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Garlic Butter Crab Toasts Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 104 reviews

Garlic Butter Crab Toasts feature fresh, tender crab meat blended with fragrant garlic butter, fresh herbs, and a hint of lemon, all served atop crispy toasted baguette slices. This elegant appetizer or snack combines rich flavors and a satisfying crunch for a delightful bite that’s perfect for entertaining or a sophisticated snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Crab Mixture

  • 1 pound fresh crab meat (preferably Dungeness or blue crabs)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped chives
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Bread and Toppings

  • 1 loaf French baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch slices
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Crab Meat: If you have fresh crabs, steam them for about 10 minutes until the shells turn bright red. Let the crabs cool before carefully extracting the meat, being sure to remove any shell fragments to keep the mixture smooth and enjoyable.
  2. Prepare the Garlic Butter: Melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, making sure not to let the garlic burn, which can impart a bitter taste.
  3. Mix the Crab Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the fresh crab meat with the melted garlic butter, lemon juice, chopped parsley, chives, salt, and pepper. Gently fold the ingredients to maintain the delicate texture of the crab while allowing the flavors to meld.
  4. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for toasting the baguette and baking the assembled toasts.
  5. Prepare and Toast the Baguette: Arrange the sliced baguette pieces on a baking sheet. Brush each side lightly with olive oil for a crispy, flavorful toast. Place in the preheated oven and toast for 5 to 7 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp at the edges.
  6. Assemble the Toasts: Remove the toasted baguette slices from the oven. Spoon a generous amount of the crab mixture onto each slice, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
  7. Add Cheese (Optional): If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the crab topping for an extra layer of savory richness.
  8. Final Bake: Return the assembled toasts to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes. This step warms the crab mixture through and gently melts the Parmesan cheese if used.
  9. Garnish and Serve: After baking, remove the toasts from the oven and sprinkle them lightly with paprika to add a pop of color and a subtle smoky flavor. Serve immediately while warm to enjoy the perfect combination of crispy bread and flavorful crab topping.

Notes

  • Use fresh crab meat for the best flavor and texture; canned crab meat can be substituted in a pinch but may alter taste and moisture.
  • Be cautious when sautéing garlic to avoid burning, which can turn the flavor bitter.
  • For a spicier variation, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the crab mixture.
  • The Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a delicious umami note; feel free to omit for a dairy-free version.
  • These toasts are best served immediately to retain their crispiness.

Keywords: crab toast, garlic butter crab, seafood appetizer, toasted baguette, crab meat recipe, easy appetizers

Find it online: https://victoriablair.com/garlic-butter-crab-toasts-recipe/