Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something fresh, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This crab and avocado salad recipe is your answer. It’s a perfect blend of creamy avocado, succulent crab meat, and a vibrant citrus dressing, making it an ideal healthy meal, quick dinner idea, or a delightful appetizer for any occasion. This easy recipe requires minimal cooking, making it perfect for a busy weeknight. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking with this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Tortilla chips or crackers for serving
Instructions:
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Prepare the ingredients: Gently rinse the crab meat to remove any stray shells. Dice the avocados, finely chop the red onion, and halve the cherry tomatoes. Chop the cilantro.
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Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
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Combine the salad: In a large bowl, gently combine the crab meat, avocado, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro.
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Dress the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Be careful not to overmix, as the avocado can become mushy.
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Serve immediately: Enjoy your crab and avocado salad immediately for the best flavor and texture. Serve it on its own, or with tortilla chips or crackers for a more substantial meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Crab and Avocado Salad:
- Choose ripe avocados: Select avocados that yield to gentle pressure but aren't overly soft. Overripe avocados will be mushy.
- Don't overmix: Gently toss the salad to avoid mashing the avocados.
- Taste and adjust: Adjust the seasoning to your liking. You may want to add more lime juice, salt, or pepper depending on your preference.
- Add some heat: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing.
Variations:
- Add some crunch: Incorporate chopped celery, jicama, or bell peppers for added texture.
- Spice it up: Include a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper for a spicy twist.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve the salad over a bed of mixed greens or quinoa for a more filling dish.
- Seafood swap: Substitute the crab meat with cooked shrimp or lobster for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This crab and avocado salad is a fantastic example of a healthy meal that's both delicious and easy to prepare. It’s a perfect quick dinner idea, a great addition to your best recipes collection, and a testament to how simple, fresh ingredients can create truly satisfying and flavorful food. Enjoy!