Lib'S Crab Appetizer
A creamy and flavorful crab appetizer layered with onions and topped with fresh herbs. The combination of tangy ketchup, spicy horseradish, and Worcestershire sauce creates a bold, savory profile that pairs perfectly with crackers. Ideal for parties and gatherings, it offers a delightful seafood twist that guests will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread cream cheese on the bottom of a platter.
- Cover with the chopped onions.
- Sprinkle Worcestershire sauce over the onions.
- Mix ketchup, horseradish, and Tabasco sauce and spoon over the layered ingredients.
- Top with the crab.
- Sprinkle a little lemon juice over the crab.
- Finish off with chopped parsley.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before spreading. If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce can be an alternative. For a spicier kick, increase the horseradish or add more Tabasco. This dish is versatile; consider adding diced bell peppers for extra crunch or using shrimp instead of crab for a variation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this crab appetizer with an assortment of crackers for a delightful crunch. It pairs beautifully with the refreshing Shoestring Salad, enhancing the seafood flavors. For a complete spread, consider offering a variety of dips like Diamond Jubilee Dip or Hot Shrimp Salad Or Scallop Appetizer alongside it.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the mixture in a microwave, avoiding overheating to prevent the cream cheese from separating. This dish is best enjoyed cold, so consider serving it straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lib'S Crab Appetizer contains roughly 123 calories, with 13g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (66% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), and potassium (34% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 504mg per serving (22% 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 use canned crab meat for this recipe?
Yes, canned crab meat works well in this recipe. Just make sure to drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture. Fresh crab can enhance the flavor, but canned is a convenient and tasty alternative that still delivers a delicious result.
How can I make this appetizer ahead of time?
You can prepare all the layers in advance and assemble them just before serving. Spread the cream cheese and onions, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Just before serving, add the crab and remaining toppings to keep them fresh.
What kind of crackers should I serve with this dish?
Opt for sturdy crackers like water crackers or buttery Ritz for a nice contrast to the creamy texture. Whole grain or herb-flavored crackers also add an interesting twist and pair well with the seafood flavors of this appetizer.
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).