Cajun Crab Pasta Salad
A vibrant salad that combines the bold flavors of Cajun spices and the sweetness of crab meat, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pasta and Crab Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (cooked; rotini or penne work best) Cook according to package instructions.
- 1 cup crab meat (fresh or canned)
Fresh Vegetables
- 1 piece bell pepper (finely chopped; red or yellow for sweetness)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved for juiciness)
- 1/4 cup red onion (finely diced for subtle sharpness)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped for freshness)
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for a spicy kick)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (feel free to adjust spice levels!)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 piece Juice of 1 lemon (for acidity)
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by cooking the pasta according to package instructions. Make sure to add salt to the boiling water to enhance flavor. Once cooked al dente, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Cajun seasoning, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooled pasta, crab meat, chopped bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold all the ingredients together.
Chilling
- Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving
- Once chilled, give the salad a final gentle toss to remix the ingredients before serving.
Notes
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Avoid adding the dressing until just before serving for best freshness.