Crab Appetizer Napoleons

Crab Appetizer Napoleons Recipe - California | Puff Pastry, Cream Cheese, Crabmeat & More

Region / culture: California | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Crab Appetizer Napoleons are a delicious and elegant appetizer that is perfect for any special occasion or gathering. These flaky puff pastry rounds are filled with a creamy crabmeat mixture, making them a flavorful and impressive dish to serve to your guests.

History

The origins of Crab Appetizer Napoleons are not entirely clear, but they are believed to have been inspired by the classic French pastry, the Napoleon. This dish takes the concept of layering pastry and filling to create a savory appetizer that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

0.5 (17.5 oz (496 g)) package of frozen puff pastry, slightly thawed
1 (8 oz (227 g)) container of softened cream cheese
1 tbsp of milk
1 tbsp of prepared white horseradish
0.25 tsp of freshly ground white pepper
6 oz (170 g) of crabmeat
4 green onions, sliced
0.5 cup of sliced almonds
paprika

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Unfold the pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface.
Cut the pastry into 12 rounds using a 2" (5 cm) cookie cutter.
Place the rounds 2" (5 cm) apart on a baking sheet.
Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.
Remove the pastries from the baking sheet and let them cool on a wire rack.
In a bowl, stir the cream cheese until smooth.
Add the milk, horseradish, pepper, and crabmeat to the cream cheese mixture.
Split the pastries into 2 layers, making a total of 24 layers.
Spread the crabmeat mixture on the bottom 12 layers of pastry.
Top with onions, almonds, paprika, and the remaining layer of pastry.

Variations

Substitute the crabmeat with cooked shrimp or lobster for a different flavor profile.
Add diced bell peppers or celery to the filling for added crunch and freshness.
Top the Napoleons with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a gourmet touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to slightly thaw the puff pastry before cutting and baking to ensure that it bakes evenly and becomes golden brown.

- Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing it with the other ingredients to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Crab Appetizer Napoleons as a starter at a dinner party or as a fancy appetizer at a cocktail party. Pair them with a crisp white wine or champagne for a truly elegant experience.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking technique for this recipe is baking the puff pastry rounds until they are golden brown and flaky. Be sure to watch them closely in the oven to prevent burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have puff pastry, you can use phyllo dough or crescent roll dough as a substitute.

- If you're not a fan of cream cheese, you can use mayonnaise or Greek yogurt as a creamy base for the filling.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the puff pastry rounds and the crabmeat filling ahead of time and assemble the Napoleons just before serving. Store the components separately in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the Crab Appetizer Napoleons on a decorative platter and garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation. Serve them with small cocktail forks or toothpicks for easy eating.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Crab Appetizer Napoleons with a light and crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. The acidity of the wine will complement the richness of the crabmeat filling.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Crab Appetizer Napoleons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Crab Appetizer Napoleons contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Crab Appetizer Napoleons contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Crab Appetizer Napoleons contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Crab Appetizer Napoleons contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Crabmeat is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cream cheese) and tree nuts (almonds).

Summary

Crab Appetizer Napoleons are a rich and indulgent appetizer that is high in fats and proteins, making them a satisfying dish to enjoy in moderation.

Summary

Crab Appetizer Napoleons are a sophisticated and delicious appetizer that is perfect for entertaining. With a creamy crabmeat filling sandwiched between flaky puff pastry rounds, these Napoleons are sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated. It was a warm summer day, and my friend Lucy had invited me over for a dinner party. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, the aroma of garlic and seafood wafted through the air, making my mouth water. Lucy was busy at the stove, stirring a pot of bubbling sauce, and I couldn't help but ask her what she was making.

"Oh, just a little appetizer I picked up from a friend," she replied casually. "It's a Crab Appetizer Napoleon - layers of flaky puff pastry, creamy crab filling, and tangy lemon sauce. I think you'll love it."

And love it I did. As soon as I took my first bite of the Crab Appetizer Napoleon, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself. Lucy graciously shared the recipe with me, and I made it a point to practice and perfect it in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made the Crab Appetizer Napoleon for countless gatherings and parties, always receiving rave reviews. The secret, I've found, lies in the quality of the ingredients - fresh crab meat, buttery puff pastry, and a zesty lemon sauce. But more than that, it's the memories and experiences that come with each batch that make this recipe truly special.

One of my most cherished memories of making the Crab Appetizer Napoleon was during a family reunion. My grandchildren were gathered around the kitchen island, eager to help me assemble the layers of pastry and crab filling. As we worked together, laughter and chatter filled the room, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere.

As we sat down to enjoy the Crab Appetizer Napoleons, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and contentment. It wasn't just about the delicious food we were sharing, but the bonds and connections we were strengthening with each bite.

Another memorable experience was when I shared the recipe with a group of friends at a cooking class. We spent the afternoon rolling out the pastry, mixing the crab filling, and drizzling the lemon sauce over the top. As we sat down to taste our creations, I could see the satisfaction and joy in their faces, knowing that they had created something special with their own hands.

Through the years, I have come to realize that recipes are more than just a list of ingredients and instructions. They are a reflection of our experiences, our relationships, and our memories. The Crab Appetizer Napoleon has become a symbol of the love and care that I put into my cooking, a way to share a piece of myself with others.

And so, as I continue to cook and create in my kitchen, I carry with me the lessons and stories that each recipe holds. The Crab Appetizer Napoleon will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and connection that food can bring to our lives.