Crab And Avocado Recipe

Prepare crab

If using refrigerated fresh lump crab meat, check for shells and gently pick through. Drain any excess liquid by placing crab meat in a fine-mesh sieve and gently pressing with the back of a spoon for 1–2 minutes. Transfer crab to a medium mixing bowl and fluff gently with a fork to separate lumps.

Prepare produce

Peel, halve and pit the avocados. Using a spoon, scoop the flesh out and cut into 1/2-inch dice. Immediately toss avocado pieces with 1 tablespoon of the lime juice to slow browning and set aside. Peel the cucumber (optional) and halve lengthwise, scoop seeds if watery, then dice into 1/4-inch pieces. Finely dice the red onion (about 2 tablespoons) and halve the cherry tomatoes. Roughly chop the cilantro or parsley.

Make dressing

In a small bowl or jar combine the remaining 1 tablespoon lime juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon honey, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper and 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk (or shake in a jar) until emulsified and taste; adjust salt or acidity as needed.

Combine salad

Gently fold the drained crab, diced avocado, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion and chopped cilantro into the bowl with the dressing. Mix carefully so you don't break up the crab lumps or mash the avocado. Taste and adjust seasoning — add a pinch more salt, pepper or a squeeze of lime if needed.

Plate and garnish

Arrange microgreens or butter lettuce leaves on four plates (about 6 leaves per plate). Spoon equal portions of the crab-and-avocado salad onto the leaves. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or chopped toasted almonds on top if using. Serve with lemon or lime wedges on the side.

To toast seeds or nuts: place a small nonstick skillet over medium heat, add 1/2 teaspoon olive oil and the 2 teaspoons sesame seeds or chopped almonds. Toast, stirring constantly, for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Remove immediately to a small bowl to avoid burning and let cool before sprinkling over salad.