Using Crab Meat For More Than Just Crab Cakes

By KC Kudra

When we think of lump crab meat, many of us automatically think of breaded crab cakes. Although crab cakes are certainly tasty in their own right, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy sweet and delicious crab meat whether it is the authentic or imitation kind from a can.

Crab meat is also rather healthy although it has been thought to be high in cholesterol. The cholesterol count of the meat will vary by the type of crab it comes from but in general, it is lower than beef or eggs.

Crab can be used in an incredibly number of different ways including in dips and sauces. A hot crab dip is the ideal party appetizer when served along with an assortment of crackers or vegetables for dipping. You can also mix crab meat with a variety of cheeses and serve along with nachos or tortilla chips.

Soups and chowders are other great ways to use crab meat. Maryland crab soup is a rather popular and hearty variety that includes plenty of vegetables including cabbage, carrots, celery, corn, peas, and potatoes. Alternatively, make a bisque with flour, butter, chicken broth, some parsley, and of course, crab meat.

Crab chili is yet another delicious treat especially on a cold, wintry day. Use crab, peppers, beans, chicken stock, shredded cheese, and seasonings such as oregano, cilantro, and cayenne pepper.

Crab salads are simply perfect and they can be either hot or cold and include a wide variety of ingredients. Both cold and hot crab salads can be served as appetizers, as lunch, or even as the main course. Use the herbs, spices, and seasonings of your choice along with fresh greens and vegetables and your favorite type of dressing to create your own unique crab meat salad.

Crabby Mushroom Bake Recipe

What You Need

• 1/4 cup margarine
• 1 pound fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons white onions, finely minced
• 10 ounces wild rice, cooked
• Nonstick cooking spray
• 2 cans cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 pound crab meat, cleaned to remove shells
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 12 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

How to Make It

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

In a skillet, heat the margarine and saute the sliced mushrooms, chopped celery and minced onions for about 5 minutes or until the celery is somewhat soft. While the vegetables are sauteing cook the wild rice.

Coat the bottom of a 9 x 13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.

Combine the sauteed mixture with the mushroom soup, milk, crab meat, and the salt and pepper in a medium sized mixing bowl. Transfer the mixture to the baking dish and spread evenly.

Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top and cover with aluminum foil then bake for about 45 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly.

Serve your crabby mushroom bake with a side salad made from fresh greens, vegetables, a bit of shredded cheese and ranch, Italian, or your favorite dressing.

Serves 6

Put together a quick crab salad recipe with imitation crab meat the next time you are in a hurry for something healthy and refreshing. Crab salad is a versatile seafood dish that can be served all alone or along with the main course for an extra filling meal. Why be Crabby When You can be a Salad - CrabSalads.com