Crab Louie Salad Lettuce Cups: A Classic Recipe Reimagined 🦀🥬

Introduction: What Is Crab Louie Salad?

Crab Louie Salad—often called the “King of Salads”—is a traditional American dish with roots in the early 1900s, especially popular on the West Coast. Known for its crisp vegetables, creamy dressing, and tender chunks of crab meat, it’s a seafood-lover’s dream that has stood the test of time.

In this article, we’re giving the classic a lighter, modern twist by turning it into Crab Louie Salad Lettuce Cups—a fresher, hand-held version that’s low in carbs but full of flavor.

We’ll walk you through everything:

• History and origins of the Crab Louie Salad
• Health benefits of the ingredients
• A complete recipe with easy-to-find ingredients
• Step-by-step instructions
• Tips, variations, FAQs, and more

This isn’t just a recipe—it’s a deep dive into a truly timeless dish.

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Why You’ll Love These Crab Louie Salad Lettuce Cups

• ✅ Low-carb & keto-friendly
• ✅ Gluten-free and naturally dairy-free
• ✅ Perfect for meal prep or entertaining
• ✅ Elegant yet easy to make

Crab Louie Salad Lettuce Cups make a light yet satisfying lunch, a showstopping appetizer, or even a full dinner when served with sides.

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The Story Behind Crab Louie Salad

Crab Louie (or Louis) originated in San Francisco or Spokane—depending on which food historian you ask. It rose to popularity in the early 20th century, especially in upscale hotel restaurants.

The original dish is a composed salad: crab meat, hard-boiled eggs, tomato wedges, and asparagus over iceberg lettuce, all drizzled with a creamy Louie dressing—a spicy mayo-based sauce similar to Thousand Island.

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Health Benefits of the Key Ingredients

Crab Meat:

• Low in calories, high in protein
• Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and B12
• Great for brain and heart health

Romaine or Butter Lettuce:

• Low in carbs and calories
• Contains vitamin A, C, and folate

Vegetables (Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Avocados):

• Hydrating and nutrient-dense
• High in fiber and antioxidants

Louie Dressing (Modified Healthier Version):

• Made with Greek yogurt or avocado mayo for a lighter version
• Packs flavor without excess calories

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Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

For the Salad Cups:

• 1 lb lump crab meat (real, not imitation)
• 1 head romaine or butter lettuce (large leaves separated and rinsed)
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions
• Lemon wedges, for serving

For the Light Louie Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or avocado mayo)
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons ketchup (low sugar if preferred)
• 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Lettuce: Gently separate the lettuce leaves, rinse, and pat dry. Keep them whole to act as “cups.”
2. Make the Dressing:
   • In a bowl, whisk together the mayo, Greek yogurt, ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning. Chill until ready to serve.
3. Assemble the Filling:
   • In a medium bowl, gently mix the crab meat with diced avocado, tomato, cucumber, red onion, eggs, and chives.
   • Add a few tablespoons of the Louie dressing and fold gently.
4. Build the Cups:
   • Spoon the mixture into each lettuce cup.
   • Drizzle a bit more Louie dressing on top.
   • Garnish with lemon wedges and extra chives.
5. Serve Immediately: Enjoy chilled with extra dressing on the side.

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Make-Ahead Tips

• You can prep the dressing and chop veggies a day ahead.
• Keep the crab meat sealed and chilled until ready to serve.
• Assemble cups just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.

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Variations and Substitutions

• 🐟 Use shrimp or a mix of shrimp and crab for a seafood medley.
• 🥚 Leave out the eggs for an egg-free version.
• 🌿 Add fresh dill or parsley for herb lovers.
• 🥑 Make it dairy-free by using only avocado mayo.

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Perfect Pairings and Serving Ideas

• Serve with chilled white wine (or sparkling water with lemon)
• Pair with grilled asparagus or a fresh fruit salad
• Make it a meal with sourdough toast on the side

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Storage & Leftovers

• Storage: Store unassembled filling and dressing in the fridge up to 2 days.
• Leftovers: Once assembled, eat within 24 hours for best texture.
• Freezing: Not recommended due to the fresh vegetables and dressing.

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Crab Louie Salad Lettuce Cups Nutrition

Nutrient	Amount (approx.)
Calories	280 per 2 cups
Protein	22g
Carbs	6g
Fat	18g
Fiber	3g

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FAQs: Everything You Need to Know

Q: What type of crab meat is best?
A: Use lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture. Fresh or refrigerated pasteurized is ideal.

Q: Can I make this spicy?
A: Absolutely! Add a dash of hot sauce to the dressing or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the top.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, naturally gluten-free—just double-check your condiments (like Worcestershire sauce).

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Try chickpeas or hearts of palm as a seafood-free alternative.

Q: Can I serve this warm?
A: It’s traditionally served cold, but lightly warmed crab works well if you skip the lettuce cups and use a bowl instead.

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Conclusion: A Timeless Classic Goes Modern

The Crab Louie Salad Lettuce Cup is proof that a classic can evolve and still keep its soul. It brings together fresh ingredients, bold flavor, and simple prep into a dish that’s as fitting for a casual lunch as it is for a party platter.

Whether you’re eating light or just love seafood, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation. Try it once, and you’ll see why Crab Louie Salad remains a beloved American staple over a century later.

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