Hot Dungeness Crab Appetizer
A rich, creamy crab appetizer with artichokes and Parmesan, perfect for entertaining. Warmed to perfection, it offers a delicious blend of seafood and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop artichoke hearts into 1/4-inch pieces and drain well.
- Drain the Dungeness crabmeat.
- Combine mayonnaise, crabmeat, artichoke hearts, Parmesan cheese, and sliced onion; mix well.
- Place the mixture in an oven-safe, shallow baking dish.
- Heat in a 350°F oven for 6 to 8 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 140°F.
- Garnish with minced parsley.
- Serve with assorted breads.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier dip, consider adding a bit of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture. If Dungeness crab is unavailable, lump crabmeat or even imitation crab can work in a pinch. To enhance flavor, add a touch of garlic powder or a squeeze of lemon juice. This dish is often a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, making it a great choice for parties alongside other seafood recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This hot Dungeness crab appetizer is perfect for serving alongside assorted breads like baguette slices or crackers. It also pairs well with a fresh green salad or vegetable platter for a balanced spread. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it with a side of creamy pasta or a light soup, which complements the richness of the crab dip.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dip in an oven-safe dish and warm it in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may cause the dip to become rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Dungeness Crab Appetizer contains roughly 557 calories, with 9g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 803mg per serving (35% 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 crab dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance. Just combine all the ingredients and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply bake it until heated through. This makes it a convenient option for gatherings and helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, Greek yogurt can be used instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version. It will give the dip a tangy flavor while still maintaining creaminess. You could also try blending in some avocado for a unique twist.
Is it possible to freeze the crab dip?
Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the crab and mayonnaise. However, if you must freeze it, ensure it's in a tightly sealed container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, but be aware that the dip may be less creamy once thawed.
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).