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Crab with Cantaloupe and Caviar – Sea Salad

This elegant crab and cantaloupe sea salad is a sophisticated choice for a light lunch or an impressive dinner party starter. Combining the delicate sweetness of fresh coastal crab with the refreshing notes of Tuscan melon, this heart-healthy dish offers a beautiful balance of flavours and textures. The addition of creamy avocado provides a rich contrast to the zesty shallot and mustard vinaigrette, creating a vibrant plate that is as nutritious as it is visually stunning.

As a dairy-free and nutrient-dense starter, this recipe focuses on high-quality ingredients and simple preparation. The sturgeon caviar adds a final touch of luxury, making it a wonderful option for special occasions or summer entertaining. Serve it chilled to appreciate the clean, crisp flavours of the sea alongside the ripe, seasonal fruit.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Crab with Cantaloupe and Caviar – Sea Salad

  • 2 tablespoons champagne vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon minced shallot

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

  • 60ml extra virgin olive oil

  • 60ml canola oil

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

  • 900g fresh crabmeat, cooked, shelled, and picked

  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

  • 1 bunch chives, chopped

  • Fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

  • 1 Tuscan cantaloupe, peeled, seeded, and cut into chunks

  • 2 avocados, peeled, seeded, and sliced

  • 30g caviar (Sturgeon royal)

How to make Crab with Cantaloupe and Caviar – Sea Salad

To make the vinaigrette, whisk together the vinegar, shallot, and mustard in a bowl. Slowly pour in the oils, whisking until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper.

Squeeze any excess water out of the crabmeat. Place the crab in a mixing bowl with the mayonnaise, vinaigrette, and chives, and season with salt and pepper. Mix together well and set aside. Purée the cantaloupe in a blender.

For each serving, place 2 tablespoons of the cantaloupe purée in the centre of the plate. Place a ring mold on top and fill with a layer of sliced avocado and then crab. Place a dollop of caviar on top of the crab to complete.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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