Crab Squares
Crab Squares are delightful bite-sized appetizers featuring flaky crabmeat on toasted bread squares, topped with a creamy, tangy mixture. Perfect for parties and seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove crust from bread slices and lightly toast one side of each slice.
- Cut each toasted slice into 4 squares and set aside.
- Drain and flake canned or frozen crabmeat and place in a medium bowl.
- In a second bowl, combine crabmeat, mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced onion, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Beat egg white until stiff but not dry, then fold into crab mixture.
- Spoon about 2 teaspoons of the crab mixture onto the untoasted side of each bread square.
- Preheat the oven and place the oven rack 5 to 8 inches from the heating element.
- Place the bread squares in a broiler pan.
- Broil for 4 to 5 minutes until the tops are browned and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like dill or parsley in the crab mixture. If you don't have mayonnaise, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for a lighter option. You can also switch out the crabmeat for canned tuna if desired, similar to the Tuna Pick-Ups. Toasting the bread lightly helps prevent it from becoming soggy when broiled.
Serving Suggestions
Serve crab squares as an appetizer or party snack, and they pair wonderfully with a light salad or a dipping sauce like cocktail sauce for extra flavor. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside a bowl of creamy tomato soup. They also complement well with other seafood recipes, making them a great choice for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover crab squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the bread chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab Squares contains roughly 54 calories, with 1g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 crabmeat?
Absolutely! Fresh crabmeat can enhance the flavor of the dish. Make sure to cook and cool the crab before flaking it into the mixture. Just remember to adjust the seasoning as fresh crab can be more delicate in flavor compared to canned options.
How can I make these crab squares spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the crab mixture. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce on the side for an extra kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crab mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before assembling the crab squares. Just assemble the squares right before baking to ensure they remain crispy and fresh. This makes them a convenient option for entertaining.
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).