This buttery, easy surimi fish is a seasoned version that is ready in minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, quick appetizers, or alongside a baked potato, rice or pasta.
If you’ve ever wanted a quick and flavorful way to enjoy surimi fish, this recipe is it! Surimi (sometimes called imitation crab) is already cooked, which means all you really need to do is add flavor and heat it through.
We love how the blend of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning pairs with the sweetness of brown sugar and brightness of lemon juice. The butter ties it all together, creating a savory glaze that makes the surimi taste like a gourmet seafood dish with almost no effort.
What We Love About This Recipe
- Quick and Easy. Ready in less than 15 minutes.
- Budget-Friendly. Surimi is an affordable alternative to fresh crab.
- Versatile. Serve it as a snack, appetizer, or main dish.
- Family Favorite. Mild, buttery flavor that appeals to both kids and adults.
What is Surimi Fish?
If you’ve ever enjoyed a California roll at a sushi restaurant or picked up a package of imitation crab from the store, chances are you’ve eaten surimi.
Surimi is a fish paste made from white fish. Commonly Alaska pollock and Pacific whiting. Blended with starch, sugar, sodium, and other ingredients to help with texture and flavor. The paste is then molded and colored to resemble real crab meat.
Because it’s already cooked, surimi is incredibly convenient and only needs to be heated or added to your favorite recipes. It’s mild in flavor, affordable, and versatile. Great for everything from quick weeknight dinners to party appetizers.
Easy Surimi Fish Recipe with Butter and Seasonings
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Ingredients
- 12 Ounces Surimi Fish 1 package Imitation Crab Sticks or Flakes
- 1 Teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 Teaspoon Paprika
- 1 Tablespoon Brown Sugar
- 1 Teaspoon Lemon Juice
- 1 Teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- 4 Tablespoons Butter ½ stick
Instructions
- In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.4 Tablespoons Butter
- Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, brown sugar, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning until the butter mixture is smooth and fragrant.1 Teaspoon Onion Powder, 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder, 1 Teaspoon Paprika, 1 Tablespoon Brown Sugar, 1 Teaspoon Lemon Juice, 1 Teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- Add the surimi fish and gently toss to coat with the seasoned butter.12 Ounces Surimi Fish
- Cook for 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the surimi is heated through and lightly caramelized.
- Serve warm, with an extra squeeze of extra lemon if desired.
Your Own Private Notes
Nutrition
Tips & Variations
- Spicy Kick. Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat.
- Herb Swap. Try fresh dill, parsley, or cilantro instead of Italian seasoning.
- Extra Citrus. Use lime juice instead of lemon for a zesty twist.
- Make It Creamy. Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end for a rich sauce.
- Keep it Buttery. Sometimes, my mom skips the seasonings and just caramelizes the fish in butter.
Serving Suggestions
- As an Appetizer. Serve with toothpicks or over crackers.
- With Potatoes, Rice or Pasta. A quick protein addition to simple sides.
- In Tacos. Add to soft tortillas with cabbage slaw and lime crema.
- On a Salad. A tasty seafood topping for greens.
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet with a little extra butter to avoid drying out.
This buttery surimi fish recipe is one of my favorite quick seafood dishes. It’s easy, affordable, and flexible enough to enjoy in so many ways. Perfect for when you need a flavorful meal without a lot of fuss.
I just love this easy fish recipe.