I’ve always had a soft spot for Subway’s Seafood Sensation, so I finally tried making my own version at home.
The mix of crab-style seafood, creamy mayo, and just a hint of seasoning makes it one of those sandwiches that feels fresh and comforting at the same time.
I love that I can pile it onto soft bread, add crisp lettuce and tomatoes, and make it exactly the way I want. It’s quick to put together, easy to customize, and honestly, it tastes just as good—maybe even better—than the one I used to order on the go.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Seafood Sensation copycat is creamy, savory, and packed with flavor. You’ll love that it comes together in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for quick lunches.
It’s also versatile: serve it in a sandwich, as a salad topping, or with crackers for a snack.
Since you’re making it at home, you can adjust the mayo for creaminess, add extra seasoning, or load it up with fresh veggies. It’s a recipe that feels indulgent but is still light and refreshing.
What You’ll Need
- 1 pound imitation crab meat (surimi), shredded or chopped
- ½ cup small cooked shrimp, chopped (optional for extra flavor)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or paprika if preferred)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
For assembling sandwiches:
- 4 sub rolls or hoagie rolls
- Lettuce, shredded
- Tomato slices
- Cucumber slices
- Onion slices
- Pickles (optional)
Pro Tips
- Shred imitation crab with your hands for a better texture than chopping.
- Chill the seafood salad for 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
- Use fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
- Toast sub rolls lightly for sturdier sandwiches.
- Add veggies just before serving so they stay crisp.
Tools Required
- Large mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Plastic wrap for chilling salad
Substitutions & Variations
- Use all crab or all shrimp if you prefer one over the other.
- Replace mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Add a splash of hot sauce for a spicier sandwich.
- Use brioche buns, pita pockets, or wraps instead of sub rolls.
- Stir in chopped celery or green onions for added crunch.
Make-Ahead Tips
The seafood salad can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Just stir it before using, as the mayo may separate slightly. Sandwiches are best assembled right before serving to keep the bread and veggies fresh.
Instructions
1. Prepare seafood salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded imitation crab, chopped shrimp (if using), mayonnaise, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
2. Chill
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
3. Prep bread and veggies
Slice sub rolls and lightly toast if desired. Prepare lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and onion slices.
4. Assemble sandwiches
Spread a generous portion of seafood salad onto each roll. Top with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, onions, and pickles if desired.
5. Serve
Slice sandwiches in half and serve immediately with chips or a pickle on the side.
Serving Suggestions
This seafood sensation sandwich pairs perfectly with potato chips, French fries, or a simple green salad.
It’s also great alongside a cup of soup for a light dinner. For parties, you can make mini versions on slider buns or serve the seafood salad with crackers as a dip.
Leftovers & Storage
The seafood salad will keep in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Stir before serving to refresh the mixture. Avoid freezing, as the mayo-based dressing won’t hold up well after thawing.
Nutrition & Benefits
Imitation crab and shrimp provide protein with fewer calories than heavier meats. Shrimp also adds omega-3s and important minerals like selenium.
Lemon juice and seasonings give flavor without adding extra fat, while fresh veggies boost fiber and vitamins. This recipe is a good example of how a creamy, indulgent sandwich can still feel fresh and balanced.
Recipe FAQ
1. What is imitation crab made of?
It’s typically made from white fish (like pollock) mixed with starch and flavoring.
2. Do I have to use shrimp?
No, you can make it with just imitation crab if you prefer.
3. Can I make this healthier?
Yes, swap mayo for Greek yogurt or light mayo and load up on veggies.
4. What bread works best?
Soft sub rolls or hoagie rolls, but wraps or pita bread work well too.
5. Can I serve this without bread?
Absolutely — serve over lettuce as a salad or with crackers as a dip.
A Taste of Nostalgia
This Subway Seafood Sensation copycat is creamy, flavorful, and full of nostalgic charm. It’s an easy recipe that brings back the beloved sandwich, and it’s versatile enough to serve in subs, wraps, or salads.
With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy a taste of the past while creating something fresh for your family today.
So grab some crab, whip up the salad, and treat yourself to this throwback favorite. I’d love to hear how you served it — did you make it as a sub, a wrap, or maybe as a dip? Share your version and keep the flavor going.
