Creamy Crab Pasta Salad – A Cool & Zesty Seafood Favorite!
If you're looking for the ultimate summer side dish or a light seafood-inspired main course, this Crab Pasta Salad is everything your taste buds have been waiting for. Creamy, tangy, loaded with herbs, and packed with fresh crunch and sweet seafood flavor — it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any picnic, potluck, or family dinner.
This easy-to-make dish features tender shell pasta, zesty lemon dressing, crisp veggies, and flaky crab meat all tossed together in a chilled, creamy bowl of perfection. It’s a refreshing spin on traditional pasta salad with a coastal twist!
🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make this creamy, savory salad:
- 12 oz small shell pasta
- 1¼ cups mayonnaise
- 2½ tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1½ tsp Old Bay seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- ⅓ cup dill pickles, finely chopped
- 12 oz imitation crab meat, chopped (or real crab if preferred)
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ⅓ cup green onions, sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil the small shell pasta in salted water according to the package instructions.
Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta completely. Set aside.
2. Make the Creamy Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Mayonnaise
- Fresh lemon juice
- Garlic powder
- Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper
This lemony, seasoned dressing will bring the salad together with that classic seafood-salad zing.
3. Add the Flavor Boosters
To the dressing, add:
- Fresh dill
- Chopped dill pickles
- Imitation crab meat (or lump crab if you’re feeling fancy)
- Celery
- Red onion
- Green onions
- Thawed peas
Stir gently until all ingredients are coated in the creamy mixture.
4. Combine with Pasta
Add the cooled pasta to the bowl and gently fold everything together. Make sure the pasta is fully coated with the dressing for maximum flavor in every bite.
5. Chill & Serve
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight) to let the flavors meld and the salad become perfectly chilled.
Before serving, garnish with extra fresh dill or green onions for a bright, fresh finish.
🌿 Tips for Success
- Use real crab if you want a more luxurious twist (though imitation works great for everyday meals).
- Don’t skip the chill time — it really makes a difference in taste and texture.
- Add-ins to try: chopped hard-boiled eggs, a pinch of cayenne, or a splash of pickle juice for extra zip.
🧊 Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect to prep the night before for parties or meal prep.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
This chilled crab pasta salad pairs perfectly with:
- Grilled chicken or shrimp
- Fresh baguette or dinner rolls
- Corn on the cob or grilled vegetables
- Lemon iced tea or white wine spritzers for a summer dinner vibe
💬 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re heading to the beach, throwing a BBQ, or just looking for a fast and satisfying weekday lunch, this Crab Pasta Salad brings together the flavors of summer in every creamy, herby, satisfying bite. It’s simple to make, easy to love, and sure to become a new favorite in your seasonal rotation.