Delicious Crab-Stuffed Ciabatta

This crab-stuffed ciabatta is a delightful combination of crispy bread, creamy cheese, and savory crab. It offers a gourmet twist on a traditional sandwich, perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying as an indulgent treat. The toasted ciabatta provides a lovely crunch, while the creamy crab mixture adds richness and flavor. The dish is brightened with a touch of lemon juice and fresh tomato slices, making it both fresh and satisfying. Quick and easy to prepare, this recipe is perfect for a light lunch or a delightful appetizer. With a balance of textures and flavors, it's a dish that's sure to please seafood lovers. The seasoning is subtle yet impactful, enhancing the natural sweetness of the crab. Whether you're hosting a small gathering or treating yourself to a luxurious snack, this crab-stuffed ciabatta is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 small dark ciabatta
• 100 g chopped crab sticks
• 3 slices of tomato
• 2 tbsp cream cheese
• Salt
• Pepper
• A dash of lemon juice

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 15 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat your oven to a medium-high temperature.
2. Slice the ciabatta in half horizontally and place the halves in the oven. Toast until they are golden brown and crispy.
3. Meanwhile, place the chopped crab sticks in a baking dish. If you do not have an oven-proof dish, you can sauté them in a pan on the stovetop.
4. Heat the crab sticks in the oven for a few minutes until they are warmed through.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine the warm crab sticks with cream cheese until evenly mixed.
6. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
7. Spread the crab and cream cheese mixture generously onto the toasted ciabatta halves.
8. Drizzle a small amount of lemon juice over the crab mixture for a hint of acidity.
9. Lay the tomato slices over the crab-stuffed ciabatta.
10. Sprinkle additional pepper on top of the tomatoes if preferred.
11. Place the other half of the ciabatta on top to form a sandwich.
12. Press down slightly to keep all the ingredients in place.
13. Cut the ciabatta into smaller portions if serving as an appetizer.
14. Enjoy the sandwich warm, for optimal flavor and texture.
15. If desired, garnish with fresh herbs or a side salad.
16. For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
17. Ensure the ciabatta is well-toasted to maintain a satisfying crunch against the creamy filling.
18. If using fresh crab meat, cook it according to package instructions before mixing with cream cheese.
19. For a healthier twist, use whole-grain ciabatta or substitute Greek yogurt for part of the cream cheese.
20. Serve promptly after preparation for the best taste and freshness.

Tips

• Substitution: Use fresh crab meat for a more luxurious version.
• Spice it up: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Cheese options: Swap cream cheese with goat cheese for a tangier flavor.

Nutrition

• Estimated Calories: 350 per serving
• Protein: 18g
• Fats: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free ciabatta.
• Vegetarian: Substitute crab sticks with marinated tofu or avocado slices.
• Low-Calorie: Use low-fat cream cheese and a whole-grain ciabatta.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Serve alongside a chilled white wine or a sparkling water with lemon.
• Complement with a side of roasted sweet potato fries.

Best Places

• The Crab Spot - Specializes in fresh seafood dishes with a modern twist. Location: 123 Ocean Ave, Miami, USA
• Ciabatta Delights - Known for artisanal bread and inventive sandwiches. Location: 45 Gourmet St, Kyoto, Japan
• Seaside Bistro - Offers a charming atmosphere and freshly caught seafood. Location: 789 Coastal Ln, Sydney, Australia
• La Maison de Croissant - A café famous for its French bread and pastries. Location: 10 Rue de Pain, Paris, France
• Mediterranean Grill - Features a fusion of European and Middle Eastern flavors. Location: 500 Spice Rd, Istanbul, Turkey
• Crabby Pete’s - Serves a wide range of crab dishes in a laid-back setting. Location: 88 Shellfish Way, Cape Town, South Africa
• The Bread Basket - A bakery with an emphasis on hearty, traditional breads. Location: 233 Baker Blvd, London, UK
• Tide’s Away Café - A beachside eatery with stunning ocean views. Location: 334 Wave Rd, Auckland, New Zealand
• Sunny Side Up - A vibrant spot for all-day breakfast and brunch. Location: 67 Morning Ln, Los Angeles, USA
• Pasta & Claw - Merges Italian pasta dishes with fresh seafood. Location: 912 Sauce St, Rome, Italy