Gourmet Crab & Artichoke Melts
Indulge in these Gourmet Crab & Artichoke Melts, a delectable twist on a classic sandwich. Featuring sweet, succulent crabmeat mixed with creamy mayonnaise, tangy sour cream, and fresh artichoke hearts, each melt is bursting with flavor. The addition of colorful diced red bell pepper and sharp green onions adds a refreshing crunch, while the zesty lemon zest brightens up the dish. Topped with a generous layer of melted sharp cheddar cheese, these melts are perfect for lunch, dinner, or a cozy snack by the fire. Pair them with a bowl of hearty potato soup or luscious clam chowder for a complete meal that will impress your friends and family!
4
Servings
300
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
crabmeat
1 cup (cooked)
red bell pepper
1/2 cup (diced)
artichoke hearts
1/2 cup (chopped and cooked)
green onion
2/3 cup (sliced, divided)
mayonnaise
1/4 cup (none)
sour cream
1/4 cup (none)
lemon zest
1 teaspoon (grated)
sourdough bread or French bread
4 slices (toasted)
sharp cheddar cheese
1 1/2 cups (sliced)
Instructions
1
Preheat your broiler to high, ensuring the rack is set about 6 inches from the heating element.
2
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cooked crabmeat, diced red bell pepper, chopped artichoke hearts, and all but 3 tablespoons of the sliced green onions.
3
Add the mayonnaise, sour cream, and grated lemon zest to the bowl, and mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
4
Spread a generous portion of the crab mixture evenly over each slice of toasted sourdough or French bread.
5
Cover the crab mixture with slices of sharp cheddar cheese, ensuring it's completely covered.
6
Arrange the prepared melts on a baking sheet and place them under the broiler.
7
Broil for about 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
8
Once melted, remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining green onions on top for an added burst of flavor.
9
Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness!
Nutrition Information
20g
Fat
12.5g
Carbs
15g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Gourmet Crab & Artichoke Melts?
They are savory, open-faced sandwiches featuring succulent crabmeat, artichoke hearts, and melted sharp cheddar cheese.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What are the main ingredients in these melts?
The main ingredients include cooked crabmeat, red bell pepper, artichoke hearts, green onions, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon zest, toasted sourdough or French bread, and sharp cheddar cheese.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains 300 calories.
What type of bread is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using toasted sourdough bread or French bread.
Can I use different types of cheese for the topping?
Yes, while sharp cheddar is specified, you can also use Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or Swiss cheese.
How long does it take to broil the melts?
They should be broiled for about 2 to 3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Is there a substitute for sour cream?
Plain Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream in this recipe.
Can I make this recipe with fresh crab?
Yes, fresh cooked crabmeat is ideal for this gourmet dish.
What sides pair well with these crab melts?
Hearty potato soup or luscious clam chowder are excellent pairings for these melts.
Can I use a different vegetable instead of red bell pepper?
Yes, diced celery or green bell pepper can be used as a crunchy alternative.
How much crabmeat is required?
You will need 1 cup of cooked crabmeat.
Can I prepare the crab mixture in advance?
Yes, the mixture can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble and broil.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As written, it is not gluten-free because of the bread, but you can use gluten-free bread as a substitute.
What is the total fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 20g of fat.
How much protein is in each melt?
Each serving provides 15g of protein.
Can I use light mayonnaise in the mixture?
Yes, light mayonnaise can be used to reduce the fat and calorie content.
How do I keep the bread from becoming soggy?
Toasting the bread before adding the crab mixture helps create a barrier that prevents sogginess.
Can I bake these instead of using the broiler?
Yes, you can bake them at 400 degrees Fahrenheit, but broiling provides a better bubbly cheese texture.
How much lemon zest should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of grated lemon zest.
What kind of artichoke hearts are best?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of chopped and cooked artichoke hearts.
Can I use canned crabmeat for this recipe?
Yes, canned crabmeat works well; just make sure to drain it thoroughly before mixing.
Are these melts suitable for appetizers?
Absolutely, they can be sliced into smaller portions to serve as a gourmet appetizer.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 12.5g of carbohydrates per serving.
Can I use white cheddar instead of yellow sharp cheddar?
Yes, white sharp cheddar is a perfect substitute.
What is the recommended rack height for broiling?
Set the oven rack about 6 inches from the heating element.
How much green onion is used in the mixture versus the garnish?
The recipe uses most of the 2/3 cup in the mixture and reserves 3 tablespoons for the garnish.
Can I add extra spice to the mixture?
Yes, a pinch of paprika or Old Bay seasoning would complement the crabmeat perfectly.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this recipe is creamy and savory but not spicy.
Can I use whole wheat bread for these melts?
Yes, whole wheat bread can be used, though it will have a heartier flavor than sourdough or French bread.