Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Crab and Corn Melts?
They are elegant appetizers featuring a blend of sweet crab meat, fresh corn, and melted mozzarella on toasted bread triangles.
What kind of crab meat should I use?
You can use fresh, canned, or frozen crab meat, provided it is drained and squeezed dry before mixing.
How do I prepare the corn for this recipe?
Boil a husked corn cob for 5 minutes, cool it under cold water, and then carefully cut the kernels off the cob.
What type of cheese is recommended for the melts?
The recipe specifically calls for 2 cups of Saputo Mozzarellissima shredded cheese.
How is the bread prepared before adding the topping?
Cut slices of white bread into four triangles each and broil them for 1 to 2 minutes per side until lightly golden brown.
What seasonings are used in the crab mixture?
The mixture is seasoned with Old Bay seasoning, lemon zest, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
How long do the topped melts need to broil?
They should be broiled for an additional 2 to 4 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
Can I add some heat to this recipe?
Yes, you can drizzle the finished melts with Louisiana-style hot sauce for an added kick.
How should I garnish the Savory Crab and Corn Melts?
Garnish the warm melts with fresh, finely chopped chives before serving.
What type of bread works best?
The recipe recommends using 8 slices of standard white bread.
Do I include the cheese inside the crab mixture or just on top?
Half of the cheese is folded into the crab and corn mixture, while the remaining half is sprinkled on top before the final broil.
Is the red pepper cooked before being added?
No, the 1/3 cup of red pepper should be finely chopped and mixed directly into the crab mixture raw.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 13 ingredients in total, including the corn, crab, bread, and seasonings.
How much mayonnaise is required?
You will need 1/3 cup of mayonnaise to bind the crab and corn mixture.
What is the primary cooking method for the melts?
The primary method for assembling the melts is broiling to ensure the bread is crisp and the cheese is bubbly.
Can I use fresh chives in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe uses 3 tablespoons of fresh chives, divided between the mixture and the final garnish.
Is this recipe suitable for a party?
Absolutely, it is designed as a stylish appetizer or canapรฉ for summer gatherings and family-style serving.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
It combines sweet seafood and corn with creamy cheese and zesty citrus notes.
How many slices of bread are needed for one batch?
The recipe calls for 8 slices of white bread, which results in 32 triangle melts.
Does the recipe require lemon zest?
Yes, 1 teaspoon of finely grated lemon zest is used to enhance the flavor.
What should I watch for while broiling the bread?
You must watch closely to prevent the bread from burning, as broilers can be very intense.
How much Old Bay Seasoning is needed?
The recipe uses 1 1/2 teaspoons of Old Bay Seasoning.
Can I prepare the corn in advance?
Yes, you can boil and cut the corn ahead of time and set it aside until you are ready to mix the topping.
What type of texture do these melts have?
They feature a crisp toasted bread base with a luscious, creamy, and gooey topping.
Is this a seafood-based appetizer?
Yes, it is primarily a seafood appetizer centered around cooked crab meat.
How much Worcestershire sauce is used?
Only a small amount is needed: 1/4 teaspoon.
Is salt and pepper included in the mix?
Yes, both are added 'to taste' to ensure the mixture is perfectly seasoned.
What is the serving suggestion?
Serve them warm as canapรฉs for an outdoor feast or a celebratory occasion.
Can I use frozen corn kernels instead of a cob?
While the recipe specifies a fresh corn cob for flavor and texture, frozen kernels can be used if fresh corn is unavailable.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe suitable for home cooks.