Artichoke And Crab Spread
A creamy, savory artichoke and crab spread with melted cheese, perfect for serving with crackers or rye rounds at gatherings or as an appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute the sliced mushrooms and diced onion until tender.
- Add cooking wine or sherry and simmer for 1 minute.
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, grated Cheddar cheese, artichoke hearts, crabmeat, and the sautéed onion and mushrooms.
- Transfer the mixture to a quiche dish or large pie plate.
- Sprinkle paprika on top of the mixture.
- Bake in a 350°F oven until bubbly, about 25 minutes.
- Serve with rye rounds or crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a blend of fresh herbs like dill or parsley in the spread. If you can't find imitation crabmeat, real crab can be used instead for a more authentic taste. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise for a lighter version. Make sure to drain the artichoke hearts well to avoid excess moisture.
Serving Suggestions
This spread is best served warm and pairs beautifully with rye rounds or a selection of crackers. For a more substantial appetizer, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or alongside dishes like Chilled Seafood Lasagna With Herbed Cheese. It also works well as part of a seafood-focused buffet.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the spread in an oven-safe dish and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Artichoke And Crab Spread contains roughly 793 calories, with 21g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 70g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (60% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and iron (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1309mg per serving (57% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh crab instead of imitation crabmeat?
Yes, using fresh crab will enhance the flavor of the spread. Just make sure to break it into small pieces before mixing it with the other ingredients. Fresh crab adds a delightful sweetness and texture, making the dish even more special.
What type of cheese can I use instead of Cheddar?
You can substitute with Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a milder flavor, or use a smoked cheese for a unique twist. Cream cheese can also be added for a richer texture. Just keep in mind that the cheese should melt well to create a creamy spread.
Can this spread be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to serve, simply pop it in the oven and bake until bubbly for a quick and easy appetizer.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).