Name: Open Face Crab Salad Toast
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 3/4 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon dijon mustard; 2 teaspoons whole-grain mustard; 1 clove garlic; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 8 ounces lump crab meat; 1 stalk celery; 2 tablespoons chives; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes; 4 slices whole-wheat bread; 1 avocado avocado; 1 cup arugula

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The Open Face Crab Salad Toast is one of those delightful dishes that evoke memories of sunny summers by the beach. I remember the first time I tried a crab salad toast; it was at a quaint seaside café, the sound of waves crashing in the background. The flavors of fresh crab meat, tangy lemon juice, and creamy yogurt melded perfectly, making each bite feel like a mini-vacation. This dish has since become a go-to for warm weather, bringing a taste of that café back home. Whether I’m entertaining friends or enjoying a light lunch, Open Face Crab Salad Toast never fails to impress. With its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, it not only satisfies the palate but also the eyes. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, allowing me to whip it up in no time. You can enjoy it on a busy weekday or serve it at a special gathering; it’s always a hit!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
20 g

Diet:
Standard

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Peeler

The Charm of This Open Face Crab Salad Toast

1. Freshness Over Everything

One reason I adore this Open Face Crab Salad Toast is the freshness of its ingredients. The use of premium quality crab meat, fresh herbs like chives, and vibrant cherry tomatoes not only elevates the flavor but also makes the dish visually appealing. When everything is fresh, you can taste the difference!

2. Versatile Flavors

This recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors that can be personalized. You can adjust the levels of mustard or spices to suit your palate. That’s part of the joy of cooking; making it your own adds a personal touch that reflects your taste.

3. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual gathering or a fancy brunch, Open Face Crab Salad Toast fits right in. It’s light enough for a summer lunch yet elegant enough to serve at a dinner party. Just add a glass of chilled white grape juice and you’re set for an amazing meal!

4. Quick and Easy to Prepare

In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to cook can be challenging. Thankfully, this recipe is quick and easy! In just about 20 minutes, you can have a delicious dish ready to serve, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights.

5. Healthy Ingredients

Not only does this dish taste great, but it’s also packed with healthy ingredients. With the avocado offering healthy fats and the arugula adding a fresh crunch, it’s a nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Eating healthy has never been so delicious!

6. Elevates Your Culinary Skills

By preparing this Open Face Crab Salad Toast, you’ll also gain confidence in the kitchen. It involves mixing, layering, and garnishing, which are essential skills for any aspiring chef. Plus, impressing your family and friends with your culinary skills is an added bonus!

What’s In This Open Face Crab Salad Toast

When it comes to the ingredients for Open Face Crab Salad Toast, each one plays a vital role in creating a fresh and flavorful dish. The main players are the delectable crab meat, creamy Greek yogurt, and zesty lemon juice, which come together to create a light yet satisfying mixture. Pairing these ingredients with fresh vegetables and wholesome whole-wheat bread adds texture and depth, making this dish perfect for a summer meal.

1 teaspoon lemon juice: A splash of acidity that brightens the entire dish.
3/4 cup Greek yogurt: Creamy and tangy, this serves as a healthy base for the salad.
1 tablespoon dijon mustard: Adds a subtle kick that complements the crab’s sweetness.
2 teaspoons whole-grain mustard: Offers a delightful texture and depth of flavor.
1 garlic clove, minced: Infuses the salad with aromatic warmth.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors in the salad.
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces a lovely smokiness that rounds out the flavor profile.
8 ounces lump crab meat, cooked: The star of the dish, providing rich, sweet flavors.
1 celery stalk, minced: Adds crunch and freshness.
2 tablespoons chives, minced: Brightens the dish with their oniony flavor.
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Sweet and juicy, they add color and vibrancy.
4 slices whole-wheat bread, toasted: The hearty base for your crab salad.
1 avocado, peeled, pit removed and sliced thin: Creamy and rich, it enhances the texture.
1 cup arugula: Adds a peppery bite and a pop of green.

How to Prepare Open Face Crab Salad Toast

Making Open Face Crab Salad Toast is a breeze, and it’s a great way to get creative in the kitchen. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. Let’s dive into the preparation!

