Mediterranean Creamy Crab Pasta Salad
This Mediterranean Creamy Crab Pasta Salad is fresh, light, and packed with vibrant flavors. Tender bowtie pasta meets sweet, flaky crab meat, crisp cucumber, carrots, and dill, all tossed in a tangy, creamy dressing. The lemon juice and Dijon mustard give it that Mediterranean brightness, while the creamy base ties everything together. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a cool, satisfying summer meal.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time (optional): 30 minutes
Total Time: 25–40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
Salad
2 cups bowtie pasta (or small pasta of choice), cooked and cooled
2 cups imitation crab meat (surimi), chopped
1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
1 cup carrots, peeled and chopped
¼ cup red onion, finely diced (optional)
2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Creamy Dressing
¾ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and let cool completely.
Prepare the Dressing:
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Combine the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, chopped crab meat, cucumber, carrots, red onion, and fresh dill.
Add the Dressing:
Pour the creamy dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Chill and Serve:
For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra dill or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
Tips
Cool the pasta properly: Rinse under cold water right after cooking to stop the cooking process and prevent clumping.
Don’t overdress: Add half the dressing first, toss, then add more if needed — pasta absorbs sauce over time.
Use fresh herbs: Fresh dill adds that classic Mediterranean brightness; parsley or basil can also work.
Crab texture: Imitation crab (surimi) works great, but if you have real crab meat, it elevates the dish beautifully.
Add crunch: A handful of chopped celery or bell pepper adds extra texture.
Balance flavor: Taste before chilling — lemon juice and salt can be adjusted for brightness.
Serve cold: This salad tastes best after chilling, allowing flavors to meld.
Storage tip: Store in an airtight container for up to 2–3 days. Stir before serving again.
Variations
Mediterranean Twist: Add chopped kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes.
Protein Boost: Mix in boiled eggs or chickpeas for more substance.
Lighter Option: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a tangy, lower-fat version.
Zesty Upgrade: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a drizzle of olive oil to the dressing.
Seafood Mix: Combine shrimp or tuna with crab for a richer seafood blend.
Cheese Lovers: Sprinkle feta or grated Parmesan just before serving.
Green Boost: Toss in some baby spinach or arugula for color and freshness.
Pasta Alternatives: Try orzo, rotini, or penne if you prefer smaller or heartier shapes.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, it actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors develop.
Q: What if I don’t like mayonnaise?
A: Replace half or all of it with Greek yogurt or a light sour cream for a tangier, less creamy base.
Q: Can I use real crab meat?
A: Definitely. Lump or claw crab meat works perfectly and makes it more luxurious.
Q: How can I make it spicier?
A: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños for heat.
Q: What can I serve it with?
A: It pairs well with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Q: Can it be made dairy-free?
A: Yes — use a dairy-free yogurt or all-mayo dressing base.
Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
A: Up to 3 days in an airtight container. Stir before serving as the dressing may thicken.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 390
Protein: 16g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 720mg
Conclusion
Mediterranean Creamy Crab Pasta Salad is a refreshing blend of creamy, citrusy, and herb-filled goodness. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and perfect for warm-weather meals or gatherings. Each bite delivers cool pasta, tender crab, and crisp veggies in a light yet flavorful dressing — a crowd-pleasing dish that tastes like summer in a bowl.