Description
This vibrant and refreshing seafood salad combines tender shrimp and imitation crab meat with a zesty lemon and dill mayonnaise dressing. Perfect for a quick and delicious lunch or light dinner, it is seasoned with Old Bay and fresh vegetables for a burst of flavor. Ready in just 15 minutes, this salad can be enjoyed immediately or chilled for enhanced taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 8 ounces imitation crab meat, flaked or sliced
- 8 ounces raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
Produce
- 1 lemon, quartered
- ½ cup celery, finely diced
- 3 tablespoons red onion, minced
- 1½ tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Seasonings & Condiments
- ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup mayonnaise
Instructions
- Cook the Shrimp: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the quartered lemon for extra flavor. Add the shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes, until they turn pink and opaque. Immediately transfer the shrimp to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain and pat dry.
- Combine the Salad: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked shrimp (chopped if preferred), imitation crab meat, finely diced celery, minced red onion, Old Bay seasoning, fresh lemon juice, mayonnaise, and chopped fresh dill. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated and well combined. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Chill & Serve: Garnish the salad with extra fresh dill for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately for a fresh taste or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days to allow flavors to meld and deepen.
Notes
- Cooking shrimp briefly ensures they remain tender and juicy without becoming rubbery.
- Using lemon quarters in the boiling water infuses a subtle citrus aroma into the shrimp.
- Chilling the salad enhances the flavor fusion but can be served immediately if preferred.
- Adjust Old Bay seasoning and salt to taste depending on your preference.
- This salad is perfect for summer picnics or as a light meal on warm days.
