20 Delicious Surimi Recipes for Seafood Lovers

Carmen Eldridge

April 9, 2025

Are you a seafood lover looking for new and exciting ways to incorporate surimi into your meals? Look no further! Surimi, also known as imitation crab, has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its affordability and versatility. With its mild flavor and chewy texture, it’s the perfect ingredient to add some excitement to your favorite dishes. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious surimi recipes that are sure to please even the most discerning palates.

From classic comfort foods like creamy chowders and pasta dishes, to international-inspired creations like sushi rolls and tacos, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are easy to follow and packed with flavor. So why wait? Dive into the world of surimi and discover a whole new level of culinary creativity!

Surimi Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli

Surimi Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Surimi Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe

This recipe combines the flavors of succulent surimi crab, crispy breadcrumbs, and zesty lemon aioli to create a mouthwatering appetizer or main course. Perfect for seafood lovers, this dish is sure to please even the most discerning palates.

Ingredients:

– 1 bag surimi crab (flaked)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine surimi crab, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning. Mix well.
3. Divide mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired size. Shape each portion into a ball and flatten slightly into a cake shape.
4. Fry crab cakes in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve with lemon aioli made by mixing mayonnaise with lemon juice to taste.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Spicy Surimi and Avocado Sushi Rolls

Spicy Surimi and Avocado Sushi Rolls
Elevate your sushi game with this innovative recipe that combines the spicy kick of surimi with the creamy texture of avocado. Perfect for adventurous eaters looking to try something new!

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked surimi (imitation crab)
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/4 cup sushi rice
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: wasabi or sriracha for added heat

Instructions:

1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board.
3. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place 1/4 cup of surimi and 1 tablespoon of mashed avocado in the middle of the rice.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
6. Slice into individual pieces and serve with soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (preparing ingredients) + assembly time

Creamy Surimi and Corn Chowder

Creamy Surimi and Corn Chowder
A comforting and flavorful soup perfect for a chilly evening. This creamy chowder combines the sweetness of corn with the savory taste of surimi.

Ingredients:

– 1 can (14 oz) surimi, drained and flaked
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the chicken broth, surimi, and paprika. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat and let cook for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and corn kernels. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Surimi Salad with Mango and Cucumber

Surimi Salad with Mango and Cucumber
Looking for a light and flavorful salad that’s perfect for a summer evening? This Surimi Salad with Mango and Cucumber is a unique combination of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup surimi (imitation crab meat)
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the surimi, mango, and cucumber.
2. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top.
3. Squeeze the lime juice evenly over the salad.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Surimi and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms

Surimi and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Surimi and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms: A Savory Delight

These bite-sized treasures combine the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the creamy richness of surimi and cheese. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they’re sure to please!

Ingredients:

– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 cup surimi (imitation crab meat)
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together surimi, cheddar cheese, and breadcrumbs.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and fill each cap with the surimi mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the mushrooms and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Garlic Butter Surimi Pasta

Garlic Butter Surimi Pasta
Transform your pasta dish with the rich flavors of garlic and butter, paired with the sweetness of surimi. This simple yet satisfying recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup surimi (imitation crab meat), drained and flaked
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add surimi to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic butter. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Combine cooked pasta and surimi mixture in a large serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top (if using) and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Surimi Tempura with Sweet Chili Sauce

Surimi Tempura with Sweet Chili Sauce
Add a crispy twist to your seafood game with this easy-to-make Surimi Tempura recipe, served with a sweet and spicy chili sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of surimi (imitation crab meat)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sweet Chili Sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
2. Gradually add soda water to the mixture until a batter forms.
3. Cut surimi into small pieces and coat each piece with the batter.
4. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry surimi tempura for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and drain excess oil on paper towels.
7. Serve with Sweet Chili Sauce for dipping.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Surimi and Shrimp Gumbo

Surimi and Shrimp Gumbo
A classic Louisiana-inspired dish that combines the sweetness of surimi with the savory flavor of shrimp, all wrapped up in a rich and spicy gumbo.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup surimi (krill-based imitation crab)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons filé powder (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
2. Add surimi, shrimp, thyme, cayenne, paprika, and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until surimi is lightly browned.
3. Gradually stir in chicken broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until gumbo has thickened.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot over rice.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Surimi Fried Rice with Vegetables

Surimi Fried Rice with Vegetables
This recipe combines the convenience of surimi (imitation crab meat) with the freshness of mixed vegetables, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a flavorful and nutritious meal ready in no time.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup surimi, diced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and stir-fry for another minute.
4. Add the surimi, mixed vegetables, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry until the ingredients are well combined and heated through.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Surimi and Cream Cheese Wontons

Surimi and Cream Cheese Wontons
These bite-sized wontons are a delicious combination of surimi (imitation crab) and cream cheese, perfect for a quick snack or appetizer. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy these tasty treats in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of wonton wrappers
– 1/2 cup surimi, flaked
– 1/4 cup softened cream cheese
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
– Water for sealing

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the surimi and cream cheese until well combined.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 teaspoon of the surimi mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Brush the edges of the wrapper with water.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Cook wontons in boiling water for 5-7 minutes, or until they float to the surface.

Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes

Enjoy your delicious Surimi and Cream Cheese Wontons!

Surimi Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro

Surimi Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro
A refreshing twist on traditional ceviche, this recipe combines the delicate flavor of surimi with the brightness of lime juice and the freshness of cilantro.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup surimi ( imitation crab)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cut the surimi into small pieces and place them in a shallow dish.
2. Pour the lime juice over the surimi, making sure that all the pieces are coated.
3. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top of the surimi.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the ceviche.
5. Season with salt to taste.

Cooking Time: None! This dish is served raw.

Surimi and Potato Croquettes

Surimi and Potato Croquettes
Surimi and Potato Croquettes Recipe: Crispy Bites of Flaky Fish and Spud-y Delight!

These addictive croquettes are a fusion of surimi, a type of fish paste, and potatoes. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they’re easy to make and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup surimi
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine surimi, potatoes, flour, paprika, and salt. Mix well.
2. Add the beaten egg to the mixture and stir until just combined.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the mixture into the oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
6. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Surimi Scramble with Eggs and Green Onions

Surimi Scramble with Eggs and Green Onions
Start your day with a protein-packed twist on traditional scrambled eggs.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups Surimi (imitation crab meat)
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped green onions
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil

Instructions:

1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until well-beaten.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the Surimi and cook for 2-3 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Pour in the eggs and stir gently to combine with the Surimi.
5. Continue cooking until the eggs are set, about 3-4 minutes more.
6. Stir in chopped green onions and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Surimi and Cucumber Tea Sandwiches

Surimi and Cucumber Tea Sandwiches
A refreshing twist on traditional tea sandwiches, these bite-sized treats combine the sweetness of surimi with the crunch of cucumber for a delightful afternoon snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of surimi ( imitation crab meat)
– 2 large cucumbers
– 4 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise or spread
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the surimi and a pinch of salt.
2. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading a layer of mayonnaise on each bread slice, followed by a small amount of surimi and a few cucumber slices.
4. Season with pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time:

– Preparation time: 10 minutes
– Assembly time: 5 minutes

Surimi Stir-Fry with Garlic and Ginger

Surimi Stir-Fry with Garlic and Ginger
This Asian-inspired stir-fry is a quick and easy way to add some flavor to your meal. With the combination of succulent surimi, aromatic garlic, and spicy ginger, this dish is sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup surimi ( imitation crab meat)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger and stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the surimi and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
4. Add the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Surimi and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Surimi and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this unique recipe that combines the creamy texture of surimi (imitation crab) with the nutty flavor of spinach. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package surimi, drained and flaked
– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine surimi, spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the surimi mixture and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the shells and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until shells are cooked through.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Surimi Louie Salad with Thousand Island Dressing

Surimi Louie Salad with Thousand Island Dressing
This classic salad combines the creamy sweetness of surimi (imitation crab) with the tangy zip of Thousand Island dressing, making it a refreshing and satisfying side dish or light lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 package surimi louie
– 1/2 cup chopped iceberg lettuce
– 1/4 cup diced celery
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon Thousand Island dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the surimi louie, chopped lettuce, diced celery, and red bell pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the Thousand Island dressing until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Surimi and Asparagus Risotto

Surimi and Asparagus Risotto
A creamy and flavorful take on traditional risotto, this recipe combines the tender chunks of surimi with the freshness of asparagus and a hint of parmesan cheese.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 pound surimi, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add wine (if using) and stir until absorbed. Then add 1/2 cup broth and stir until absorbed. Repeat process until all broth is used.
4. Stir in surimi and asparagus. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
5. Remove from heat and stir in parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: approximately 30-40 minutes

Surimi Tacos with Chipotle Mayo

Surimi Tacos with Chipotle Mayo
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this unique taco recipe, featuring surimi (imitation crab) and a spicy chipotle mayo.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb surimi (imitation crab), flaked
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine surimi, mayonnaise, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Assemble the tacos by spooning the surimi mixture onto a warmed tortilla.
4. Drizzle chipotle mayo (see below) over the top, if desired.
5. Garnish with radishes, lime wedges, and cilantro, if desired.

Chipotle Mayo:

1. Combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1-2 tsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, and a squeeze of lime juice. Mix well.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Cooking Time: None (most ingredients are pre-cooked or prepared)

Surimi and Sweet Corn Fritters

Surimi and Sweet Corn Fritters
These crispy fritters are packed with the flavor of surimi, a type of fish-based protein, and sweet corn. They’re perfect as an appetizer or snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup surimi, flaked
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 cup sweet corn kernels
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together surimi, flour, cornmeal, cheese, cilantro, sweet corn kernels, egg, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the mixture into the hot oil.
4. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Summary

Get ready to dive into a world of delicious seafood recipes featuring surimi, a versatile and sustainable alternative to traditional fish. From classic dishes like Surimi Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli and Garlic Butter Surimi Pasta to innovative creations such as Spicy Surimi and Avocado Sushi Rolls and Surimi Tacos with Chipotle Mayo, this article has got you covered. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of Creamy Surimi and Corn Chowder or a light and refreshing Surimi Salad with Mango and Cucumber, these 20 mouthwatering recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.

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