Are you a seafood lover looking for creative ways to incorporate imitation crab into your meals? Look no further! Imitation crab, also known as surimi, has become a popular alternative to traditional seafood due to its affordability and versatility. With its neutral flavor profile and tender texture, it’s the perfect canvas for a wide range of flavors and ingredients.
In this article, we’ll dive into 18 delicious imitation crab recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic salads and sushi rolls to creative twists like stuffed mushrooms and rangoon, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Whether you’re a busy home cook or a seasoned chef, these recipes will inspire you to get creative with imitation crab and take your meals to the next level.
Creamy Imitation Crab Salad
A delicious and creamy imitation crab salad that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With its subtle seafood flavor, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package of imitation crab meat (such as surimi)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped yellow onion
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the imitation crab meat, mayonnaise, red bell pepper, yellow onion, and Dijon mustard.
2. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold salad recipe.
Imitation Crab Sushi Rolls
A delicious and easy-to-make sushi roll recipe featuring imitation crab, perfect for a quick snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of imitation crab meat (flaked)
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup sushi vinegar
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– Sesame seeds and soy sauce for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Mix the cooked rice with water, and then add sushi vinegar. Stir well.
3. Cut the nori sheet into desired size for rolling.
4. Place a thin layer of sushi rice onto the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Add the imitation crab meat on top of the rice, spreading it evenly.
6. Roll the sushi using gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
7. Slice into individual pieces and serve with soy sauce and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including prep time)
Spicy Imitation Crab Dip
Spicy Imitation Crab Dip Recipe
Get ready to spice up your snack game with this creamy and addictive Spicy Imitation Crab Dip! Made with a blend of flavors, including sweet crab meat, tangy cream cheese, and spicy heat, this dip is perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container imitation crab meat
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine crab meat, cream cheese, mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or small cast-iron skillet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is warm and bubbly.
5. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, if desired.
6. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Imitation Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this savory and indulgent recipe featuring imitation crab meat stuffed into earthy mushroom caps.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 package of imitation crab meat (flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of butter, softened
– 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together imitation crab meat, softened butter, and breadcrumbs until well combined.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the crab mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top of each stuffed mushroom.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Imitation Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Elevate your seafood game with this easy-to-make recipe for imitation crab cakes, served with a tangy and creamy lemon aioli. This flavorful combination is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of imitation crab meat (flaked)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lemon Aioli ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine imitation crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning. Mix until well combined.
3. Divide mixture into 6-8 portions and shape each portion into a ball. Flatten slightly to form patties.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook crab cakes for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve hot with Lemon Aioli (mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, and garlic clove).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Imitation Crab and Avocado Salad
A refreshing and light salad that combines the creaminess of avocado with the savory taste of imitation crab.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup imitation crab meat (flaked)
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced avocado, imitation crab meat, red bell pepper, and cucumber.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the salad and toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Imitation Crab Louie Salad
Experience the classic flavors of a Louie salad with a twist – using imitation crab instead of real crab meat!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup imitation crab meat, flaked
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and imitation crab meat.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with feta cheese and parsley.
3. Squeeze lemon juice over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Imitation Crab and Corn Chowder
This comforting chowder is a twist on the classic seafood soup, featuring imitation crab meat and sweet corn. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup imitation crab meat (flaked)
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in imitation crab meat and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add corn kernels, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Imitation Crab Rangoon
This recipe takes the traditional crab rangoon and gives it a twist by using imitation crab meat. The result is a creamy, savory, and indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 8 oz imitation crab meat
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon green onions, chopped
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the imitation crab meat, cream cheese, soy sauce, green onions, and sesame oil until well combined.
3. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface and place about 1 tablespoon of the crab mixture in the center.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
5. Brush the edges with a little water and press the seam together to seal.
6. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
7. Place the rangoon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Imitation Crab Pasta Salad
A refreshing summer pasta salad featuring imitation crab, perfect for a quick and easy meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, bowtie)
– 1/2 cup imitation crab meat
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine imitation crab meat, red bell pepper, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar. Pour dressing over the seafood mixture and toss to coat.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Imitation Crab and Cucumber Bites
Elevate your snack game with these refreshing bites that combine the creaminess of imitation crab with the crunch of cucumbers. Perfect for a quick appetizer or party favor!
Ingredients:
– 1 package imitation crab meat, flaked
– 2 medium cucumbers, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil for assembling
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together imitation crab meat, soy sauce, and mayonnaise until well combined.
2. Place a cucumber round on a flat surface.
3. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the crab mixture onto the center of the cucumber.
4. Sprinkle with green onions (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Fold the cucumber in half over the filling to form a triangle or square shape.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Assemble and serve chilled.
Imitation Crab Fried Rice
A classic Chinese-inspired dish gets a seafood twist with this Imitation Crab Fried Rice recipe. Crispy fried rice, savory imitation crab, and scallions come together in a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup imitation crab meat, flaked
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, imitation crab meat, soy sauce, and salt. Cook until the rice is heated through and starting to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Imitation Crab and Cheese Omelette
A delicious twist on the classic omelette, this recipe combines the savory flavors of imitation crab with melted cheese for a satisfying breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup imitation crab meat (flaked)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 tablespoon grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt.
2. Heat the butter in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and cook until the edges start to set (about 30 seconds).
4. Sprinkle the imitation crab meat and grated cheese evenly over half of the omelette.
5. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half of the omelette over the filling.
6. Cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, until the cheese is melted and the eggs are cooked through.
7. Slide the omelette out of the skillet onto a plate and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Imitation Crab and Mango Ceviche
Transform the classic ceviche recipe with a sweet and tangy twist by combining imitation crab, juicy mango, and zesty lime juice. This refreshing dish is perfect for hot summer days or as a unique appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup imitation crab meat
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine imitation crab meat and mango.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture, making sure everything is coated evenly.
3. Stir in chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: None (raw ingredients)
Imitation Crab Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory taste of imitation crab meat.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1/2 cup imitation crab meat (flaked)
– 1/4 cup cooked rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together imitation crab meat, cooked rice, olive oil, chopped onion, garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the crab-rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed bell peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Imitation Crab and Spinach Quiche
A creamy quiche filled with imitation crab, spinach, and a blend of cheeses – perfect for a satisfying brunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup imitation crab meat
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch (23 cm) tart pan.
3. In a bowl, mix together imitation crab meat, spinach, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, eggs, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is golden brown and set.
6. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Imitation Crab and Shrimp Scampi
This recipe combines the flavors of imitation crab and shrimp with garlic, butter, and lemon for a mouthwatering scampi dish that’s ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup imitation crab meat
– 1/2 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the imitation crab meat and cook until heated through, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the cooked shrimp and stir to combine.
5. Pour in the white wine (if using) and lemon juice. Stir to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or dill.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Imitation Crab and Cream Cheese Wontons
Elevate your snack game with these scrumptious Imitation Crab and Cream Cheese Wontons! A perfect blend of creamy cheese, sweet crab, and crispy wonton wrappers will become your new addiction.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 8 oz imitation crab meat, flaked
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or wok with about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flaked crab meat, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix until well combined.
3. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the crab-cheese mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Fry wontons in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total, including frying time.
Summary
Discover the flavors of the sea with these 18 mouth-watering imitation crab recipes! From classic dishes like Creamy Imitation Crab Salad and Imitation Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli, to innovative creations like Spicy Imitation Crab Dip and Imitation Crab Rangoon, there’s something for every seafood lover. Enjoy the versatility of imitation crab in pasta salads, sushi rolls, stuffed mushrooms, and more. Get creative with flavors like lemon, avocado, mango, and cheese, and impress your friends and family with these easy-to-make and deliciously satisfying recipes.