Name: Asian Crab Salad Croustades
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: PT-488207H14M37S
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 50 croustades; 2 tbsp mayonnaise or aioli; 4 heaped tbsp brown crab meat; Salt, pepper, and Tabasco to taste; 250 g white crab meat; Juice of 1 lime; 1 tbsp fish sauce (Nam Pla); 2 heaped tbsp soft brown sugar; 1 small handful mint leaves, finely chopped; 2 large handfuls coriander leaves, finely chopped; 2 kaffir lime leaves, finely chopped; 1 small red chili, deseeded and finely chopped; ½ head Romaine or Iceberg lettuce, shredded

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Asian Crab Salad Croustades are an elegant and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for parties, gatherings, or special occasions. With a refreshing blend of crab, lime, herbs, and spices nestled in crispy croustade shells, these bite-sized treats deliver a burst of freshness and texture in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfectly portioned appetizers for entertaining
Combines creamy, zesty, and spicy flavors in harmony
Can be prepared ahead of time with easy assembly before serving
Impressive presentation for dinner parties or holiday gatherings
Crispy, refreshing, and full of vibrant Asian-inspired flavors

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

50 croustades
2 tablespoons good-quality mayonnaise or aioli
4 heaped tablespoons brown crab meat
Salt, pepper, and Tabasco, to taste
250 g white crab meat
Juice of 1 lime
1 tablespoon fish sauce (Nam Pla)
2 heaped tablespoons soft brown sugar
1 small handful mint leaves, finely chopped
2 large handfuls coriander leaves, finely chopped
2 kaffir lime leaves, finely chopped
1 small red chili (or more to taste), deseeded and finely chopped
½ head Romaine or Iceberg lettuce, shredded

Directions

Check both white and brown crab meat carefully for shell pieces by hand.
For the crab salad: In a bowl, mix lime juice, fish sauce, and brown sugar until dissolved. Finely chop the mint, coriander, kaffir lime leaves, and chili, then add to the bowl with the white crab meat. Stir to combine, then cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or overnight).
For the brown crab mayo: Chop the brown crab meat, mash lightly with a fork, and mix with mayonnaise or aioli. Season with salt, pepper, and a dash of Tabasco.
Prepare the lettuce by shredding thinly and chopping roughly.
To assemble: Place ½ teaspoon of brown crab mayo at the bottom of each croustade. Add shredded lettuce to fill halfway, then top with 1 teaspoon of crab salad.
Serve immediately or within 30–60 minutes to prevent the croustades from softening.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 50 croustades
Prep time: 30 minutes (plus 3 hours chilling time)
Total time: 3 hours 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Upgrade: Add extra chili or a splash of Sriracha for more heat.
Creamier Option: Mix a little crème fraîche into the brown crab mayo.
Leafy Alternative: Replace lettuce with shredded napa cabbage for crunch.
Citrus Twist: Use lemon instead of lime for a slightly different flavor.
Vegetarian Version: Replace crab with shredded jackfruit or hearts of palm.

Storage/Reheating

The crab salad mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
The brown crab mayo can be made a day ahead and refrigerated.
Assemble the croustades just before serving to prevent sogginess.
These are not suitable for reheating, as croustades should remain crisp.

FAQs

Can I make the crab salad ahead of time?

Yes, the crab salad can be prepared a day in advance and kept chilled until assembly.

What if I can’t find croustades?

You can use mini pastry shells, phyllo cups, or even toasted baguette slices.

Can I use canned crab meat?

Fresh crab gives the best flavor, but high-quality canned crab can be used in a pinch.

How do I keep the croustades from getting soggy?

Assemble them close to serving time—within 30 to 60 minutes.

Can I substitute the herbs?

Yes, basil or parsley can be used if you don’t have mint or coriander.

Is the chili necessary?

No, but it adds a nice kick. Adjust or omit based on your preference.

What type of mayonnaise works best?

A good-quality mayo or aioli with a neutral flavor works best to complement the crab.

Can I freeze the crab salad?

No, freezing alters the texture of crab and fresh herbs.

How many croustades per person should I plan for?

Plan for 2–3 per person if serving as part of a spread of appetizers.

Can I serve the crab salad without croustades?

Yes, it works beautifully over lettuce leaves, cucumber slices, or as a topping for crackers.

Conclusion

Asian Crab Salad Croustades are a sophisticated appetizer that combines freshness, crunch, and vibrant flavors in every bite. Perfect for entertaining, they showcase crab in a refreshing and elegant way. With the ability to prep most of the components ahead, they’re a stress-free option that will impress your guests every time.

Maggie