Crab is a delicious and versatile protein that can be incorporated into many recipes, from crab cakes to crab dip. But one of the most popular ways to enjoy crab is in a fresh crab salad. The sweet, briny flavor of crab meat pairs perfectly with crisp, cool greens and veggies. But what salad goes best with crab? Here are 7 salad ideas that complement crab wonderfully.
1. Classic Green Salad
A simple green salad is one of the most classic pairings with crab salad. The lightness of the greens allows the crab flavor to really shine. For the base use a combination of lettuces like butter lettuce red leaf lettuce, and romaine. Then add some crunch with vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, radishes, and carrots. Fresh herbs like dill, chives, parsley or basil also help to accent the crab. Keep the dressing light with a squeeze of lemon juice and olive oil so it doesn’t overpower the crab. This refreshing salad is the perfect complement to a crab-based meal.
2. Spinach Salad
Another excellent foundation for a crab salad is fresh spinach leaves. Spinach has a subtle flavor that won’t compete with the crab. For added texture, top the spinach with sliced strawberries, mandarin oranges, red onion, toasted almonds and crumbled bacon Drizzle with a sweet and tangy dressing like poppyseed or strawberry vinaigrette The slight bitterness of the spinach paired with the sweetness of the fruit and crunch of the nuts brings out the sweetness of the crab salad.
3. Greek Salad
The Mediterranean flavors of a Greek salad marry beautifully with crab salad. Start with a base of crisp romaine lettuce. Next add diced cucumbers, tomatoes bell peppers red onion, Kalamata olives and feta cheese. For the dressing, a lemon vinaigrette, red wine vinaigrette or Greek dressing are all excellent choices. The brininess of the olives, creaminess of the feta and bright vegetables complement the rich crab meat. A sprinkle of fresh oregano adds additional Greek flair.
4. Caesar Salad
A classic Caesar salad is another foolproof pairing for crab salad. The rich, garlicky dressing and salty Parmesan cheese are the perfect complement. Chopped romaine lettuce, shaved Parmesan, garlic croutons and a creamy Caesar dressing are essential. Add the crab salad in generous chunks over the lettuce and sprinkle with extra Parmesan. For extra decadence, top with crispy pancetta or bacon pieces. The cool crunch of the lettuce paired with the rich dressing allows the sweet crab flavor to take center stage.
5. Caprese Salad
For an Italian-inspired salad pairing, try a Caprese salad. Alternate thick slices of fresh mozzarella cheese with thick slices of vine-ripened tomatoes. Tuck chunks of the crab salad in between the slices. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic reduction. Top with fresh basil leaves and season with salt and pepper. The milky mozzarella, sweet tomatoes and bright basil bring out the sweetness and delicate flavor of the crab salad.
6. Waldorf Salad
A Waldorf salad is a crab lover’s dream. To make this salad, combine chopped apples, celery, seedless grapes, and toasted walnuts. Add chunks of crab salad over the top. For dressing, a creamy mayonnaise or yogurt based dressing works best. The sweet apples, grapes, and nuts pair perfectly with the rich crab. Celery adds welcome crunch. And you can’t go wrong with the classic creamy dressing.
7. Cobb Salad
For hearty crab-lover’s salad, try a Cobb salad. Start with chopped romaine lettuce as the base. Next add rows of diced chicken, tomatoes, bacon, hard-boiled egg, avocado and blue cheese crumbles. Place chunks of the crab salad over the top. For dressing, a red wine vinaigrette works well. The interplay of flavors and textures, from the smoky bacon to the creamy avocado is delightful with the crab salad.
With so many salad possibilities, there are endless ways to pair crisp greens and fresh vegetables with sweet crab salad. Whether you prefer a classic green salad or something more elaborate like a Cobb or Waldorf, crab salad is always a welcome addition. Experiment with different lettuces, mix-ins, and dressings to find your perfect crab salad pairing. Just keep the ingredients fresh and flavors simple to let the crab shine. With these seven salads, you’re sure find a winning match for your crab salad.
Classic Crab Salad Ingredients
Some people like to add all sorts of fancy stuff to their crab salad (onions, dill, chopped cucumber, cumin, dijon mustard, etc.) but, I like my crab salad SUPER simple. Not to say that the above mentioned add-ins are bad, they just alter the taste too much in my opinion. If you want to add any extras, feel free. As mentioned above, we would serve this in the restaurant I worked at in Hawaii and it was always a crowd favorite. Everyone wanted to know the secret to why it was so good, and really, there was no secret at all! It is the easiest, most simple crab salad recipe ever. Here’s what I use:
- Imitation crab meat (or real crab meat): Ironically, most crab salad (including this recipe) isn’t made from actual crab. Most crab salad is made from imitation crab meat (aka “krab meat” or “surimi”). It is more commonly found than actual crab meat and is much cheaper. Imitation crab meat is often found in California Rolls or simply eaten on its own as a snack.
- Celery: Celery adds a nice crunch to the salad. If you want the flavor without the crunch, add use celery seed seasoning.
- Mayonnaise: Best Foods Mayonnaise (aka Hellmann’s for you East Coasters) is my go-to brand. I have also had success with Duke’s and Kewpie mayo.
- Lemon Juice: This gives the dressing a little burst of citrus. Use fresh squeezed if you can.
- Seasonings: Fresh dill, salt, and pepper.
- Optional ingredients: onions, chopped cucumber, cumin, dijon mustard (see more add in options below).
Imitation Crab Meat vs Real Crab Meat
This is a huge debate. Of course if you make this with real crab it is going to taste the best. But have you noticed the price of real crab the past few years? It’s outrageous! It’s really up to you if you want to spend the extra money. We made this crab salad with fresh crab at the Oregon coast last year and it was absolutely delicious! It was just a little expensive. If you are looking for a cheaper alternative, imitation crab might be the best way to go.
CRAB SALAD that’s super easy and a lunchtime favorite!
FAQ
What salad goes well with crab?
Grilled Peach-And-Arugula Salad With Feta
This salad is the ideal pairing for crab legs because it can be prepared right beside your grill. Ripe summer peaches receive a delicious char before they’re tossed in a honey and Dijon vinaigrette with bitter arugula, nutty pistachios and tangy feta cheese.
What pairs nicely with crab?
- Dipping Sauces. Other than butter, you can create all sorts of sauces to serve with crab. …
- Lemon Rice. Another side option is a lemon rice pilaf. …
- Fresh Salad. …
- Roasted Vegetables. …
- Potatoes. …
- Corn. …
- Wine. …
- Dessert.
What salad pairs with seafood?
- Arugula & Citrus Salad. Pairs with: Scallops, crab cakes, smoked salmon. …
- Mango & Avocado Salad. Pairs well with: Seared tuna, coconut shrimp, grilled mahi-mahi. …
- Mediterranean Greek Salad. …
- Warm Potato & Green Bean Salad. …
- Cucumber & Dill Yogurt Salad.
What side dish goes with the crab feast?
The Must Have Sides!
Corn on the Cob – Fresh from the field corn on the cob is a must have for the Maryland Crab Feast. Whether you eat it plain for slathered in butter, be sure to liberally sprinkle the Old Bay on the kernels!