Seafood Salad

Prepare the Seafood: If using imitation crab, coarsely chop or flake it into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large mixing bowl.⁵ If using raw shrimp, you will need to cook it first (see Tips section below). If using pre-cooked shrimp, chop any larger pieces to roughly the same size as the crab flakes and add it to the bowl.
Add the Vegetables and Herbs: Add the finely diced celery, minced red onion, chopped fresh dill, and any optional bell pepper to the bowl with the seafood.
Make the Dressing: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients: mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, Worcestershire sauce (if using), and garlic powder (if using). Season generously with salt and pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
Combine and Toss: Pour the creamy dressing over the seafood and vegetable mixture.⁶ Gently fold all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated in the dressing. Be careful not to over-mix, which can break up the seafood too much.
Chill (Crucial Step): Cover the bowl and refrigerate the seafood salad for at least ⁷ $1$ hour.⁸ Chilling allows the flavors to fully develop and meld together, significantly improving the taste and texture.⁹
Serve: Taste the chilled salad and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh dill before serving.