Laurie'S Crab Imperial
Laurie's Crab Imperial is a rich, flavorful seafood dish featuring lump crab meat combined with mayonnaise, green pepper, pimentos, and subtle spices, perfect for elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together, excluding crab meat.
- Gently toss in crab meat.
- Arrange the crab mixture in scallop baking shells.
- Top with additional mayonnaise.
- Garnish with red pimento.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using fresh crab meat for a more vibrant taste. If lump crab isn't available, claw meat can be a suitable substitute. For a lower-fat version, swap half of the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt. Ensure the mixture is gently combined to keep the crab meat intact, allowing for a more appealing presentation. For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Laurie’s Crab Imperial warm, garnished with fresh herbs or additional pimentos for color. Pair it with a light salad or crusty bread to balance the richness. It also works wonderfully as an appetizer or main dish alongside side dishes like garlic bread or steamed vegetables. This dish can be a delightful addition to any seafood recipes gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, place the crab imperial in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving to retain the texture of the crab.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Laurie'S Crab Imperial contains roughly 241 calories, with 4g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% 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 the crab imperial mixture in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time. Combine all ingredients except the crab meat, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, gently fold in the crab meat and proceed with the baking instructions.
What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can use soy sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a splash of vinegar as a substitute. This will provide a similar umami flavor, although the taste will be slightly different.
Can I add cheese to the crab imperial?
Yes, you can add a small amount of shredded cheese, like cheddar or Parmesan, to the mixture for extra flavor. Just be cautious not to overpower the delicate taste of the crab. A sprinkle on top before baking can also create a melty, delicious crust.
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).