Avocado Crab Cakes

Avocado Crab Cakes Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Avocado Crab Cakes are a delightful twist on the traditional crab cake, incorporating the creamy texture and rich flavor of avocado. This recipe combines the succulent taste of crab meat with the freshness of avocado, lemon, and herbs, creating a dish that's both nutritious and delicious. Perfect for a light lunch, appetizer, or a sophisticated dinner, these crab cakes are sure to impress.

History

The concept of crab cakes originates from the Chesapeake Bay region of the United States, where they have been a staple part of the diet since the Colonial times. The addition of avocado to crab cakes is a more modern innovation, reflecting contemporary culinary trends towards incorporating healthy fats and fresh ingredients into traditional dishes.

Ingredients

1 avocado
1 lemon
1 tsp chives
0.5 tsp dill
1 egg
2 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tbsp dijon mustard
0.75 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs
1 lb (454 g) crabmeat
salt and pepper to taste
garlic seasoned olive oil

How to prepare

Chop the avocado.
Cut the lemon in half and squeeze half of it over the avocado.
Beat the egg, then add mayonnaise, mustard, chives, dill, and 0.25 cup of bread crumbs.
Add the crab and avocado.
Season with salt and pepper.
Shape the mixture into 6 patties.
Dip the patties in the remaining bread crumbs.
Heat oil in a pan and fry the patties, turning them once, until they are browned.
Slice the remaining half of the lemon and use it for garnishing.

Variations

For a gluten-free version, substitute the bread crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko. You can also add a bit of heat with a diced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best texture and flavor, use fresh, high-quality crab meat and ripe avocados. Gently mix the ingredients to avoid mashing the avocado too much. When forming the patties, wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking. Ensure the oil is hot before adding the crab cakes to achieve a crispy exterior.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Avocado Crab Cakes on a bed of mixed greens with a side of lemon aioli or a light yogurt-based dill sauce for a refreshing meal. They also pair beautifully with a crisp white wine.

Cooking Techniques

Pan-frying in olive oil gives these crab cakes a golden crust and tender interior. For a healthier version, you can bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, flipping once.

Ingredient Substitutions

If crab meat is not available, you can substitute it with shredded cooked chicken or canned salmon. Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise for a lighter version.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the crab cake mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to a day before forming and cooking the patties. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the crab cakes with thin slices of avocado, a sprinkle of chives, and lemon wedges for a visually appealing and flavorful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair these Avocado Crab Cakes with a light, crisp salad or a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light, citrusy beer complements the flavors perfectly.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover crab cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Avocado Crab Cakes contains approximately 250 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie option for a meal or substantial snack.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Avocado Crab Cakes contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the bread crumbs and the natural sugars present in the avocado and lemon.

Fats

Thanks to the avocado and olive oil, these crab cakes are rich in healthy monounsaturated fats. Each serving contains about 15 grams of fat, which helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Proteins

Crab meat is an excellent source of high-quality protein. Each serving of Avocado Crab Cakes provides roughly 20 grams of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

These crab cakes are packed with vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C from the lemon, Vitamin E, and potassium from the avocado, and a range of B vitamins from the crab meat. They also provide a good source of iron and calcium.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe are shellfish (crab) and eggs. It also contains wheat (in the bread crumbs) and mayonnaise, which some brands make with soy. Always check labels if you have food sensitivities.

Summary

Avocado Crab Cakes are a nutritious option, offering a good balance of proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, with moderate carbohydrates and calories.

Summary

Avocado Crab Cakes are a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic dish, perfect for any occasion. With a balance of flavors and textures, they offer a satisfying meal that's also good for you. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a cooking novice, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be cherished. It was many years ago, during a trip to a seaside town in California. I had always been a lover of seafood, and the thought of combining avocado and crab sounded absolutely divine to me.

I stumbled upon a quaint little seafood restaurant, tucked away in a corner of the town. The smell of fresh seafood wafted through the air, beckoning me inside. I settled into a cozy booth and perused the menu, my eyes immediately drawn to the avocado crab cakes. I knew I had to try them.

When the dish arrived at my table, I was immediately captivated by its appearance. The crab cakes were golden brown and crispy on the outside, with chunks of lump crab meat peeking out. The creamy avocado sauce on top was a beautiful contrast in color and texture. I took my first bite and was instantly transported to seafood heaven.

I asked the waitress if she could share the recipe with me, but she explained that it was a closely guarded secret of the chef. Undeterred, I made it my mission to recreate the dish at home.

I spent hours researching different crab cake recipes, experimenting with various ingredients and flavors. After many failed attempts, I finally struck gold. The secret, I discovered, was in the perfect balance of fresh crab meat, ripe avocados, and a blend of herbs and spices.

I shared my creation with friends and family, who all raved about how delicious it was. I knew I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a staple in my kitchen for years to come.

Over the years, I have continued to perfect my avocado crab cakes, adding my own twists and tweaks to make them truly my own. I have passed the recipe down to my children and grandchildren, who now make it a tradition to cook them together whenever we gather for a special occasion.

I often think back to that moment in the seaside town, when I first tasted the avocado crab cakes that would change my life forever. It reminds me of the joy and satisfaction that comes from discovering a new recipe and making it your own.

As I sit here now, preparing a batch of avocado crab cakes for a family dinner, I am filled with gratitude for that fateful day. It is a memory that I will always cherish, a reminder of the joy that cooking and sharing good food can bring. And as I take my first bite of the crispy, creamy crab cake, I am reminded once again of the magic that happens when you combine love, creativity, and a touch of adventure in the kitchen.