Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This shrimp and crab cake recipe is your answer. It's a fantastic blend of succulent seafood, creating a delightful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. These homemade crab cakes are bursting with flavor, and the best part? They're much simpler to make than you might think! Get ready to impress yourself and your family with this quick dinner idea.
Ingredients:
This recipe yields about 6 crab cakes.
- 1 pound lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1/2 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter, for cooking
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Gently combine the crab meat and shrimp in a large bowl. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cakes tough.
Mix the Ingredients:
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Add the mayonnaise, bread crumbs, egg, red onion, Dijon mustard, parsley, Old Bay seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce to the bowl. Season generously with salt and pepper.
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Using a fork, gently mix all the ingredients until just combined. Again, avoid overmixing.
Shape the Cakes:
- Form the mixture into 6 equal-sized patties, about 3/4 inch thick.
Cook the Crab Cakes:
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Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Carefully place the crab cakes in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to cook the cakes in batches.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as a lemon-dill aioli, a fresh salad, or some crusty bread.
Tips for Perfect Crab Cakes:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the crab cake mixture will result in tough cakes. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined.
- Use fresh ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality crab meat and shrimp will make a significant difference in the flavor of your crab cakes.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked crab cakes will be dry and rubbery. Cook them until they are golden brown and heated through, but not dry.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper to your liking.
Variations:
- Spicy Crab Cakes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Crab Cakes: Stir in 2 tablespoons of sour cream or crème fraîche for extra richness and creaminess.
- Herby Crab Cakes: Experiment with different herbs, such as chives, dill, or thyme.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Protein: Approximately 20-25g Fat: Approximately 15-20g Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This easy recipe delivers a delicious and satisfying meal. The homemade touch elevates this dish above anything you could buy pre-made, making it a truly special treat. Enjoy your delicious and healthy seafood dinner!