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Take a mixing bowl and combine all the ingredients except for the whole wheat bread, avocado, and arugula. This includes the lump crab meat, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and the seasonings. Use a spatula to mix everything gently, ensuring that the crab remains in large chunks for a lovely texture.
Let the mixture rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. This waiting time allows the flavors to intensify, making every bite of your Open Face Crab Salad Toast even more delicious. You can use this time to prepare your toast and toppings.
While the mixture is resting, toast your whole-wheat bread slices until they’re golden brown and crisp. The texture of the toasted bread will hold up beautifully against the creamy crab salad.
Once toasted, take each slice and divide the sliced avocado evenly between them. Lay the avocado flat on the toast, creating a beautiful green base for your salad. The creamy avocado will add richness to the dish.
Next, take a handful of arugula and place it on top of the avocado. This peppery green will add a refreshing crunch and a pop of color. Make sure to distribute it evenly so every bite has a bit of that wonderful flavor.
Now it’s time to scoop the crab mixture onto the arugula. Divide it evenly between each toast slice, ensuring that each one is generously topped with the salad. The sight of the vibrant crab mix on top of the greens is truly mouthwatering!
Lastly, serve your Open Face Crab Salad Toast immediately. You can enjoy it warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for a casual meal at home or an elegant gathering with friends.

Things Worth Knowing

Fresh is Best: Always use fresh crab meat, as it significantly impacts the flavor and texture of your dish.
Chill Before Serving: Allowing the crab mixture to chill can enhance the flavors, so don’t rush this step.
Perfect Toasting: Ensure your bread is toasted well enough to hold the toppings without becoming soggy.
Customization: Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices in the crab mixture!

Recipe Variations about Open Face Crab Salad Toast

If you’re looking to mix things up, here are some fantastic variations for your Open Face Crab Salad Toast. Each option adds a unique twist while keeping the essence of the original recipe.

Storage: If you have leftovers, store the crab salad mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. However, it’s best to assemble the toast fresh to maintain the bread’s crispness.
Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing the crab salad, as it can alter the texture and flavor of the crab.
Pairing: This dish pairs perfectly with a light salad or a bowl of gazpacho for a refreshing meal.
Seasonal Twist: Add seasonal vegetables like diced cucumbers or bell peppers for added crunch and flavor.
Alternative Breads: Try using bagel chips or pita chips instead of whole-wheat bread for a crunchy, bite-sized appetizer.

Best Served With

When enjoying your Open Face Crab Salad Toast, consider serving it with some delightful side dishes and beverages. Here are a few suggestions:

Fresh Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the crab salad.
Chilled White Grape Juice: This refreshing drink pairs beautifully and enhances the flavors of the toast.
Summer Picnic: Serve this toast at your next outdoor gathering; it’s perfect for picnics or barbecues.
Light Soup: Pair with a light tomato or cucumber soup for a satisfying meal.
Seasonal Fruits: Fresh slices of watermelon or berries can add a sweet touch to your meal.
Brunch Delight: Perfectly suited for brunch, it can be served alongside other dishes like quiche or frittata.

FAQ

Absolutely! Canned crab meat can be a convenient alternative. Just ensure to drain and rinse it well before use. While fresh crab meat offers the best flavor, using canned can still yield a delicious Open Face Crab Salad Toast.

This dish pairs beautifully with a light green salad, chilled grape juice, or a refreshing gazpacho. You could also enjoy it as part of a brunch spread alongside quiche or fresh fruits, making it versatile for any occasion.

If you have leftovers, it’s best to store the crab salad mixture separately from the toasted bread. Keep the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days, but enjoy the toast fresh to maintain its crispness.

If you’re looking for a substitute for Greek yogurt, you could use sour cream for a creamier texture, or even a dairy-free yogurt if you’re avoiding dairy. Keep in mind, though, that this might slightly alter the taste of the Open Face Crab Salad Toast.

Conclusion

The Open Face Crab Salad Toast is a fantastic blend of flavors and textures that make it a standout dish for any meal. It’s not only easy to prepare but also a showstopper when served. I encourage you to give this delightful recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!