Crab Imperial

This Crab Imperial is a delightful dish featuring tender jumbo lump crab meat enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce and baked to perfection. Ideal for gatherings or a family dinner, this recipe stands out for its ease and incredible flavor. In under 30 minutes, you can impress your guests with a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you’ll have this dish ready to bake in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of creamy mayo, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as an appetizer or main course, it fits seamlessly into any occasion.
• Low Carb Delight: This dish is keto-friendly and low in carbs, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
• Easy Clean-Up: The simple mix-and-bake method means less mess and more enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here are some recommendations:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and makes serving easy.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk or fork: Helps incorporate ingredients smoothly for a creamy consistency.

Ingredients

This crab imperial is jumbo lump crab meat coated in a creamy sauce, then baked to perfection. An easy and unique recipe made in under 30 minutes!

For the Crab Imperial

• 1 lb crab meat (jumbo lump crab)
• 1/2 cup mayo
• 1/2 tsp old bay seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt-free lemon pepper seasoning
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp parsley (fresh)
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp hot sauce
• 1 tsp dijon mustard

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Crab Imperial

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F to ensure the perfect baking environment for your crab imperial.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the mayo, dijon mustard, old bay seasoning, egg, fresh parsley, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, lemon juice, and salt-free lemon pepper seasoning.
2. Mix until all ingredients are well blended.

Step 3: Add the Crab Meat

Gently fold in the jumbo lump crab meat into the mayo mixture:
– Be careful not to break up the crab too much; you want to keep those lovely lumps intact.

Step 4: Bake the Crab Imperial

Transfer the crab mixture into a baking dish:
– Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
– For an extra touch of crispiness, broil for an additional 1 minute.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once done:
– Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
– Serve with lemon wedges for an added burst of flavor. Enjoy!

How to Serve Crab Imperial

Crab Imperial is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Lemon Wedges

• Fresh lemon wedges add a zesty kick to each bite of Crab Imperial. Squeeze over the top just before eating for an extra burst of flavor.

Accompanied by Toast Points

• Serve the Crab Imperial with crispy toast points for a delightful crunch. The bread pairs well with the creamy texture of the dish.

On a Bed of Greens

• Create a beautiful presentation by serving Crab Imperial on a bed of mixed greens. This adds freshness and color to your plate.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkling chopped parsley or chives on top enhances the visual appeal and adds a fresh flavor that complements the crab.

Paired with Cocktails

• Enjoy Crab Imperial alongside light cocktails like a classic martini or a refreshing mojito. The flavors work harmoniously for a sophisticated touch.

How to Perfect Crab Imperial

To make sure your Crab Imperial turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use High-Quality Crab Meat: Opt for fresh jumbo lump crab meat for the best texture and flavor in your dish.
• Don’t Overmix: When folding in the crab meat, be gentle to maintain its tender chunks. Overmixing can lead to a mushy texture.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your mixture before baking and adjust seasonings as needed. Everyone’s palate is different!
• Broil for Golden Finish: Broiling for one minute at the end gives your Crab Imperial a lovely golden crust that enhances both appearance and taste.
• Serve Immediately: For optimal flavor and texture, serve your Crab Imperial right after baking. It’s best enjoyed warm!

Best Side Dishes for Crab Imperial

Crab Imperial pairs wonderfully with several side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options to consider when planning your meal.

1. Garlic Butter Asparagus: Lightly roasted asparagus drizzled with garlic butter provides a delicious contrast to the creamy crab.
2. Cauliflower Rice Pilaf: A low-carb option that offers fluffy rice-like texture while keeping it light and healthy.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the Crab Imperial.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy sprouts bring earthiness to the table, balancing out the flavors beautifully.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs nicely with seafood; grill or boil it for an easy side.
6. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette can brighten up the plate and refresh your palate between bites of rich crab.
7. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes allow guests to customize their toppings while enjoying this hearty dish.
8. Quinoa Salad: A nutritious quinoa salad can add protein and fiber, making it a well-rounded meal option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Crab Imperial. Here are some common ones and how to steer clear of them.

• Overmixing the crab: Gently fold the crab meat into the mixture. Overmixing can break up the delicate lumps and affect the texture.
• Skipping the broiling step: Broiling adds a delicious finishing touch. Don’t skip this step, as it gives a lovely golden crust on top.
• Using low-quality crab meat: Always opt for high-quality jumbo lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture. Cheaper alternatives can diminish the dish’s taste.
• Not preheating the oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This helps cook the Crab Imperial evenly and properly.
• Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh parsley enhances the flavor significantly. Dried herbs won’t deliver the same freshness, so opt for fresh whenever possible.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Crab Imperial in an airtight container.
• It will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure it cools down to room temperature before sealing.

Freezing Crab Imperial

• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
• Crab Imperial can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

Reheating Crab Imperial

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Cook gently over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crab Imperial?

Crab Imperial is a baked dish made primarily from jumbo lump crab meat mixed with creamy ingredients. It’s known for its rich flavor and smooth texture.

Can I make Crab Imperial ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time by assembling all ingredients and storing them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What can I serve with Crab Imperial?

Crab Imperial pairs beautifully with fresh lemon wedges, a side salad, or crispy bread. These add freshness that complements its rich flavors.

How do I know when my Crab Imperial is done?

Your Crab Imperial is done when it’s bubbly around the edges and lightly golden on top after broiling.

Can I customize my Crab Imperial recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different seasonings or vegetables like bell peppers for extra flavor. Just remember to keep your crab meat quality high!

Final Thoughts

This Crab Imperial recipe is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize with your favorite seasonings or sides, and enjoy this delightful dish!

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Crab Imperial

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Crab Imperial is a luxurious, creamy dish that showcases tender jumbo lump crab meat enveloped in a rich sauce and baked until golden. Perfect for impressing guests or elevating family dinners, this recipe combines the delicate flavors of crab with zesty seasonings, all ready in under 30 minutes. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that’s not only delicious but also keto-friendly. Serve it as an appetizer or main course and watch your loved ones savor every bite.

• Total Time: 26 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• Fresh parsley and lemon juice for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine mayo, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, egg, parsley, hot sauce, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, and salt-free lemon pepper. Mix thoroughly.
3. Gently fold in crab meat without breaking lumps.
4. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20 minutes. Broil for an additional minute for crispiness.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

• Author: Adriana
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 21 minutes
• Category: Appetizer/Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 295
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: Use high-quality crab meat for the best flavor. Be gentle when mixing to keep the crab lumps intact. Adjust seasonings to taste before baking.