Description
This Cajun Crab Pasta Salad is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines tender pasta, succulent crab meat, and a zesty Cajun dressing. Perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you want a taste of the bayou, this recipe is easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz pasta (rotini, fusilli, or bowtie)
- 1 lb lump crab meat, drained and picked over for shells
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped green onions, sliced avocado
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, chop the bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
- Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Cajun seasoning, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, hot sauce (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, crab meat, bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, black olives, and parsley.
- Add the Dressing: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Before serving, give the salad a quick toss. Top with chopped green onions and sliced avocado if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh vegetables and herbs for the best flavor.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the salad as you mix it and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more Cajun seasoning, salt, or pepper to suit your taste.
- Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the fridge for at least an hour helps the flavors meld together, making it even more delicious.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
Keywords: Cajun Crab Pasta Salad Recipe