Crab, Watermelon, Cucumber & Mint Salad
Description
This refreshing and elegant salad is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and herby flavors. The sweetness of juicy watermelon contrasts beautifully with the delicate brininess of fresh crab, while crisp cucumber and fragrant mint bring a cooling, aromatic freshness. Light, hydrating, and high in protein, this dish is ideal for summer gatherings, brunches, or as a gourmet starter.
Ingredients (Serves 2)
Fresh lump crab meat – 1 cup (about 120g), picked over for shells
Seedless watermelon – 1.5 cups, cut into ½-inch cubes
English cucumber – 1 cup, sliced thin or diced
Fresh mint leaves – ¼ cup, finely chopped or torn
Lime juice – 2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
Olive oil – 1 tablespoon (optional, for richness)
Salt – ¼ teaspoon (adjust to taste)
Black pepper – to taste
Red chili flakes or sliced chili (optional) – for a mild kick
Microgreens or arugula (optional garnish) – a small handful
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients:
Chill the watermelon, cucumber, and crab meat for at least 30 minutes before assembling.
Cube the watermelon and cucumber evenly.
Gently pick through the crab meat to remove any shell fragments.
Chop the mint just before serving to preserve its aroma.
Mix the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil (if using), salt, and black pepper.
Combine the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine watermelon, cucumber, and mint.
Drizzle with the dressing and gently toss.
Add Crab:
Fold in the crab meat carefully to avoid breaking it apart too much.
Plate and Garnish:
Serve chilled on individual plates or a platter.
Garnish with extra mint, microgreens, or a light sprinkle of chili flakes if desired.
Total Time
Preparation: 15–20 minutes
Chill time (optional): 30 minutes
Total: ~20 minutes active, ~50 minutes with chilling
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approx.)
Calories: 180 kcal
Protein: 17 g
Carbohydrates: 12
Sugars: 9 g
Fiber: 1.5 g
Fat: 7 g
Saturated Fat: 1 g
Sodium: 450 mg
Vitamin C: 30% DV
Vitamin A: 20% DV
Calcium: 6% DV
Iron: 8% DV
(values may vary depending on exact brands and proportions used)
FAQs
Q: Can I use imitation crab instead of fresh crab?
A: Yes, but the flavor and texture will differ. Real crab offers a delicate, sweet brininess that balances the watermelon better. Use imitation only if fresh isn’t available.
Q: What’s the best type of crab meat for this salad?
A: Lump or jumbo lump crab meat works best for texture and presentation. Avoid canned crab if possible unless it’s high quality.
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: You can prep the ingredients a few hours ahead, but mix them together only just before serving to keep the watermelon and cucumber crisp and the crab fresh.
Q: What can I serve this salad with?
A: Great as a starter or side with grilled seafood, seared scallops, or a light rosé wine.
Q: Is it keto-friendly or low-carb?
A: It’s relatively low in carbs (12g per serving) but not strictly keto due to the natural sugars in watermelon. You could reduce the watermelon and increase cucumber for a lower-carb version.