Holiday Seafood Spread Or Dip
A creamy, savory seafood dip with a hint of garlic and green onion, perfect for holiday gatherings, served with crackers or vegetables for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rub a mixing bowl with the garlic clove halves.
- Combine the softened cream cheese and Thousand Island dressing in the bowl and mix until well blended.
- Add the flaked crab meat, chopped green onion, salt, and pepper to the mixture.
- Mix everything well and chill in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.
- Serve with crackers or vegetable dippers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. If you prefer a different flavor, try substituting the Thousand Island dressing with ranch or a creamy dill dressing. Fresh crab meat can also be used instead of canned for enhanced freshness. This dip can be made ahead of time, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this flavorful dip with an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetable dippers like cucumber and bell peppers, or even toasted baguette slices. It pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine or a fresh salad, making it a great addition to any holiday gathering. For variations, consider offering alongside Easy Stuffed Ahi for more seafood options.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The dip can be enjoyed cold straight from the fridge, but if you prefer a softer consistency, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture of the cream cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Seafood Spread Or Dip contains roughly 343 calories, with 10g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2232mg per serving (97% 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 this dip in advance?
Yes, this dip can be made a day ahead of time. Chilling it overnight helps the flavors develop, making it even tastier. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
What can I substitute for crab meat?
If you don't have crab meat on hand, you can use canned tuna or shrimp as a substitute. Both options will still provide a delicious seafood flavor. For a vegetarian version, consider using finely chopped artichokes or even a mix of roasted vegetables.
How can I make this dip spicier?
To add some heat to your seafood dip, mix in a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños. You can also incorporate a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a smoky kick, while still keeping the overall flavor profile deliciously balanced.
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).