Fresh Cucumber and Crab Salad

This refreshing cucumber and crab salad is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. Combining fresh cucumbers, crab sticks or shrimp, and hard-boiled eggs, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying. The creamy dressing of mayonnaise, sour cream, or yogurt, elevated by the subtle kick of mustard, brings all the flavors together in harmony. A touch of salt and fresh herbs like scallions or parsley adds a layer of freshness to every bite. This salad is quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy days or last-minute gatherings. It's versatile enough to serve as a side dish or a light main course. With its bright, colorful ingredients, this salad will surely enhance the presentation of your table. You can play around with the elements and make it your own by adding different proteins or spices. Enjoy this salad fresh or chilled, perfect for warm-weather enjoyment or a touch of brightness on cooler days.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2-3 fresh cucumbers
200 g crab sticks or 300 g shrimp
5 hard-boiled eggs
Mayonnaise, sour cream, or yogurt - to taste

Sauces and Spices

Mustard
Salt, if needed
Fresh herbs (scallions, parsley)

Preparation Time

25 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by washing and slicing the fresh cucumbers into thin rounds. **Aim for a consistent thickness** to ensure even texture throughout the salad.
Place a **layer of sliced cucumbers** in the bottom of the salad bowl. This forms the base of your salad.
In a separate bowl, **mix your choice of mayonnaise, sour cream, or yogurt** as a creamy dressing. Add a small amount of mustard for a zesty kick, and blend until smooth.
Drizzle a bit of the creamy dressing over the cucumber layer. Be cautious not to overdo it; a light coat will suffice.
Peel and slice the hard-boiled eggs. Arrange the sliced eggs over the cucumber layer.
Again, spread a layer of the creamy dressing over the eggs, ensuring each piece is lightly coated.
Take the crab sticks or shrimp and chop them into bite-sized pieces. For shrimp, ensure they are cooked and peeled.
Arrange the chopped crab sticks or shrimp as the final layer atop the salad.
Garnish the salad generously with fresh herbs. **Scallions or parsley** work well for their bright flavor.
Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
You can serve the salad immediately if preferred, especially if you enjoy it at room temperature.
**Taste the salad**, and if needed, add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
For added taste, consider sprinkling a few drops of lemon juice just before serving.
If you prefer more creaminess, add an extra spoonful of dressing right before serving.
**Take a moment** to appreciate the vibrant colors and fresh aroma of the salad before serving.
Pair this salad with a light, crispy bread or a side of grilled vegetables.

Tips

To make the salad lighter, substitute some or all of the mayonnaise with yogurt.
For an added crunch, consider tossing in some sliced almonds or walnuts.
Use ripe avocados for a creamy texture boost instead of mayonnaise.

Nutrition

Approximate per serving: Calories: 280, Protein: 18g, Fats: 20g, Carbs: 10g.

Variations

Swap crab sticks for real crab meat for a more luxurious twist.
Include some diced bell peppers for extra color and crunch.
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with warm, toasted bread or crackers.
Garnish with edible flowers for an elevated presentation.
Pair with a glass of light white wine or sparkling water with lemon.

Best Places

The Crab Shack - Famous for its seafood dishes and cozy ambiance. Location: Tybee Island, Georgia, USA.
Sushi & Beyond - Offers an exquisite range of seafood salads and sushi. Location: 127 Upper Street, London, UK.
Nautical Delights - Known for its fresh and creative seafood creations. Location: Marine Drive, Mumbai, India.
Ocean's Bounty - A top choice for seafood aficionados. Location: Sydney Harbour, Sydney, Australia.
Mariscos Mazatlan - Renowned for traditional Mexican seafood recipes. Location: Cancun, Mexico.
Kai Restaurant - Offers Hawaiian flavors and fresh seafood. Location: Honolulu, Hawaii, USA.
Seashell Inn - A charming spot with excellent seafood dishes. Location: Nice, France.
Blue Fish Bistro - Combines modern recipes with traditional seafood. Location: Tokyo, Japan.
Pescatore Palace - Luxurious dining with top-notch seafood. Location: Rome, Italy.
The Marine Table - Offers breathtaking views and fantastic seafood. Location: Cape Town, South Africa.