Herbed Crabmeat
A delicate herbed crabmeat dish with fresh herbs and lemon, perfect for elegant appetizers or light snacks on toast points, appealing to seafood lovers and entertaining hosts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pick over crabmeat to remove all shells and cartilage.
- Heat the margarine until it bubbles and cook crabmeat in it until just heated through.
- Season crabmeat with salt, pepper, lemon juice, chopped chives, chopped parsley, and fresh tarragon if using.
- Serve on toast points and garnish with lemon wedges.
Tips & Substitutions
For better flavor, use fresh crabmeat if possible, as it enhances the dish significantly compared to canned. If you don't have chives, green onions can be a good substitute. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. This recipe can serve as a great filling for the Party Crabmeat Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Herbed Crabmeat on toasted bread or toast points for a delightful appetizer. It pairs well with a crisp green salad or a side of lemon-dressed asparagus. For a more filling meal, consider adding it to pasta for a seafood twist, similar to the Thumper'S Tuna-Noodle Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the crabmeat from becoming tough. You can also enjoy it cold as a delightful topping on crackers or in a seafood salad.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herbed Crabmeat contains roughly 299 calories, with 22g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (177% of the Daily Value), calcium (81% of the Daily Value), and potassium (65% of the Daily Value). At about 299 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 frozen crabmeat for this recipe?
Yes, frozen crabmeat can be used, but ensure it's fully thawed and drained before cooking. Fresh crabmeat offers a superior taste and texture, but frozen is a convenient alternative if fresh isn't available. Just keep in mind to check for shells carefully.
What can I substitute for margarine?
Butter is an excellent substitute for margarine, providing a richer flavor. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, use olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Both will work well in this recipe, maintaining the dish's overall taste.
Is the tarragon necessary for flavor?
While fresh tarragon adds a unique flavor, it is optional. If you don't have it on hand, you can omit it or substitute with a bit of dill or thyme for a different herbal note. The other ingredients will still provide a deliciously herbed profile.
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).