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Classic Lump Crab Salad Sandwich Recipe

Three stacked halves of a rich crab salad sandwich overflowing with creamy filling on toasted bread.

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Make a delicious, creamy lump crab salad filling and serve it on toasted bread for a satisfying lunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound lump crab meat, picked over for shells
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped celery
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 8 slices sourdough or brioche bread
  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened
  • Lettuce leaves (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, gently combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth. This is your creamy base.
  2. Add the picked-over lump crab meat, chopped celery, red onion, and fresh dill to the bowl.
  3. Use a rubber spatula to gently fold the ingredients together. Do not overmix; you want to keep the lumps of crab intact.
  4. Cover the bowl and chill the crab salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to blend.
  5. When ready to assemble the best crab salad sandwich, lightly butter one side of each slice of bread.
  6. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the bread, butter-side down, onto the skillet. Toast for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
  7. Place a lettuce leaf on four slices of the toasted bread, if using.
  8. Spoon half of the cold crab salad filling onto each of the four bottom slices.
  9. Top with the remaining bread slices to complete your fresh crab sandwich ideas.

Notes

  • For a deli style crab salad, you can substitute imitation crab (surimi) for the lump crab meat, but be sure to shred it finely before mixing.
  • If you prefer a lighter dressing, substitute half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
  • Serve immediately with a pickle spear or potato chips for a complete meal.

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