Crab Thermidor(Low Calorie)
Crab Thermidor offers a rich, creamy seafood dish with a hint of nutmeg and paprika, perfect for elegant dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F about 30 minutes before serving.
- Toast bread slices in the oven until golden brown, then turn and toast the other side.
- Meanwhile, melt margarine in a medium saucepan.
- Stir in flour, stirring constantly to make a roux.
- Slowly add half and half, stirring until thickened and smooth.
- Stir in salt, nutmeg, paprika, pepper, garlic salt, and sherry.
- Add the drained crab meat and heat, stirring, to a simmer.
- Turn the mixture into a 1-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle with cheese and place under the broiler until the cheese melts and is golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lower-calorie option, consider using light margarine and reducing the amount of half and half. If you can't find king crab, imitation lobster or other seafood options can be great substitutes. When making the roux, ensure you stir constantly to avoid burning. Adding a splash of lemon juice before serving can enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Crab Thermidor with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with Stuffed Peppers With Crawfish Or Stuffed Heads For Bisque for a seafood feast. For a more filling experience, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or a side of rice.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crab Thermidor(Low Calorie) contains roughly 142 calories, with 4g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1906mg per serving (83% 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 frozen or canned?
Yes, fresh crab can be used in this recipe. You'll need about 12 ounces of fresh crab meat. Just be sure to cook it properly before adding it to the sauce to ensure food safety and enhance flavor.
Is there a gluten-free option for the flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. If using cornstarch, mix it with water to make a slurry before adding it to the sauce to achieve the same thickness without gluten.
What can I serve as a side dish?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, but for something light, consider a simple green salad or roasted asparagus. For a heartier accompaniment, try garlic bread or a creamy risotto to complement the richness of the Crab Thermidor.
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).