Crabmeat And Shrimp Plate
A flavorful seafood appetizer featuring creamy crabmeat and shrimp layered with cocktail sauce, perfect for sharing at parties or as a light, elegant starter.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese and spread it evenly on a 9 or 10-inch plate.
- Cover the cream cheese with half or three-quarters of the seafood cocktail sauce.
- Sprinkle the drained shrimp and crabmeat over the sauce.
- Optionally, sprinkle shredded cheese on top and chill the dish.
- Serve with a knife or spread on Ritz or Town House crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whipped cream cheese instead of regular. You can substitute fresh shrimp for canned if you prefer a fresher taste; just boil and cool them before use. Adding a dash of lemon juice to the seafood cocktail sauce can enhance the flavor. If you're looking for a more robust dish, try incorporating some herbs or spices inspired by American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect as an appetizer for gatherings and pairs beautifully with Ritz or Town House crackers. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a light salad or some fresh vegetable sticks. It also complements well with other seafood recipes, such as Boiled Shrimp Salad or Warm Shrimp And Artichoke Spread, for a delightful seafood platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, avoid freezing the dish, as cream cheese can separate when thawed. When ready to enjoy again, serve cold directly from the fridge, or let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crabmeat And Shrimp Plate contains roughly 315 calories, with 7g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 632mg per serving (27% 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 crabmeat instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh crabmeat will provide a more delicate flavor and texture. Make sure to pick through it to remove any shells before using. Fresh crabmeat can elevate the dish, making it a perfect addition for special occasions.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Yes, you can add a few dashes of hot sauce to the seafood cocktail sauce for a kick. Alternatively, mixing in some diced jalapeños or sprinkling cayenne pepper on top will enhance the heat without overpowering the dish's flavors.
What can I serve as a side dish?
Consider serving a light green salad with a vinaigrette, which complements the richness of the crabmeat and shrimp. Alternatively, a chilled vegetable platter with hummus or a tangy dip can provide a refreshing contrast to the flavors of the main dish.
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).