Refreshing Melon & Crab Salad – Low-Carb & Gluten-Free
This diabetic-friendly, gluten-free, and pescatarian melon and crab salad is a refreshing blend of sweet cantaloupe, lean crab meat, and zesty lime. Ready in minutes and packed with protein, it's perfect for hot days or a light, flavourful starter.
- Suitable for diets:
- Dairy-Free
- Gluten Free
- Heart-Healthy
- Low-Carb
- Low-Fat
- Nut-Free
- Pescatarian
- Soy-Free
Why Diabetes Friendly?
- Low Glycemic Load: Cantaloupe has natural sugars but is balanced by high-fiber arugula and protein-rich crab.
- Lean Protein: Crab meat adds satiety and muscle-supporting protein without added saturated fat.
- No Added Sugars or Carbs: Entirely free of processed or refined carbohydrates.
- Healthy Fats: A small amount of olive oil adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Fresh Ingredients: Mint, lime, and arugula contribute antioxidants and phytonutrients beneficial for metabolic health.
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Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Citrus zester
Ingredients
- arugula 1 cup
- cantaloupe (cubed) 1 cup
- crab meat (drained) 1 cup
- red onion (finely chopped) 1 tbsp
- mint (finely chopped) 1 tbsp
- lime (zested) 1 tsp
- lime juice 1 tbsp
- olive oil 1 tsp
- rice vinegar 1 tsp
- salt 1 pinch
- pepper 1 pinch
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Cooking Tips
- Use Fresh or Pasteurized Crab: Lump crab or claw meat works well; avoid imitation crab for diabetic and gluten-free diets.
- Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad marinate for a few minutes enhances flavour and texture.
- Melon Options: Honeydew or watermelon can be substituted, but monitor sugar content for diabetes management.
- Balance Flavors: Taste before serving—you can increase lime juice or mint for brightness.
- Presentation Tip: Serve in chilled bowls or lettuce cups for an elegant touch.
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Instructions
- In a bowl, gently combine arugula, cantaloupe, crab meat, red onion, mint, lime zest, lime juice, olive oil, and vinegar. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Let sit for 5–10 minutes to marinate.1 cup arugula, 1 cup cantaloupe, 1 cup crab meat, 1 tbsp red onion, 1 tbsp mint, 1 tsp lime, 1 tbsp lime juice, 1 tsp olive oil, 1 tsp rice vinegar, 1 pinch salt, 1 pinch pepper
- Garnish with mint and serve chilled.
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FAQ
- Is this salad diabetic-friendly?
Yes, it contains low-GI ingredients, lean protein, and no added sugars—ideal for stable blood glucose levels. - Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep and combine ingredients, but add arugula just before serving to keep it crisp. - Can I use canned crab meat?
Yes, just make sure it’s well-drained and preferably low-sodium. - What if I don't like cantaloupe?
Try substituting with honeydew, cucumber, or even jicama for a similar crunch with lower sugar. - Is it suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, it’s low in carbs and sugar, especially when portioned mindfully.
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Nutrition
Per serving
Calories: 143kcal
Carbohydrates: 24.3g
Fiber: 2.1g
Sugar: 9.8g
Fat: 2.2g
Saturated Fat: 0.3g
Trans Fat:
Protein: 6.1g
Nutrition Facts
Refreshing Melon & Crab Salad – Low-Carb & Gluten-Free
Serving Size
1.5 cup
Amount per Serving
Calories
143
% Daily Value*
Fat
2.2
g
3
%
Saturated Fat
0.3
g
2
%
Cholesterol
9.9
mg
3
%
Sodium
553.1
mg
24
%
Potassium
194.6
mg
6
%
Carbohydrates
24.3
g
8
%
Fiber
2.1
g
9
%
Sugar
9.8
g
11
%
Protein
6.1
g
12
%
Vitamin C
13.9
mg
17
%
Calcium
32.2
mg
3
%
Iron
0.6
mg
3
%
Magnesium
18.4
mg
5
%
Zinc
0.4
mg
3
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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