Crab Meat Salad

Crab Meat Salad Recipe from Guyana - Grapefruit, Avocado, and Lettuce

Region / culture: Guyana | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Servings: 2

Introduction

Crab Meat Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The combination of juicy crab meat, creamy avocado, and tangy citrus flavors makes this salad a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

Crab Meat Salad has been a popular dish for many years, especially in coastal regions where fresh seafood is abundant. The combination of crab meat and citrus fruits has been a classic pairing in many cuisines around the world.

Ingredients

0.25 cup of grapefruit juice
2 tbsp of lemon juice
2 tbsp of olive oil
1 tbsp of mayonnaise
salt and hot pepper to taste
8 oz (227 g) of flaked crab meat
2 small avocados, cut in half
lettuce leaves for serving
0.5 cup of grapefruit slices

How to prepare

In a bowl, combine the juices, oil, mayonnaise, and seasonings to taste.
Set aside 2 tbsp of the above mixture and mix the remaining mixture with the crab meat.
Fill the avocados' cavities with the salad and serve on a bed of lettuce, garnished with grapefruit slices.
Drizzle the remaining mixture over the salad.

Variations

Add diced mango or pineapple for a tropical twist.
Substitute shrimp or lobster for the crab meat for a different flavor profile.
Mix in some diced red onion or bell pepper for added crunch and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use fresh crab meat for the best flavor and texture.

- Adjust the amount of hot pepper to suit your taste preferences.

- Make sure to thoroughly mix the dressing with the crab meat to ensure that each bite is well-coated.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Crab Meat Salad on a bed of fresh lettuce leaves for a light and refreshing meal. Pair it with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to thoroughly mix the dressing with the crab meat to ensure that each bite is well-coated.

- Use a gentle hand when flaking the crab meat to avoid breaking it into small pieces.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use lime juice instead of lemon juice for a slightly different citrus flavor.

- Substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise for a lighter dressing option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dressing and flake the crab meat ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the salad. Just be sure to wait to cut the avocado until serving to prevent browning.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Crab Meat Salad in the hollowed-out avocado halves for a beautiful and elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Crab Meat Salad with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, to complement the citrus flavors and creamy avocado.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Crab Meat Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Be sure to store the avocado separately to prevent it from browning. Enjoy cold or at room temperature.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Crab Meat Salad contains approximately 300 calories, making it a light and healthy meal option.

Carbohydrates

Crab Meat Salad is a low-carb dish, with only a small amount of carbohydrates coming from the grapefruit juice and avocado.

Fats

The main source of fats in this recipe comes from the olive oil and mayonnaise. These healthy fats are essential for a balanced diet and provide a rich and creamy texture to the salad.

Proteins

Crab meat is a great source of protein, making this salad a satisfying and filling meal. Each serving contains a good amount of protein to help keep you full and energized.

Vitamins and minerals

Crab meat is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium. The avocado in this salad also provides a good dose of vitamins E, K, and C.

Alergens

This recipe contains shellfish (crab) and eggs (mayonnaise), which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before preparing this dish.

Summary

Overall, Crab Meat Salad is a nutritious and well-balanced meal option, providing a good mix of protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Crab Meat Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. With its combination of juicy crab meat, creamy avocado, and tangy citrus flavors, this salad is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I discovered this recipe for Crab Meat Salad. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small coastal town. My family was always involved in the local fishing industry, so we always had an abundance of fresh seafood at our disposal.

One summer day, my grandmother decided to take me out crabbing with her. We spent the morning out on the boat, dropping traps and pulling in the day's catch. I was in awe of the beautiful blue waters and the thrill of reeling in the crabs.

Back at home, my grandmother set to work preparing a delicious Crab Meat Salad for lunch. She showed me how to carefully pick the meat from the crab shells, being sure to remove any bits of shell or cartilage. She then mixed the crab meat with crisp celery, tangy lemon juice, and a dollop of creamy mayonnaise. The result was a light and refreshing salad that tasted of the sea.

As we sat down to eat, my grandmother told me the story of how she had learned to make Crab Meat Salad. She explained that she had first tasted it at a family gathering many years ago, and had immediately fallen in love with the flavors. She had asked the host for the recipe, and had been making it ever since.

Over the years, my grandmother shared the recipe with me, and I have continued to make it for my own family and friends. Each time I prepare the salad, I am reminded of that summer day out on the boat with my grandmother, learning the art of crabbing and cooking from the best.

The recipe for Crab Meat Salad has become a beloved tradition in our family, passed down through the generations. It is a dish that always brings back memories of sunny days by the sea, and the simple joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.

I am grateful to my grandmother for introducing me to this delicious recipe, and for instilling in me a love of cooking and sharing food with others. The Crab Meat Salad will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the bond between generations and the joy of creating something beautiful and delicious with our own two hands.