Cream Cheese And Crab Spread
A creamy crab and cream cheese spread with a hint of lemon and heat, topped with almonds, perfect for entertaining or a flavorful appetizer with crackers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small mixer bowl, beat the cream cheese, reserved crab liquid, minced green onions, lemon juice, salt, and hot pepper sauce until creamy.
- Stir in the chopped crab meat and turn the mixture into a shallow, greased 3-cup baking dish.
- Sprinkle sliced unblanched almonds on top.
- Bake uncovered in a preheated 350°F oven for 20 to 30 minutes or until bubbly.
- Serve hot with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of hot pepper sauce. You can substitute the crab meat with shrimp or even canned tuna for different variations. Also, consider toasting the almonds lightly before adding them for enhanced flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious spread warm with a selection of crackers or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping. It pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or can be served as a part of a seafood platter. For a fuller meal, consider serving it alongside baked flounder roll-ups or other seafood recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover crab spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a baking dish and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese And Crab Spread contains roughly 96 calories, with 2g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (10% 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 meat instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh crab meat can be used instead of frozen. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid before mixing it into the spread. Fresh crab will provide a more vibrant flavor, making the dish even more delightful.
What can I do if I don't have hot pepper sauce?
If you don't have hot pepper sauce, you can substitute it with a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for heat. Alternatively, you can use a mild salsa to add flavor without too much spice, adjusting to your taste preference.
Is this recipe suitable for making ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the spread a day in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to bake it fresh before serving to enjoy the bubbly, warm texture.
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).