Here’s the complete recipe profile for Elegant Crab Salad Cups, adapted to your request and keeping the structured flow you like:
Introduction
Elegant Crab Salad Cups are a refined appetizer that perfectly balances freshness, flavor, and presentation. Sweet, delicate crab meat is lightly dressed with a creamy yet zesty dressing, then nestled in crisp lettuce leaves or golden wonton shells. These cups are simple to prepare yet impressive enough to serve at weddings, cocktail parties, or festive family dinners. They offer bite-sized indulgence without being heavy, making them an ideal starter for any occasion.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Crab salad traces its roots to coastal cuisine, where fresh crab was traditionally tossed with lemon, herbs, and light dressings. In the United States, crab salad grew popular in delis and fine dining restaurants alike, often served chilled as a luxurious entrée or side. The “cup” presentation is a modern culinary innovation that enhances both convenience and visual appeal. By serving crab salad in lettuce or wonton cups, chefs created a dish that merges tradition with elegance—representing today’s emphasis on stylish, health-conscious, and easy-to-eat appetizers.
Ingredients Quantity
1 pound (450 g) lump crab meat (picked over for shells)
½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (for a lighter option)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh chives or green onions, finely chopped
1 celery stalk, finely diced
¼ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
⅛ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
1 head butter lettuce (or 18–24 baked mini-wonton cups)
Optional Additions
For crunch: diced red bell pepper, cucumber, or toasted sesame seeds
For flavor: Old Bay seasoning, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, or hot sauce
For garnish: avocado slices, paprika, dill, or parsley
Asian twist: lime juice, soy sauce, honey, and ginger dressing instead of mayo
Tips for Success
Use high-quality crab (lump or jumbo lump) for the best flavor and texture.
Keep ingredients and serving cups well chilled for freshness.
Gently fold the mixture to avoid breaking crab lumps.
If using wonton cups, fill them right before serving to keep them crisp.
Always taste and adjust seasoning before assembling.
Instructions
see next page
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