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Crab salad on lettuce leaves
Mirjana

Spicy Mediterranean Crab Salad Lettuce Boats – Easy & Refreshing Make-Ahead Recipe

Whether you're entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, these spicy Mediterranean crab salad lettuce boats are sure to impress. And the best part? No cooking required.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
8 hoors 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean inspired
Calories: 260
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz premium crab meat (Ocean Legacy Jumbo Lump, recommended)
  • 8 oz crab claw meat (Ocean Legacy Claw Meat, recommended)
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 1/2 medium red onion, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup pickled dill gherkins or cucumbers, finely chopped (about 3–4)
  • 3-4 baby carrots, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup spicy Harissa mayonnaise (plus extra for serving)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (or to taste)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, minced (reserve some for garnish)
  • 1 tsp light brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp pink peppercorns, ground
  • Salt to taste
  • 4 large Romaine lettuce leaves
  • 1/2 cup pickled sweet Peruvian peppers (optional, for garnish)
  • 1/2 cup halved purple cherry tomatoes (optional, for garnish)

Method
 

  1. Prepare Ingredients
    Crab salad ingredients
  2. Combine the Ingredients:
    In a large mixing bowl, gently fold together the crab meats, chopped vegetables, both mayonnaises, lemon juice, herbs, sugar, coriander, and pink peppercorns. Add salt to taste and stir until everything is evenly coated.
    Crab meet salad in bowl
  3. Chill Overnight:
    
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad overnight. This resting period helps the flavors meld and intensify.
  4. Assemble and Serve:

    Before serving, stir the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. Spoon generous portions into fresh Romaine lettuce leaves. Garnish with extra Harissa mayo, pickled Peruvian peppers, and halved cherry tomatoes for color and flavor.

Notes

Serving Suggestions
• Serve with rice crackers, pita chips, or crusty bread.
• Use as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
• Pair with a chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
• Ideal for meal prep, picnics, or summer brunch.
Make Ahead & Storage
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Assemble into lettuce boats just before serving for the best texture.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approximate):
• Calories: 260
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 3g
• Sodium: 510mg
(Values may vary based on brand and portion size.)