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Creamy Cajun Crab Pasta Salad

Creamy Cajun Crab Pasta Salad for a Zesty Summer Treat

Enjoy a refreshing and flavorful Creamy Cajun Crab Pasta Salad, perfect for summer gatherings and BBQs.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 32 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 300 g penne pasta Cook it al dente for the perfect bite.
  • 250 g lump crab meat Use fresh for best flavor or canned for convenience.
  • 1 cup bell peppers (diced) Any color works.
  • 0.5 cup red onion (finely chopped) Green onions can be used for a milder flavor.
  • 0.5 cup celery (diced) Optional for a smoother salad.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup mayonnaise Can substitute with Greek yogurt.
  • 0.5 cup sour cream Replace with more mayonnaise or yogurt if preferred.
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Adjust according to taste.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice Fresh makes a noticeable difference.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Use fresh garlic for a bolder taste.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Consider smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
  • Salt and pepper to taste Essential for flavor enhancement.
For Garnish
  • Fresh parsley Optional but recommended.
  • Extra paprika For appealing garnish.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • colander
  • whisk
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 300 g of penne pasta and cook it for about 10-12 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1/2 cup of sour cream, 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of paprika. Whisk until smooth.
  3. Gently fold in the cooled pasta, 250 g crab meat, 1 cup bell peppers, 1/2 cup red onion, and 1/2 cup celery into the dressing until all ingredients are coated.
  4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
  5. Before serving, stir gently and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with parsley and extra paprika.
  6. Serve chilled in a large bowl or individual servings. Perfect for summer gatherings!

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 8mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Best consumed fresh, not suitable for freezing as the creamy dressing may separate.

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