Chilled Crab Pasta Delight

Delightful Crab and Citrus Pasta Salad

If you’re looking for a light and refreshing dish that captures summer in every bite, this delightful crab and citrus pasta salad is your answer! Infused with flavors of the sea and the zest of citrus, it's a perfect dish for warm evenings or gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons high-quality extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon sherry vinegar
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest and 1 teaspoon lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and more to taste
• 2 cups chilled cooked spaghetti (about 3 ounces uncooked)
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh basil
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh mint
• 1 small Thai chili (optional, seeded if preferred), minced
• 8 ounces of fresh jumbo lump crabmeat, thoroughly drained and checked for shells
• 1/2 cup tangerine segments
• 1/4 cup trout roe (if desired)

Cooking Instructions

Begin by whisking together the olive oil, sherry vinegar, lemon zest, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and kosher salt in a spacious bowl, creating a smooth and creamy vinaigrette.

Next, add in the chilled spaghetti, along with the chopped parsley, basil, mint, and minced Thai chili. Gently fold the ingredients together until the spaghetti is well coated in the dressing.

Carefully incorporate the crabmeat and tangerine segments. Gently mix until everything is evenly distributed. Cover the bowl and let the salad chill in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Before serving, give it a light toss. For an elevated presentation, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of trout roe.

This pasta salad can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to three hours in advance, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Serve it with a chilled glass of fresh, aromatic Provençal rosé for the ultimate dining experience!

Cooking Time

Total preparation time is approximately 20-30 minutes, making it a quick and rewarding dish to whip up.

Important Notes

Ensure your crabmeat is fresh and properly picked over to avoid shell remnants. Adjust seasoning according to your taste preference. This recipe is versatile – feel free to add other seasonal vegetables or herbs to personalize your salad!