Crab Louie Salad: The Ultimate West Coast Classic Seafood Feast

Crab Louie Salad: The Ultimate West Coast Classic Seafood Feast

Key Info:

Prep Time: 15-25 minutes
Cook Time: 0-10 minutes
Total Time: 15-30 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Diet: Pescatarian, Gluten-Free Option

Equipment Needed:

– Large salad bowl
– Chef’s knife
– Cutting board
– Mixing bowl
– Whisk
– Saucepan (for eggs)

Ingredients:

Salad Components:

– 1.5 lbs fresh crab meat
– 1 head romaine lettuce
– 2-6 hard-boiled eggs
– 2 large tomatoes
– 1 ripe avocado
– 1 cucumber
– Optional: Bacon crumbles
– Optional: Asparagus spears

Louie Dressing:

– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 3 tbsp ketchup
– 2 tsp horseradish
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. Prepare Louie Dressing

– Whisk all dressing ingredients in a bowl
– Refrigerate to let flavors meld

2. Prep Salad Components

– Wash and chop lettuce
– Slice tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado
– Quarter hard-boiled eggs
– Pick through crab meat for shells

3. Assemble Salad

– Layer crisp lettuce as base
– Arrange vegetables artfully
– Mound crab meat in center
– Garnish with lemon wedges

Crucial Tips:

– Keep ingredients cold
– Check crab for shell pieces
– Serve dressing on side to prevent soggy greens

Storage:

– Best enjoyed immediately
– Refrigerate components separately
– Consume within 1-2 days

Variations:

– Swap crab for shrimp
– Add bacon or prosciutto
– Experiment with spicy dressing

Pro Moves:

– Chill plates before serving
– Use fresh, high-quality crab
– Don’t overdress the salad

Nutritional Highlights:

– High protein
– Healthy fats from avocado
– Rich in vitamins
– Low-carb option

Why This Rocks:

Crab Louie isn’t just a salad—it’s a West Coast legend that transforms simple ingredients into a showstopping dish. Fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor, it’s summer on a plate.

Origin Story:

Born in early 20th century San Francisco, this salad has been delighting diners for generations. It’s more than food—it’s culinary history you can taste.

Perfect For:

– Summer gatherings
– Fancy brunches
– Impressive dinner parties
– Seafood lovers
– Health-conscious eaters

Grab your fork and dive into this classic California creation!