Recipe for Crayfish Salad That’s Fresh and Delicious

Updated On: October 15, 2025

Crayfish salad is a delightful dish that brings together the fresh, sweet flavors of crayfish with crisp vegetables and a zesty dressing. Perfect as a light meal on a warm day or as an elegant starter for a dinner party, this salad is both refreshing and satisfying.

The tender crayfish meat pairs wonderfully with crunchy celery, juicy tomatoes, and a hint of citrus, creating a medley of textures and tastes that will please any seafood lover. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal at home, this recipe offers a perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This crayfish salad recipe is a winner for so many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal cooking while delivering maximum flavor.

The crayfish meat is naturally sweet and tender, offering a luxurious seafood experience without the fuss.

Secondly, this salad is versatile—you can enjoy it as a light lunch, a side dish, or even a main course if you pile it high enough! Plus, it’s packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, making it a nutrient-rich option that’s perfect for those aiming to eat clean and healthy.

Finally, the dressing is bright and tangy, complementing the crayfish perfectly and bringing the whole dish to life. It’s a refreshing alternative to heavier seafood salads, leaving you feeling satisfied but not weighed down.

Ingredients

  • 300g cooked crayfish tails, peeled and deveined
  • 2 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
  • 1 large cucumber, diced
  • 10 cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 celery stalks, finely sliced
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 3 tablespoons mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil, for drizzling

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Small bowl for dressing
  • Whisk or fork
  • Salad serving bowl or plates

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crayfish: If your crayfish tails are not pre-cooked, boil them in salted water for 3-4 minutes until they turn bright red and are cooked through. Drain and let them cool before peeling and deveining. Set aside.
  2. Chop the vegetables: Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the celery and red onion thinly, and dice the avocado. Place all the chopped vegetables into a large mixing bowl along with the mixed salad greens.
  3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. Combine salad and dressing: Pour the dressing over the vegetables and greens. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  5. Add crayfish and herbs: Fold in the cooked crayfish tails and chopped fresh dill carefully, ensuring the crayfish remain intact and the salad is evenly dressed.
  6. Final touches: Drizzle a little olive oil over the salad for extra richness. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  7. Serve immediately: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or individual plates. Serve fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper to the dressing!

If you prefer a lighter dressing, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative. You can also swap lemon juice with lime for a slightly different citrus note.

To add some crunch, sprinkle toasted almonds or pine nuts on top just before serving. For a Mediterranean twist, include some crumbled feta cheese and Kalamata olives.

For a heartier salad, serve it on a bed of cooked quinoa or rice. This also makes the dish more filling if you want to enjoy it as a main course.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount (per serving)
Calories 280 kcal
Protein 28 g
Fat 12 g
Carbohydrates 10 g
Fiber 4 g
Vitamin C 35% of daily value
Calcium 10% of daily value

Serving Suggestions

This crayfish salad shines when served chilled, making it a perfect dish for picnics or summer gatherings. Pair it with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé to complement the delicate seafood flavors.

For a complete meal, serve alongside crusty artisan bread or garlic butter toasts. It also works beautifully as a starter before a rich main course like grilled fish or roasted chicken.

If you enjoy salads, be sure to check out our fresh and easy Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas for more inspiration.

Conclusion

Crayfish salad is a wonderful dish that balances the natural sweetness of seafood with crisp, fresh vegetables and a tangy, flavorful dressing. It’s simple to prepare yet impressive enough to serve at any occasion—from casual lunches to elegant dinner parties.

The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences and dietary needs, making it a go-to option in your recipe collection.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this salad offers a straightforward yet delicious way to enjoy crayfish. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the ingredients and dressings to find your perfect combination.

If you love exploring new recipes, you might also enjoy our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide and Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food for more wholesome meals.

📖 Recipe Card: Crayfish Salad

Description: A fresh and flavorful crayfish salad perfect for a light meal or appetizer. Combines tender crayfish with crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT25M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 400g cooked crayfish tails
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cups mixed salad greens
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add crayfish tails to the bowl and toss to coat with dressing.
  3. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and mixed greens.
  4. Gently toss all ingredients until well combined.
  5. Sprinkle fresh dill on top and serve immediately.

Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 30 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 6 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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