Description

Craving a quick, satisfying dish that checks every box for flavor and ease? This Creamy Crab Pasta Salad is the answer! It’s one of those perfect food ideas that works as a quick lunch, a chilled dinner side, or a go-to for gatherings. This easy recipe blends tender rotini pasta with creamy, tangy dressing and sweet chunks of crab meat. Whether you’re looking for summer picnic ideas, easy dinner recipes, or cold meal prep for lunch, this pasta salad delivers on all fronts.

Rich yet refreshing, the creamy base wraps around every spiral of pasta, ensuring no bite is bland. Plus, the bright parsley and optional crunchy veggies keep it lively and light. It’s a great way to impress without spending hours in the kitchen—and it stores well too!

Ingredients

12 oz rotini pasta

1 lb imitation crab meat, chopped

1 cup mayonnaise

1/2 cup sour cream

2 tbsp lemon juice

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Optional: diced celery or red onion

Instructions

Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Season dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
Add cooled pasta and chopped crab meat to the bowl. Mix gently.
Stir in parsley and any optional veggies like celery or red onion.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Stir before serving. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Category: Dinner