Linda CainWhen considering what to serve with Neiman Marcus crab salad, several delightful options come to mind. Think about a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc. Its acidity complements the richness of the salad.
Alternatively, a lightly chilled rosé could brighten the meal effortlessly. If beverages aren’t on your mind, consider fresh baked bread. Crusty baguettes or soft dinner rolls can help soak up the flavors. And for a refreshing finish, serve fresh fruit. Berries or citrus slices can cleanse the palate and offer a sweet contrast to the dish.
A sunny afternoon gathering with friends or family. The table is beautifully set, the sun dapples through the trees, and the scent of fresh ingredients fills the air. Days like this call for a salad that is refreshing, indulgent, and undeniably elegant.
Enter the Neiman Marcus crab salad. Originally crafted by the famed Neiman Marcus department store in Dallas, Texas, this dish quickly became iconic. It transforms ordinary crab meat into a luxurious experience.
Through this blog, I invite you into the culinary world where recipes come to life, stories unfold around the table, and delicious flavors reign. I’m a registered dietitian and food blogger, passionate about creating delicious and easy meals that make you feel good.
So, let’s dive into the marvel that is the Neiman Marcus crab salad, a dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds but captures the joy of sharing food with loved ones.
What is Neiman Marcus Crab Salad?
Neiman Marcus crab salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. At its core, it features fresh crab meat tossed with a medley of ingredients like cooked rice, celery, and hard-boiled eggs.
A creamy dressing binds it all together, adding richness without overwhelming the delicate crab. This dish perfectly balances creamy and crunchy with each bite, making it a hit at gatherings and special occasions.
Why Does This Recipe Work?
This recipe is more than just a collection of ingredients. It brings people together and offers something unique. Here’s why this dish deserves a place on your table:
- Fresh Ingredients Make a Difference: The use of high-quality crab meat elevates the salad. Fresh ingredients like crisp celery and vibrant herbs keep the dish light and bright, offering a refreshing taste.
- Versatile Combinations: This salad adapts easily to what you have in your pantry. You can add extra veggies, swap the dressing, or even use lobster for a touch of luxury. This versatility means you can tailor it to your preferences.
- Creaminess Without Guilt: The dressing combines mayonnaise with red wine vinegar and olive oil, creating a creamy texture. Yet, this mixture is balanced enough that it won’t leave you feeling heavy.
- Easy to Prepare: Meal prep has never been easier. This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully, making it perfect for busy hosts or time-starved individuals.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Neiman Marcus Crab Salad
To create your very own crab salad, gather the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup crab meat (or chopped lobster)
- 1/2 cup slivered ham
- 2 cups cooked rice, chilled
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped chives
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup creamy mayonnaise
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a slight tang)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for added brightness)
How to Make This
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
First, gather all your ingredients. Chop the celery, hard-boiled eggs, chives, and parsley. If you’re using crab meat, check for any shells. You’ll want only the tender meat in your salad.
Step 2: Combine the Base
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the crab meat, slivered ham, chilled rice, celery, and chopped eggs. This is where the flavors begin to meld.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, mayonnaise, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard (if using). This combination should create a creamy dressing that tastes fresh and zesty.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Pour the dressing over the crab mixture. Gently fold everything together until the salad is coated evenly. You want to maintain the delicate texture of the crab as much as possible.
Step 5: Garnish and Chill
Sprinkle the chopped herbs on top. Give it a light mix, cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to develop.
Tips
- Use Fresh Crab: If possible, opt for fresh, lump crab. It enhances the dish and makes a noticeable difference in taste.
- Chill Before Serving: I recommend chilling the salad for an hour. This not only improves the flavor but also makes it refreshing.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, stir gently. You want to keep the crab intact for a more appealing texture.
- Adjust Seasonings: Everyone’s palate is different. Feel free to add more seasoning to suit your taste.
- Experiment with Add-ins: This is a flexible recipe. Try adding ingredients like avocado or bell peppers for a new twist.
How to Store the Leftovers?
Leftovers are usually delicious. Store the crab salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It should keep well for up to three days.
Just be sure to give it a good mix before serving again, as some separation may occur.
What Are Some Recommended Side Dishes for Neiman Marcus Crab Salad?
Here are a few side dish suggestions that would pair beautifully with this delightful salad:
- Garlic Bread: This classic side is not only easy to whip up but also great for sopping up any leftover dressing.
- Crispy Green Salad: A light salad with greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the crab salad.
- Fish Tacos: If you want a more substantial meal, serving fish tacos alongside can create a delightful fusion of flavors.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits will balance the savory flavors of the crab salad.
If the Items Are Not Available in Your Pantry, What Are Some Substitute Options for the Ingredients?
- Crab Meat: If you can’t find crab, consider using cooked shrimp or canned tuna as a protein substitute. Both provide great flavor changes.
- Rice: Quinoa or orzo can stand in for rice. They not only change the texture but also add unique flavors.
- Mayonnaise: For a lighter version, try Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of lemon or vinegar for depth.
- Red Wine Vinegar: If you lack red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar can work just as well, adding their unique nuances to the dressing.
Neiman Marcus Crab Salad Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup crab meat or chopped lobster
- 1/2 cup slivered ham
- 2 cups cooked rice chilled
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
- 2 hard-boiled eggs finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped chives
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup creamy mayonnaise
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard optional, for a slight tang
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest optional, for added brightness
Instructions
- First, gather all your ingredients. Chop the celery, hard-boiled eggs, chives, and parsley. If you’re using crab meat, check for any shells. You’ll want only the tender meat in your salad.
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together the crab meat, slivered ham, chilled rice, celery, and chopped eggs. This is where the flavors begin to meld.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, mayonnaise, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard (if using). This combination should create a creamy dressing that tastes fresh and zesty.
- Pour the dressing over the crab mixture. Gently fold everything together until the salad is coated evenly. You want to maintain the delicate texture of the crab as much as possible.
- Sprinkle the chopped herbs on top. Give it a light mix, cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to develop.
Notes
- Use Fresh Crab: If possible, opt for fresh, lump crab. It enhances the dish and makes a noticeable difference in taste.
- Chill Before Serving: I recommend chilling the salad for an hour. This not only improves the flavor but also makes it refreshing.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, stir gently. You want to keep the crab intact for a more appealing texture.
- Adjust Seasonings: Everyone’s palate is different. Feel free to add more seasoning to suit your taste.
- Experiment with Add-ins: This is a flexible recipe. Try adding ingredients like avocado or bell peppers for a new twist.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
In the culinary world, few things bring as much joy as a delightful dish that holds memories of shared laughter and good times. The Neiman Marcus crab salad is just that. It’s a well-crafted recipe that showcases rich flavors while being easy to prepare.
Perfect for gatherings, meal prep, or simply treating yourself, this salad ticks all the boxes. Enjoy the journey of creating, tasting, and sharing this elegant dish. Gather your ingredients, mix with love, and let the flavor speak for itself!
