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Crab Salad with Asian Herb Dressing

Zesty Crab Salad with Asian Herb Dressing for Summer Bliss

This Crab Salad with Asian Herb Dressing is a refreshing dish that embodies summer with fresh crab meat and aromatic herbs.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup White crab meat Fresh crab is ideal for sweetness; canned crab can work in a pinch but will differ in flavor.
  • 1 medium Lebanese cucumber Offers a refreshing crunch; substitute English cucumber if needed.
  • 1 small Red onion Adds a mild sweetness; use shallots for a sweeter, less pungent flavor.
  • to taste Salt Enhances all the flavors; adjust to taste.
  • 1 cup Coriander leaves Fresh herb ideal for garnish and flavor; parsley can substitute if needed.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon juice Brightens the dish with acidity; lime juice makes a suitable alternative.
For the Dressing
  • 2 tablespoons Sesame oil Adds important nuttiness to the dressing; light olive oil can substitute for a different flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Garlic paste Provides depth of flavor; fresh minced garlic is a great substitute.
  • 1 cup Chopped coriander leaves Intensifies the herbal notes of the dressing.
  • 1/4 cup Mint leaves Adds freshness and aroma; basil can be an alternative.
  • 1 small Green chilli Introduces heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance or omit for a milder salad.
  • 1 tablespoon Jaggery/palm sugar Balances acidity with sweetness; brown sugar can also work here.
  • 1 tablespoon Fish sauce Offers umami flavors; feel free to omit for a vegetarian version.
Serving Options
  • 4 Mini masala pappads Serve on these for delightful crunch; plain pappads or crispy crackers can also work.
  • to taste Kashmiri chilli powder Use it for garnish to add color and a hint of mild heat.
  • 1 lemon Lemon slices Serve as garnish to enhance freshness and create beautiful presentation.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • pot
  • whisk
  • spatula
  • Serving bowl

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Crab Meat: If using whole crabs, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the crabs and boil for about 10 minutes until they're fully cooked and bright red. Carefully remove the crabs and let them cool. Once cool, pick the meat from the shells, ensuring no shell pieces remain, and set it aside in a bowl.
  2. Chop the Vegetables: While the crab meat cools, prepare the fresh vegetables. Dice the Lebanese cucumber and thinly slice the red onion. Gently mix the cucumber and onion together in a large mixing bowl, ensuring they are well-distributed for even flavor.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, sesame oil, garlic paste, chopped coriander leaves, mint leaves, finely chopped green chili, jaggery, and fish sauce. Mix all ingredients until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Pour about three-quarters of the prepared dressing over the bowl of crab meat, cucumber, and onion. Carefully fold everything together using a spatula, ensuring the crab and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing without breaking the crab meat.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the mixed salad to a serving bowl or plate. Drizzle any remaining dressing on top for added flavor and visual appeal. Garnish with additional coriander leaves and sprinkle a touch of Kashmiri chili powder for color and mild heat.
  6. Add Lemon Wedges: Slice fresh lemons into wedges and arrange them on the side of the salad. This adds a pop of color and allows guests to squeeze some extra citrus over their servings.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 10mg

Notes

This Crab Salad with Asian Herb Dressing is best enjoyed chilled; prepare it ahead of time but assemble just before serving to keep it fresh.

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