Crabmeat Crepes
Crabmeat crepes offer a delicate balance of tender crepes filled with a rich, savory crab and mushroom filling, accented by fresh herbs and a hint of lemon. Perfect for brunch or light dinner, this dish showcases luxurious flavors with a light, airy texture that appeals to seafood lovers.
Ingredients
- vegetable cooking spray ⓘ
- 2 tsp reduced-calorie margarine
- 1 1/3 cups sliced fresh mushrooms ⓘ
- 1 cup chopped green onions ⓘ
- 1 tsp dried whole thyme
- 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour ⓘ
- 1 cup skim milk
- 1 lb fresh lump crabmeat ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley ⓘ
- 2 tsp lemon juice ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp salt ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp dry mustard ⓘ
- 1/8 tsp ground red pepper
- light crepes ⓘ
Instructions
- Coat a large nonstick skillet with vegetable cooking spray and add 2 teaspoons of reduced-calorie margarine.
- Place over medium-high heat until the margarine melts.
- Add the sliced fresh mushrooms, chopped green onions, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme; saute for 2 to 3 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add 1 cup of skim milk, stirring constantly.
- Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and becomes bubbly.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 pound of drained fresh lump crabmeat, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, 2 teaspoons lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard, and 1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper.
- Fill light crepes with the crab mixture, roll or fold as desired, and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using a low-fat cream cheese instead of margarine. You can also substitute the fresh lump crabmeat with canned crabmeat if fresh is unavailable. Adding a splash of white wine while sautéing the vegetables can enhance the flavor profile. For added texture, try incorporating some diced bell peppers or spinach into the filling. This dish pairs beautifully with Tangy Red Fish for a complete seafood experience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the crabmeat crepes with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A drizzle of lemon butter sauce can elevate the dish further. Pair with a crisp white wine or a refreshing sparkling water for a delightful dining experience. These crepes also make an excellent appetizer or brunch option, especially when accompanied by Zippy Tuna Dip or Fresh Cooked Shrimp.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover crabmeat crepes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, use a microwave; just be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the crepes tough. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crabmeat Crepes contains roughly 480 calories, with 14g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (43% of the Daily Value), protein (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 539mg per serving (23% 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 make the crepes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crepes in advance and store them in the refrigerator, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. When ready to use, simply fill them with the crab mixture and heat through. This saves time and makes for a quick assembly when serving guests.
What can I substitute for crabmeat?
If crabmeat is not available, you can substitute it with cooked shrimp or even shredded chicken for a different flavor profile. Adjust the seasonings accordingly to complement the substitute. Both options can work well in this recipe, maintaining a delicious taste.
How do I know when the filling is cooked properly?
The filling is properly cooked when it is heated through and thickened, typically taking around 5-7 minutes over medium heat after adding the milk. Ensure that the mixture bubbles gently and coats the back of a spoon. The addition of crabmeat should be done off the heat to prevent overcooking.
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).