Latvian Style Crab Salad with Champignons

This delightful Latvian-style crab salad with champignons is a refreshing and flavorful twist on a traditional favorite. Perfect for a light lunch or a side dish, this salad combines the delicate flavors of crab sticks with the earthy taste of champignons. Complemented by fresh vegetables like bell peppers and cucumbers, as well as sweet corn and green peas, this salad offers a burst of textures and colors. The creamy mayonnaise dressing ties all the ingredients together, creating a dish that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you're serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it on a summer day, this salad is sure to impress with its unique flavors. Follow this recipe for a taste of Latvian culinary tradition brought to life with fresh, simple ingredients. It's a perfect make-ahead dish, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious the next day. Enjoy it as is, or use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps for a quick meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 200 g rice
• 10 crab sticks
• 10 champignons
• 1/2 bell pepper
• 3 small cucumbers
• 1 can of canned corn
• 100 g green peas
• Mayonnaise

Preparation Time

Total Time: 20 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Cook the rice: Begin by cooking the rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, set it aside to cool completely.

2. Prepare vegetables: While the rice is cooling, peel and chop the cucumbers and bell pepper into bite-sized pieces for a refreshing crunch.

3. Dice the crab sticks and mushrooms: Chop the crab sticks and champignons into small pieces. This will ensure that each bite has a bit of everything.

4. Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rice, chopped cucumbers, bell pepper, crab sticks, and champignons.

5. Add corn and peas: Drain the canned corn and add it to the bowl, along with the green peas. Gently fold the ingredients together to combine.

6. Dress with mayonnaise: Add the mayonnaise to the bowl and carefully mix until all the ingredients are well coated. Add more or less mayonnaise to suit your taste.

7. Taste and adjust: Taste the salad for seasoning and add salt and pepper if necessary.

8. Chill and serve: Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold for the best taste.

9. Garnish if desired: Top with fresh herbs like parsley or dill before serving for an extra touch of flavor and color.

10. Enjoy: This salad works well on its own or as a side dish. Enjoy!

Tips

• Substitute fresh corn for canned if you prefer extra crunch.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier twist.
• Add fresh herbs such as dill or parsley for an extra flavor dimension.
• For added spice, mix in a dash of smoked paprika.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
• Protein: 8g
• Fats: 12g
• Carbs: 28g

Variations

• Vegetarian: Replace crab sticks with diced firm tofu or additional vegetables.
• Low-fat: Use light mayonnaise or a yogurt-based dressing.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crusty baguette or as a filling for wraps.
• Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
• Garnish with fresh herbs or slices of avocado.

Best Places

1. Piens - A lively spot offering traditional Latvian dishes with a twist. Location: Valdemāra iela 76, Riga, Latvia.

2. Brōss - Known for its vibrant atmosphere and excellent seafood menu. Location: Antonijas iela 18A, Riga, Latvia.

3. Kultūras Bar - Combines art and food in a unique setting. Location: Miera iela 39, Riga, Latvia.

4. Vieta - Offers a wide selection of Latvian delicacies in a cozy environment. Location: Katrīnas dambis 22, Riga, Latvia.

5. 3 Pavāru Restorāns - Famous for its creative Latvian cuisine. Location: Torņa iela 4, Riga, Latvia.

6. Zilver - A charming cafe with an emphasis on organic and local produce. Location: Lāčplēša iela 12, Riga, Latvia.

7. Pērle - Offers an array of Latvian-inspired seafood dishes. Location: Blaumaņa iela 10, Riga, Latvia.

8. Latvijas Leijerkaste - A hearty menu featuring local favorites. Location: Lienes iela 27, Riga, Latvia.

9. Folkklubs Ala Pagrabs - Authentic Latvian cuisine in a rustic setting. Location: Peldu iela 19, Riga, Latvia.

10. Raw Garden - For those preferring plant-based options with a Latvian twist. Location: Antonijas iela 12, Riga, Latvia.