Creamy Crabmeat Canapes
Creamy crabmeat canapes offer a delightful blend of tender crab, crisp cucumber, and tangy seasonings on toasted bread, perfect for elegant appetizers or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine softened cream cheese, horseradish, lemon juice, and onion salt, mixing well until blended.
- Stir in crabmeat and chopped, peeled cucumber.
- Split the French bread loaves lengthwise.
- Spread each half with oleo (margarine or butter).
- Top each with the crabmeat mixture.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute low-fat cream cheese and use Greek yogurt instead of oleo. Fresh herbs like dill or chives can enhance flavor. If you can't find flaked crabmeat, canned tuna or shredded cooked chicken make a suitable swap. Always check seafood for quality and freshness; using frozen crabmeat can also work well if thawed properly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these canapes as a delightful appetizer at parties or gatherings. They pair wonderfully with a light white wine or a crisp salad. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Tomato-Tuna Chowder for a refreshing seafood-themed dinner. Garnish with lemon wedges for a pop of color and added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover crabmeat mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you have leftover canapes, they can be stored tightly wrapped in plastic wrap but are best eaten fresh. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, but be aware that the bread may lose its crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Crabmeat Canapes contains roughly 322 calories, with 8g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 466mg per serving (20% 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 prepare these canapes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crabmeat mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the canapes just before serving to ensure the bread remains crisp. This makes it a perfect appetizer for busy hosts.
What type of bread works best for this recipe?
French bread is ideal for its crusty exterior and soft interior, which hold the crabmeat mixture well. However, you can also use baguette slices or even toasted pita bread for a different texture and flavor profile.
Can I use fresh crab instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh crab will elevate the dish with its delicate flavor and texture. Just ensure it's cooked and shredded properly before mixing it into your canape mixture. This option is perfect for seafood lovers looking for a more gourmet touch.
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).