A refreshing and creamy pasta salad featuring crab meat, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
Rinsing the pasta with cold water stops the cooking process and prevents it from sticking together.
Chop the crab meat into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Using fresh crab meat enhances the flavor of the salad.
Dice the onion and tomatoes, then add them to the mixing bowl with the crab meat.
For a milder onion flavor, soak the diced onion in cold water for a few minutes before adding.
In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more paprika for a smoky flavor.
Combine the cooked pasta, crab meat, vegetables, and dressing in the large mixing bowl, stirring gently to coat evenly.
Mix gently to avoid breaking the crab meat or pasta.
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Chilling allows the flavors to meld together for a more cohesive taste.
Serve the salad in individual bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika or fresh herbs if desired.
Serving in chilled bowls keeps the salad cool and refreshing.