Are you craving a dish that’s both light and satisfying? Look no further than our delightful recipe for Imitation Crab Pasta Salad. This refreshing pasta salad is perfect for a quick lunch, a picnic with friends, or even as a side dish for a family dinner. Packed with flavors and textures, this dish is sure to become one of your go-to recipes for any occasion. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious and easy-to-prepare Imitation Crab Pasta Salad!
**Ingredients:**
– 12 oz. bow-tie pasta
– 1 lb. imitation crab, flaked
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup celery, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/3 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Cook the bow-tie pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the flaked imitation crab, cherry tomatoes, red onion, celery, and fresh parsley to the bowl with the pasta.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta and crab mixture. Gently toss everything together until the dressing evenly coats all the ingredients.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Before serving, give the salad a final toss to make sure everything is well combined. Adjust the seasoning if needed with more salt and pepper.
7. Garnish with some extra chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
This Imitation Crab Pasta Salad is best served chilled and pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a leafy green salad. It’s a versatile dish that can be prepared ahead of time, making it ideal for meal prepping or bringing to potlucks and gatherings. The combination of the tender pasta, flaky imitation crab, and crisp veggies, all coated in a creamy and zesty dressing, creates a harmony of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds.
So, next time you’re looking for a simple yet delicious recipe to add to your collection, give this Imitation Crab Pasta Salad a try. It’s a fuss-free dish that will brighten up any mealtime and leave your taste buds satisfied. Enjoy the process of creating this savory salad and savor every bite with your loved ones. Happy cooking!
