Crab Pasta Salad Creamy Veggies (Printer-Friendly)

Sweet crab, tender pasta, and crisp vegetables in herbed dressing. Perfect chilled for gatherings or a refreshing lunch.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 12 ounces small shell pasta

→ Dressing

02 - 1 1/4 cups mayonnaise
03 - 2 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
04 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1 1/2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
06 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
08 - 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

→ Vegetables

09 - 1/3 cup dill pickles, finely chopped
10 - 1 cup celery, diced
11 - 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
12 - 1/3 cup green onions, thinly sliced
13 - 1 cup frozen peas, thawed

→ Seafood

14 - 12 ounces imitation crab meat, chopped or flaked

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the shell pasta until al dente following the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to halt cooking. Allow to cool completely.
02 - In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Fold in chopped fresh dill and finely chopped dill pickles.
03 - In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, chopped imitation crab, diced celery, finely chopped red onion, sliced green onions, and thawed peas.
04 - Add the prepared dressing to the pasta mixture and toss gently until all components are thoroughly coated.
05 - Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to develop.
06 - Stir the salad before plating to redistribute dressing. Serve well chilled.

# Helpful Hints:

01 - Chilling the salad for several hours enhances the flavor integration and overall texture.
02 - For extra crunch, use freshly sliced celery and onions.
03 - Adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice to taste before serving, if desired.
04 - Crab pasta salad will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.