Savory Crab-Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
These Savory Crab-Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes are a delightful appetizer that brings together the luxurious flavors of lump crabmeat and fresh herbs. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply as a sophisticated snack, these bite-sized marvels are easy to prepare and even easier to devour. The sweet and juicy cherry tomatoes serve as the perfect vessel for a creamy, seasoned crab mixture, ensuring every bite is a burst of flavor. Despite my personal aversion to tomatoes, the rave reviews I receive every time I serve these speak volumes. Elevate your next gathering with this crowd-pleasing treat that combines quality ingredients and a delightful presentation.
40
Servings
30
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
lump crabmeat
1/4 lb (picked through for shells)
chili sauce
1-2 teaspoons (to taste)
Dijon-style mustard
1/4 teaspoon
mayonnaise
2 tablespoons
Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon
scallions
2 (finely chopped)
fresh basil
1 tablespoon (chopped)
fresh chives
1 tablespoon (chopped)
cherry tomatoes
40 (washed and dried)
salt
to taste
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, gently combine the lump crabmeat, chili sauce, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, finely chopped scallions, and fresh herbs (basil and chives). Be careful not to break up the crab too much.
2
Mix the ingredients until well combined, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
3
Prepare the cherry tomatoes by cutting a very thin slice from the stem end of each one. This creates a lid that you can set aside.
4
Using the tip of a teaspoon, carefully scoop out the pulp and seeds from each tomato, being careful not to puncture the skin.
5
Lightly season the inside of each tomato with a sprinkle of salt, then place them upside down on a paper towel to drain for about 15 minutes.
6
Once the tomatoes are drained, use a small spoon to generously stuff each tomato with the crab mixture, mounding it slightly on top.
7
Replace the tomato lids to give a lovely presentation.
8
Refrigerate until ready to serve, and enjoy them cold for the best flavor.
Nutrition Information
1.5g
Fat
0.5g
Carbs
2g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Crab-Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes?
They are a sophisticated, bite-sized appetizer made by filling hollowed-out cherry tomatoes with a seasoned mixture of lump crabmeat, herbs, and savory sauces.
How many stuffed tomatoes does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 40 individual stuffed cherry tomatoes.
What type of crabmeat is best for this recipe?
Lump crabmeat is highly recommended for its texture and flavor; ensure it is picked through to remove any stray shell fragments.
How many calories are in each stuffed tomato?
Each serving, which is one stuffed tomato, contains approximately 30 calories.
Is this recipe low-carb or keto-friendly?
Yes, with only 0.5g of carbohydrates per serving, this appetizer is an excellent choice for low-carb and keto lifestyles.
Can I prepare the crab filling in advance?
Yes, the filling needs to be refrigerated for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld, and it can be prepared a few hours ahead.
How do I prevent the tomatoes from becoming soggy?
After scooping out the pulp, sprinkle the inside with salt and let them drain upside down on a paper towel for 15 minutes.
What fresh herbs are used in the filling?
This recipe uses a combination of finely chopped fresh basil and fresh chives for a vibrant flavor.
How do I remove the pulp from the cherry tomatoes?
Use the tip of a small teaspoon to carefully scoop out the seeds and pulp without puncturing the tomato skin.
What is the purpose of the tomato 'lid'?
Cutting a thin slice from the stem end creates a lid that, when replaced after stuffing, provides a beautiful and professional presentation.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
While fresh herbs provide the best flavor for this cold appetizer, you can use dried herbs if necessary, reducing the amount to about one-third of the fresh measurement.
What gives the crab mixture its savory kick?
The combination of chili sauce, Dijon-style mustard, and Worcestershire sauce provides a complex, savory, and slightly tangy flavor profile.
Should these be served warm or cold?
These are intended to be served cold for the best flavor and texture.
How do I keep the crabmeat from breaking apart?
Gently fold the ingredients together in a mixing bowl, being careful not to over-mix or crush the lumps of crab.
Is there a substitute for chili sauce?
If you don't have chili sauce, a small amount of cocktail sauce or a mix of ketchup with a dash of hot sauce can work as a substitute.
How much fat is in each serving?
There is approximately 1.5g of fat per stuffed tomato.
What type of mayonnaise should I use?
A high-quality standard mayonnaise is best to provide the creamy base for the crab mixture.
Can I use large tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
While you can use the same filling for larger tomatoes, this recipe is specifically scaled and designed for the bite-sized convenience of cherry tomatoes.
Are these suitable for a potluck?
Yes, they are a perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer for parties and potlucks, as they are easy to transport and eat.
How long can they sit out at a party?
Because they contain seafood and mayonnaise, they should not sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
What is the protein content?
Each stuffed tomato provides about 2g of protein.
Can I use scallion greens or just the whites?
It is best to use both the white and the light green parts of the scallions, finely chopped, for optimal flavor.
How much chili sauce should I add?
The recipe calls for 1 to 2 teaspoons, depending on your personal taste preferences for spice and tang.
Do I need to cook the crabmeat?
No, lump crabmeat purchased at the store is typically already cooked; you are simply mixing and chilling it.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for a tangier, slightly healthier profile, though it may change the traditional flavor slightly.
How should I store leftover stuffed tomatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for no more than 1 to 2 days.
Can these be frozen?
Freezing is not recommended, as the fresh tomatoes will lose their texture and become mushy upon thawing.
What size of cherry tomatoes is best?
Uniformly sized, medium to large cherry tomatoes are easiest to stuff and provide the best ratio of tomato to crab.
Are these spicy?
They have a very mild kick from the chili sauce and Dijon mustard, but they are generally considered savory rather than spicy.
Should the tomatoes be room temperature when stuffing?
It is easier to handle tomatoes at room temperature, but the finished product should be thoroughly chilled before serving.