktail
For a fun twist on seafood salad, try this Mexican crab cocktail. Mix imitation crab with tomato, avocado, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, lime juice, and seasonings. The bright, fresh flavors are fantastic.
Main Dishes
Of course, imitation crab also shines in main dish recipes. It’s affordable enough to build entire meals around. Here are some delicious mains featuring imitation crab:
10. Crab Cakes
A classic crab cake recipe swaps in imitation crab so you can enjoy this meal without breaking the bank. Form patties with imitation crab, bread crumbs, egg, onion, Old Bay seasoning, and lemon juice. Pan fry until golden brown. Serve with lemon wedges and remoulade sauce.
11. Cheesy Crab Mac and Cheese
For an indulgent twist on mac and cheese, stir imitation crab meat into the creamy sauce along with extra cheese. The crab adds rich flavor and makes this comfort food feel special.
12. Imitation Crab Alfredo
Imitation crab Alfredo is a quick and impressive pasta dinner. Simmer crab in an easy homemade Alfredo sauce with garlic, Parmesan, heavy cream, and spices. Toss with fettuccine and garnish with parsley.
13. Thai Coconut Curry with Imitation Crab
Make Thai curry at home with imitation crab for added protein. Simmer crab in coconut milk with curry paste, vegetables, and seasonings. Ladle the fragrant curry over jasmine rice for a hearty meal.
14. Cheesy Crab and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Jumbo pasta shells stuffed with crab, spinach, and three cheeses make an amazing baked pasta. The creamy, savory filling is irresistible. Drizzle marinara sauce on top for even more flavor.
15. Imitation Crab Casserole
This comforting casserole layers imitation crab, egg noodles, cream of mushroom soup, cheese and seasonings. The simple ingredients combine into a rich, decadent meal that tastes like splurging at a seafood restaurant.
Endless Possibilities
This list just scratches the surface of how to cook with imitation crab meat. Let your imagination run wild! Imitation crab works in so many dishes across cuisines, from sushi rolls to quesadillas, pot pies to pizza. With its affordable price and versatility, imitation crab opens up limitless recipe possibilities.
The key to choosing imitation crab is checking the ingredients list. Look for options containing Pollock or Hoki fish, rather than flaked whitefish of unknown origin. And steer clear of products listing “artificial crab flavor” which lack seafood entirely. As long as you choose a quality brand, imitation crab can deliciously stand in for pricier real crab.
So next time you come across this handy product at the grocery store, grab a pack and get cooking! With this wide range of recipe ideas, you’ll never be bored making meals with imitation crab meat. It adds impressive flavor and protein to snacks, sides, salads, and entrees.
Rainbow Roll Sushi Photo credit: Masala Herb
This rainbow sushi rolls recipe by Masala Herb is prepared with imitation crab, avocado, cucumber and various toppings to make the sushi roll look just like a rainbow.
If you’ve never made a sushi roll before, she gives easy step-by-step instructions so there’s no need to be worried.
It’s a great recipe that’s very similar to California rolls — my favorite kind of sushi!
Homemade California Poke Bowl with Imitation Crab Photo credit: A Paige of Positivity
This California poke bowl recipe by A Paige of Positivity is refreshing and simple with imitation crab as the main ingredient.
A poke bowl is a Hawaiian dish with marinated seafood, served over rice and topped with fresh veggies, sauces, and crunchy toppings.
I love to top them with creamy avocado, fresh cucumber, sweet mango, and a dash of tangy spicy mayo.
What Can I Make With… Imitation Crab! | Cooking for Two | 4 Easy Recipes using Imitation Crabmeat
FAQ
What is the best way to eat imitation crab meat?
Comments Section Sushi or sushi bowl, especially spicy krab. Add to creamy pastas. Alfredo, mac n cheese, or a baked pasta casserole if you want to go full midwestern. And don’t forget good old krab dip. My dad used to just chop it and put it on salads with vinaigrette when I was a kid.
What’s the point of imitation crab meat?
Fresh crab can be costly. Therefore, imitation crab is often offered as a substitute. Just like the name implies, imitation crab contains no crabmeat. Fish is, however, one of the main ingredients.
How long is imitation crab meat good for in the fridge?
Does fake crab meat need to be cooked?
Imitation crab meat, often made from surimi (processed fish), is fully cooked during the manufacturing process. Therefore, it does not need to be cooked before eating. You can use it straight from the package in salads, sandwiches, or cold dishes.