Name: Crab Pasta Salad Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pkg. (16 oz.) medium pasta shells (or other short pasta shape); ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt; ¾ cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning; 1 teaspoon dried dill; 16 oz. cooked crab or imitation crab meat, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 ½ cups celery, finely chopped (about 3 stalks); 1 cup frozen peas, thawed (briefly rinsed under hot water); 1 cup diced red bell pepper (1 bell pepper); ½ cup red onion, finely chopped (¼ large onion)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 78 reviews

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that perfectly balances fresh seafood flavors with creamy, zesty dressing, this Crab Pasta Salad Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines tender pasta shells with succulent crab meat, crisp vegetables, and a tangy Old Bay-spiced dressing that will brighten up any meal or gathering. Whether you’re planning a picnic, potluck, or just a satisfying weeknight dinner, this salad delivers on taste, texture, and pure satisfaction every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a collection of small white bowls on a white marbled surface, each filled with different ingredients arranged in a neat grid. From top left to bottom right, there is a bowl of small yellow pasta shells, a ¼ cup bowl of finely chopped purple onions, a clear bowl with creamy white yogurt, a small bowl of light yellow mayonnaise, a clear bowl with finely chopped green celery, a small clear bowl with light yellow lemon juice, a 1 cup bowl filled with bright green peas, a small white bowl with light brown seasoning, a small white bowl filled with green dried herbs, a clear bowl with diced crab sticks that are white and red, and a clear bowl filled with finely chopped red bell pepper. The composition is clean and organized, with all ingredients clearly visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Crab Pasta Salad Recipe truly starts with simple, wholesome ingredients that each bring their own special contribution. From the creamy dressing to the colorful vegetables, every component plays a vital role in shaping the salad’s vibrant flavor and irresistible texture.

Medium pasta shells (16 oz.): These hold onto the dressing perfectly, making every bite flavorful and satisfying.
Plain Greek yogurt (¾ cup): Adds a creamy tang and a healthier twist to the dressing.
Mayonnaise (¾ cup): Provides richness and smoothness to the salad’s base.
Freshly squeezed lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Brings a bright citrus note that lifts the flavors.
Old Bay seasoning (2 teaspoons): Packs the salad with that iconic, spicy seafood flavor.
Dried dill (1 teaspoon): Infuses the dressing with a subtle herbal freshness.
Cooked crab or imitation crab meat (16 oz.): The star of the dish — tender, flaky, and delicious seafood goodness.
Celery, finely chopped (1 ½ cups): Adds a welcome crunch and fresh green color.
Frozen peas, thawed (1 cup): Sweetness and pop of color enhance the salad’s appeal.
Diced red bell pepper (1 cup): Brings sweetness and a lovely red hue.
Red onion, finely chopped (½ cup): Offers a sharp bite that balances the creamy dressing.

How to Make Crab Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the medium pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente—meaning tender but still with a slight bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse under cold water until completely cooled. This cooling step stops cooking and keeps your pasta perfectly firm for the salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, freshly squeezed lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, and dried dill until smooth and creamy. This dressing is where all those layers of flavor come alive, balancing tang, creaminess, and just the right amount of spice. Taste it and feel free to adjust the Old Bay, lemon juice, or dill if you want more kick or brightness.

Step 3: Add the Salad Ingredients

To your dressing bowl, add the cooled pasta shells, bite-sized crab pieces, finely chopped celery, thawed peas, diced red bell pepper, and red onion. Mixing all these ingredients together allows the salad to develop its wonderful combination of textures — crunchy, tender, and sweet — all perfectly coated in that flavorful dressing.

Step 4: Combine and Chill

Gently stir the salad to ensure every spoonful is bursting with flavor. After mixing, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour. Allowing the crab pasta salad to chill helps the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that tastes even better than when first mixed.

How to Serve Crab Pasta Salad Recipe

A clear glass bowl is filled with a colorful mixture of finely chopped vegetables. The bottom layer has pale green celery pieces with a crunchy texture. On top of the celery, there is a layer of bright green peas, round and smooth. The top two layers are made up of finely diced red bell peppers and small pieces of purple onion, each adding a vibrant red and purple color and a firm texture. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation and add an extra touch of freshness, sprinkle chopped fresh dill or parsley over the top just before serving. A few lemon wedges on the side not only brighten the plate but also give guests a chance to add a fresh squeeze of citrus to their salad.

Side Dishes

This Crab Pasta Salad Recipe shines alongside light, summery sides. Consider pairing it with crisp green salads, crusty bread, or grilled vegetables. It also works wonderfully as a hearty component at buffets or BBQs, balancing out smoky or rich meats with its refreshing seafood flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the salad in individual small bowls or hollowed-out bell peppers for a colorful, attractive presentation. You can even hollow out cucumbers or tomatoes and fill them with the salad for bite-sized, elegant appetizers that are sure to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Crab Pasta Salad tastes great even the next day, making it an ideal make-ahead dish. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days to maintain freshness and flavor integrity.

Freezing

This salad isn’t the best candidate for freezing due to the delicate texture of the crab meat and the creamy dressing, which may separate and change consistency. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.

Reheating

Since this is a cold pasta salad, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. If you prefer, just take the salad out of the fridge about 10-15 minutes before serving to take the chill off and allow the flavors to shine through.

FAQs

Can I use fresh crab instead of imitation crab meat?

Absolutely! Fresh crab will provide a richer, more authentic seafood flavor, but imitation crab is a convenient and budget-friendly option that still tastes fantastic in this salad.

Is it possible to make this salad vegan or vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, you could omit the crab and add more vegetables like artichoke hearts or chickpeas. To go vegan, substitute the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives and choose a vegan Old Bay-style seasoning.

How long should I chill the salad before serving?

At least one hour of chilling is recommended for the flavors to meld properly, but if you can refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight, it’ll taste even better.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Medium pasta shells are perfect because their shape holds the dressing well, but you can also use other short shaped pasta like rotini, penne, or bow ties.

Can I prepare this salad a day in advance?

Definitely! Preparing this Crab Pasta Salad Recipe a day ahead is a smart idea to save time and allow the flavors to fully develop. Just ensure it stays refrigerated.

Final Thoughts

This Crab Pasta Salad Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and endlessly satisfying. With its vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and a perfect mix of creamy and crunchy elements, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again. So grab those ingredients and get ready to fall in love with your new favorite pasta salad!