As someone who loves seafood and creamy dressings, I’m excited to share with you my take on the Minnesota Crab Louie. This dish is a twist on the classic Crab Louie, using imitation crab meat and shrimp for a more accessible and affordable version. Let’s dive into why you’ll love it, how to make it, and some fun ways to customize it!
Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (since we’re using pre-cooked ingredients)
- Serving Size: 4-6 servings
Why You’ll Love It
Minnesota Crab Louie is a creamy, spicy, and versatile dish that combines the best of seafood with a tangy dressing. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a mix of textures and flavors in their salads. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
Seafood Mixture:
- 3 cups imitation crab meat chunks
- 1 bag (16 ounces) frozen cooked shrimp, thawed and chopped
- ½ cup celery, diced
- ¼ cup green onions, minced
- ¼ cup green bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Louis Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup chili garlic sauce
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
How to Make It
- Prepare the Seafood Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the imitation crab meat, shrimp, celery, green onions, bell pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well.
- Make the Louis Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, chili garlic sauce, and heavy whipping cream until smooth.
- Combine and Chill: Pour the dressing over the seafood mixture and toss until everything is well coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions
- Salad Style: Serve on a bed of lettuce with cherry tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and asparagus for a classic look.
- Crackers or Bread: Enjoy with crackers or toasted bread for a snack or light lunch.
- Salad Cups: Use individual salad cups for a fun and easy appetizer.
Tips for Customization
- Add Some Heat: Increase the amount of chili garlic sauce for an extra spicy kick.
- More Seafood: Add cooked scallops or lobster for a luxurious twist.
- Veggie Delight: Include diced cucumbers or radishes for extra crunch.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
Per serving (assuming 4 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 25g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use real crab meat instead of imitation crab?
A: Yes, you can definitely use real crab meat for a more authentic flavor. Dungeness or King crab work well.
Q: How long can I store the prepared Crab Louie?
A: You can store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Give it a good stir before serving.
Q: Can I make this recipe without shrimp?
A: Yes, you can omit the shrimp or substitute it with other seafood like scallops.
Conclusion
Minnesota Crab Louie is a delightful twist on a classic dish, offering a creamy, spicy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a fancy dinner, this recipe is sure to impress!
