Introduction

Garlic Butter Crab Toasts are a delightful combination of sweet crab meat, rich garlic butter, and crispy toasted bread. Perfect as an elegant appetizer or a light main course, this dish offers a luxurious yet approachable seafood experience that’s sure to impress.

Four slices of toasted bread are arranged on a white plate, each topped with creamy egg salad mixed with herbs. The egg salad is pale yellow with small green bits of chives and orange bits of carrots mixed in. Each piece has a soft, slightly chunky texture on top, resting on the warm golden-brown toasted bread that shows a crunchy texture on the edges and a soft center. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound fresh crab meat (preferably from Dungeness or blue crabs)
1 loaf French baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch slices
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
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1 teaspoon paprika (optional for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: If using fresh crabs, steam them for about 10 minutes until they turn bright red. Allow to cool, then carefully extract the meat, ensuring no shell fragments remain.
Step 2: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: In a large bowl, gently combine the crab meat, melted garlic butter, lemon juice, parsley, chives, salt, and pepper. Mix carefully to keep the crab meat intact.
Step 4: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
Step 5: Toast the baguette slices in the oven for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
Step 6: Remove the toasted bread from the oven. Spoon generous amounts of the crab mixture onto each slice. If using, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 7: Return the assembled toasts to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors and slightly melt the cheese.
Step 8: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with paprika if desired, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

Use the freshest crab meat available for the best flavor and texture; canned or frozen crab works as a substitute but ensure it is well-drained.
Try adding fresh herbs like dill or tarragon for a unique twist, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Different breads such as sourdough or ciabatta can be used for varied texture and flavor.
For a vegetarian alternative, substitute crab with hearts of palm or artichoke hearts.

Storage

Store any leftover toasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, place the toasts in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes until warmed and crisp. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture. For best results, reheat the crab mixture separately and assemble toasts just before serving.

How to Serve

Four slices of toasted bread are arranged on a round white plate placed on a white marbled surface. Each toast slice has a golden-brown crispy base topped with a creamy mixture that appears to be egg salad, showing small chunks of egg white and yolk mixed with mayonnaise or dressing. The creamy layer is sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs and a pinch of black pepper, adding subtle color contrast. The toasts are evenly spaced and slightly angled toward the center. The overall look is warm and inviting, showing texture from the crunchy bread crust to the soft, creamy topping. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the crab mixture in advance?

Yes, the crab mixture can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before assembling the toasts.

What can I use if I don’t have fresh garlic?

If fresh garlic is unavailable, substitute with garlic powder. Start with 1/2 teaspoon and adjust to taste.