Crab Ring
Crab Ring is a creamy, savory seafood dip with a delicate gelatine ring presentation, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying as a main dish with crackers or celery.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, dissolve gelatine in 3 tablespoons water.
- Add cream of mushroom soup and cream cheese, and let melt slowly over low heat, stirring until smooth.
- Remove from heat and add crab meat, mayonnaise, chopped celery, chopped green onions, and lemon juice.
- Pour the mixture into a ring mold.
- Chill overnight or until set. Serve with crackers or celery as a dip, or as a main dish.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or Worcestershire sauce to the mixture. If you're short on crab meat, canned tuna can be a suitable substitute. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. Ensure the gelatine is fully dissolved to achieve a smooth texture. This dish can be served as an elegant appetizer or part of a seafood buffet.
Serving Suggestions
This crab ring pairs beautifully with crackers or fresh celery sticks for dipping. For a complete meal, serve alongside a fresh salad or with the light and zesty Moonlight Salad Dressing. It also makes a delightful centerpiece for a seafood-themed gathering, allowing guests to share and enjoy together.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. If the crab ring begins to lose its shape, you can carefully re-mold it on a serving platter. For best taste and texture, enjoy it cold straight from the fridge rather than reheating, as it is designed to be served chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab Ring contains roughly 326 calories, with 3g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (12% of the Daily Value) and iron (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 599mg per serving (26% 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 canned?
Yes, you can use 1/2 lb. of fresh crab meat instead of canned. Just ensure it's cooked and ready to be incorporated into your mixture. Fresh crab will give a more vibrant flavor and texture, making the dish even more enjoyable.
How long should I chill the crab ring?
Chill the crab ring overnight for best results, allowing the gelatine to set properly. If you're short on time, a minimum of 4 hours may suffice, but the texture may not be as firm. The longer it chills, the better the flavors meld together.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! This crab ring is perfect for making in advance. Prepare it the day before your event and let it chill overnight. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent any absorption of other odors from the refrigerator. It will be a hit at your gathering!
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).