Pizza Look Crab Spread
A creamy crab spread with chili sauce and herbs, perfect for entertaining or snacking, offering a savory, spicy, and flavorful appetizer that pairs well with crackers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the cream cheese until soft; add chopped onion, garlic salt, and lemon juice.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture thinly on a platter or dinner plate.
- Pour chili sauce over the cream cheese layer and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle drained crab meat on top of the chili sauce.
- Garnish with parsley flakes.
- Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight before serving.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese to sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing. If you don't have crab meat, you can substitute with canned tuna or even shredded chicken for a different flavor. Adjust the chili sauce to your taste; if you prefer a milder spread, use a sweet chili sauce. Consider adding diced bell peppers for extra crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful crab spread with an assortment of crackers or toasted baguette slices for dipping. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or vegetable platter for a complete appetizer spread. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside the 'No Bake' Oyster Crackers for a unique seafood pairing.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish does not freeze well due to the cream cheese. When ready to serve again, it's best enjoyed cold, so no reheating is necessary. Simply take it out of the fridge and serve with fresh crackers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pizza Look Crab Spread contains roughly 273 calories, with 4g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 imitation crab meat instead of real crab meat?
Yes, imitation crab meat can be used as a budget-friendly alternative. While it may not have the same flavor as real crab, it will still provide a similar texture. Just be sure to drain it well before adding to the spread.
How long should I let the spread sit before serving?
For the best flavor, it's recommended to refrigerate the spread overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together. If you're short on time, aim for at least 2-3 hours in the fridge before serving.
Can I add other ingredients to the spread?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your spread by adding ingredients like diced jalapeños for heat, or chopped bell peppers for sweetness and crunch. Fresh herbs like dill or chives also make a great addition for extra flavor.
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).