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Creamy Crab Pasta Salad


  • Author: Ava Garrison
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

Looking for a quick lunch, a light dinner idea, or a refreshing side for your next cookout? This Creamy Crab Pasta Salad is your answer. Packed with tender pasta, sweet imitation or lump crab meat, crisp veggies, and a luscious creamy dressing, this dish is a winner on every table. It’s one of those food ideas that checks all the boxes: an easy recipe, full of flavor, and perfect for hot summer days. With bright herbs, a touch of lemon, and a satisfying texture in every bite, this salad will quickly become one of your go-to easy dinner or healthy snack options. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a crowd, it delivers every time.


Ingredients

  • 12 oz rotini pasta
  • 12 oz imitation crab meat (or lump crab, chopped)
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion or green onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini and cook until al dente (about 8–10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream or yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder (if using), salt, and pepper.
  3. Chop crab meat into bite-sized chunks. Dice celery and onions. Chop fresh herbs.
  4. Add cooked pasta, crab meat, celery, onions, and herbs to the bowl with the dressing.
  5. Gently mix everything together until well combined and evenly coated.
  6. Chill the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning or add a splash of milk/lemon juice if needed.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Chill Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes