When it comes to seafood, many of us think we have to break out the wallet and shell out for expensive fish or shellfish. But what if you could get the same delicious flavor and texture at a fraction of the cost? Enter imitation crab, also known as surimi. This versatile ingredient is made from fish protein that’s been processed into a crab-like meat, making it a great option for those looking to save money without sacrificing taste.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 creative ways to use imitation crab in your recipes. From sushi rolls and pasta dishes to salads and appetizers, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these ideas are sure to inspire you to get creative with this affordable and tasty ingredient.
Imitation Crab Sushi Rolls
This classic Japanese-inspired recipe yields crispy and flavorful sushi rolls filled with imitation crab meat, perfect for a quick and easy snack or meal. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy these tasty treats in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of sushi rice
– 1/2 cup of imitation crab meat
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: cucumber slices, avocado pieces, or pickled ginger for added flavor and texture
Instructions:
1. Cook the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Prepare the imitation crab meat by gently flaking it with a fork or your fingers.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board.
4. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place the imitation crab meat in the middle of the rice, along the length of the roll.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo sushi mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
7. Slice into individual pieces and serve with soy sauce, sesame oil, and optional garnishes.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (cooking time for sushi rice)
Creamy Imitation Crab Dip
A delicious and easy-to-make dip that’s perfect for parties or snacking at home. This creamy imitation crab dip is a crowd-pleaser, with a subtle seafood flavor that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped imitation crab meat (such as surimi)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
3. Add the chopped imitation crab meat, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is heated through and slightly golden brown on top.
6. Serve warm with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Imitation Crab Salad Sandwiches
A classic combination of flavors and textures, these sandwiches are perfect for a quick lunch or snack. With the ease of imitation crab and creamy mayonnaise, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup imitation crab meat
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce leaves and tomato slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine imitation crab, mayonnaise, parsley, and Dijon mustard. Mix until well combined.
2. Cut the hamburger buns in half and toast lightly.
3. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the crab mixture onto each bun half.
4. Add lettuce leaves and tomato slices if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a quick and easy assembly job.
Spicy Imitation Crab Pasta
Add a kick to your pasta game with this spicy imitation crab pasta recipe! This dish is perfect for those who love the flavors of seafood but want a vegetarian alternative.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1/2 cup imitation crab meat (flaked)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add imitation crab meat, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey. Pour into the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta and spicy crab mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Imitation Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Elevate your appetizer game with these succulent crab cakes, packed with the flavors of the ocean and a tangy lemon aioli to complement. Perfect for a quick bite or as part of a seafood spread.
Ingredients:
For the crab cakes:
– 1 package imitation crab meat (flaked)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
For the lemon aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced clove garlic
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Divide mixture into 6 portions; shape each portion into a ball and flatten slightly.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, mix lemon aioli ingredients in a small bowl.
6. Serve crab cakes with a dollop of lemon aioli on the side.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Imitation Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed mushrooms, this recipe combines the savory taste of imitation crab with creamy cheese and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (any variety)
– 1/2 cup imitation crab meat
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together imitation crab meat, cheddar cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and fill each cap with the crab mixture, dividing it evenly.
4. Dot the top of each mushroom with butter.
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Imitation Crab and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines the rich flavor of imitation crab with the creaminess of avocado, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack. With its simplicity and ease of preparation, this recipe is ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup imitation crab meat (flaked)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine flaked imitation crab meat, diced avocado, chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep only)
Imitation Crab Chowder
This rich and creamy chowder recipe is a delicious twist on traditional seafood soups, featuring imitation crab meat as the star ingredient. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of imitation crab meat, flaked
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (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, chicken broth, and paprika.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat and let cook for 5 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Imitation Crab Fried Rice
A classic Chinese-inspired dish gets a seafood twist with this recipe featuring imitation crab meat and flavorful stir-fry. This simple yet satisfying meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
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 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper 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 minced garlic; stir-fry until softened.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked imitation crab meat; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Push the mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in an egg and scramble it until cooked through, then mix with the other ingredients.
5. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry everything together for about 5 minutes, or until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
6. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Imitation Crab Tacos with Mango Salsa
Elevate your taco game with this refreshing twist on a classic. Crispy tacos filled with sweet and savory imitation crab, paired with a zesty mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of imitation crab meat
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mango salsa (recipe below)
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine imitation crab meat, mayonnaise, soy sauce, lime juice, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Assemble tacos by spooning crab mixture onto warmed tortillas.
4. Serve with Mango Salsa and enjoy!
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Imitation Crab Louie Salad
A classic salad with a twist, this Imitation Crab Louie Salad combines the flavors of seafood and greens for a quick and easy meal. With its creamy dressing and crunchy toppings, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup imitation crab meat (flake-style)
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. Flake the imitation crab meat into small pieces and add to the bowl.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Imitation Crab and Corn Fritters
Get ready for a flavorful and crispy treat! These Imitation Crab and Corn Fritters are the perfect snack or appetizer, packed with juicy crab, sweet corn, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup imitation crab meat
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together imitation crab meat, corn kernels, flour, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Add the beaten egg and melted butter to the mixture; stir until just combined.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the crab-corn mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain fritters on paper towels; serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Imitation Crab Alfredo Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and indulgent recipe that combines the flavors of crab, cream, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. fettuccine pasta
– 1 cup imitation crab meat (flaked)
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking continuously. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in imitation crab meat, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the sauce and toss until coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Imitation Crab and Cucumber Appetizers
Elevate your party with these refreshing and flavorful bite-sized treats that combine the sweetness of imitation crab with the crunch of cucumber. Perfect for gatherings, parties, or even a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of imitation crab meat (surimi)
– 2 large cucumbers
– 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the cucumbers into 1-inch pieces.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the imitation crab meat, mayonnaise, soy sauce, and sesame oil until well combined.
3. Stuff each cucumber piece with about 1 tablespoon of the crab mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this is an appetizer that doesn’t require cooking.
Imitation Crab Quesadillas
Elevate your snack game with this innovative recipe that combines the flavors of imitation crab and melted cheese inside a crispy quesadilla. It’s an unexpected fusion that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1/2 cup imitation crab meat, flaked
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together imitation crab meat, shredded cheese, and garlic powder.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the crab mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla to enclose the filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is golden brown.
5. Flip and cook the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Imitation Crab and Cream Cheese Wontons
Elevate your appetizer game with these bite-sized wontons filled with a rich imitation crab and cream cheese mixture. Perfect for parties or a quick snack.
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 your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine imitation crab meat, cream cheese, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix until well combined.
3. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the crab 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. Press the edges together to seal the wonton.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Place wontons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch between each wonton.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Imitation Crab and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this innovative twist on classic stuffed shells! Creamy imitation crab and spinach filling is nestled inside tender pasta shells, resulting in a delightful flavor combination.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 (8 oz) package imitation crab meat, flaked
– 1/2 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions; set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine imitation crab meat, spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the crab-spinach mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until shells are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Imitation Crab and Shrimp Scampi
This seafood scampi recipe combines the flavors of imitation crab and shrimp with garlic, lemon, and herbs for a tasty and easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup imitation crab meat
– 1/2 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the shrimp according to package instructions or until pink and tender.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add imitation crab meat and cook for an additional 2 minutes, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add cooked shrimp and stir to combine.
5. Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture and sprinkle with parsley.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Summary of 18 Creative Imitation Crab Recipes You’ll Love
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