Crabtivating Crustless Quiche Bites a Seaside Snack Sensation
Recipe Introduction
Fancy something a bit posh, but proper easy? Have you ever wondered how to knock up some delicious Crustless Crab Quiche Bites ? Well, grab your apron, because we're about to dive into it! Honestly, these are so simple, you'll be whipping them up for every occasion.
Little Bites, Big Flavours
These Crustless Crab Quiche Bites are basically the fancy canapé that everyone secretly loves. Imagine sweet crab, creamy custard, all baked into perfect little mouthfuls.
The main flavour? Definitely that lovely sweet crab, balanced with a touch of dill. They are truly Easy Crab Quiche Bites !
Origin and Occasion
Originating from the classic french quiche, but without the faff of making pastry, these little numbers are a modern twist on a culinary classic.
This recipe is perfect for impressing guests at a brunch, a light lunch, or even as part of a spread for a posh picnic.
The difficulty level is super easy, total time needed is roughly 45- 50 minutes, and you'll get about 24 Quiche Bites from this recipe.
Benefits and What Makes These Special
Crab is packed with protein and essential minerals, making these bites a relatively healthy and delicious treat. These Mini Crab Quiche are incredibly versatile and customisable.
What makes this recipe really special? The fact that you get a taste of luxury without spending hours slaving away in the kitchen, a proper win-win situation!
Let's get cooking, shall we?
Getting Down to Brass Tacks: Ingredients & Equipment for Your Crabtivating Crustless Quiche Bites
Right then, fancy knocking up some Crustless Crab Quiche Bites ? Awesome! Before we get our aprons on, let's gather our bits and bobs.
You know, the stuff that actually makes the magic happen. Let's dive into the essentials, shall we?
Must Have Main Ingredients
Okay, so for these Crustless Crab Quiche , here's what you'll need:
Crab Mixture : 8 ounces (225g) lump crab meat. Go for the good stuff, it makes a difference. If it smells fishy, bin it. Trust me on this one.
Mayonnaise: 2 tablespoons (30ml) .
Dijon mustard: 1 tablespoon (15ml) .
Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon (15ml) , freshly squeezed. Bottled juice just doesn't cut it.
Old Bay seasoning: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) or your favourite seafood seasoning
Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons (30ml) , chopped.
Quiche Base :
- Eggs: 4 large ones. Free range if you can.
- Whole milk: 1 cup (240ml) .
- Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (120ml) . This is what makes it rich and dreamy.
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) .
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) , freshly ground.
- Gruyere cheese: 1/2 cup (60g) , shredded and divided.
- Fresh dill: 2 tablespoons (30ml) , chopped.
I remember the first time I made these. I skimped on the crab. Biggest mistake ever. The real crab flavour is what takes these Quiche Bites from "meh" to "OMG".
Seasoning Secrets: The Magic Dust
Let's talk flavour. Don't underestimate the power of seasoning! Old Bay seasoning is iconic for Crab Quiche . If you don't have any, try a blend of paprika, celery salt, and a pinch of cayenne.
Dill and lemon are essential. They just brighten everything up. They can be easily swapped, if you do not have them! The Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang.
Don’t skip it!
Essential Kit: Tools of the Trade
You don't need fancy gadgets for these Easy Crab Quiche Bites . Just a few basics:
- Mini muffin tin (24-cup)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
No mini muffin tin? You could use a regular one but adjust baking time and then you will have Crab Quiche .
A fork works fine if you don’t have a whisk. A spoon can sub for a spatula. No biggie. I've even used an ice cube tray in a pinch!
So, there you have it. Get these bits together and you are well on your way to creating some Crab Appetizer Bites that will impress. Trust me. Now, let's get cooking!
Mastering the Crustless Crab Quiche Bites Magic
Alright, let's dive into the secret sauce of making amazing Crustless Crab Quiche Bites . Honestly, once you nail this, you'll be serving up posh Quiche Appetizers at every get-together.
We're talking seriously impressive, but seriously easy. Trust me, I can’t even remember the amount of times I have done this Crab Quiche recipe , it is just too good!
Prep Like a Pro: Your Mise en Place Mission
First things first, let's talk prep. This is your essential mise en place. Get all your ingredients measured and ready to go.
We've got our 8 ounces of crabmeat , our spices, eggs, milk, cream, cheeses. You get the gist! It sounds like a lot, but it will be a lot faster to prepare.
I like to get it all laid out. It makes you feel like a proper chef. If using a mandoline, please use cut resistant gloves.
Baking the Bite Sized Beauties
1. Preheat & Grease: Crank your oven to 350° F ( 175° C) . Generously grease your mini muffin tin. We are talking seriously, folks! Nothing is worse than sticking Crab Quiche ! 2.
Crab Concoction: Gently mix your crab, mayo, Dijon, lemon juice, Old Bay, and parsley. Don't mash the crab! We want nice lumps.
This is what makes it a great Seafood Appetizer . 3. Quiche Quaff: Whisk eggs, milk, cream, salt, and pepper until frothy.
4. Assemble, Assemble: Spoon crab mix into muffin cups. Then pour the egg mixture. 5. Cheese Please: Top with shredded Gruyere.
6. Bake Time: Pop those Mini Crab Quiche into the oven for 25- 30 minutes . Look for a light golden brown and a clean knife test.
7. Cool Down: Let them cool for a few before removing. This helps them set.
Pro Tips for Quiche Perfection
Wanna up your quiche game? Try these little tricks. First, don’t overbake! Overbaked quiche is dry and sad. Keep a close eye.
Second, always use fresh crab. I made it with canned once. Disaster! Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment!
These Easy Crab Quiche Bites are a guaranteed crowd pleaser! I'm sure you will enjoy them as much as I do.
Honestly, they are a great choice for Crab Appetizer Bites . Also, it is easy to make Crustless Quiche Recipe , and you could add any other seafood you prefer if you are not a fan of Crab Quiche .
Recipe Notes: Your Crustless Crab Quiche Bites Journey
Alright, so you’re ready to bake some Crustless Crab Quiche Bites ? Fantastic! But before you dive in, let's chat about a few things to make your experience even smoother.
Honestly, these little Crab Quiche Appetizers are pretty straightforward, but a few insider tips never hurt, right?
Presentation Perfection: Plating Like a Pro
Presentation is key! Don't just dump those gorgeous Quiche Bites on a plate. Arrange them artfully! I love serving my Mini Crab Quiche on a tiered cake stand for a fancy touch.
A few sprigs of fresh dill or parsley really elevate the look, you know? And trust me, a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette is the perfect complement.
For drinks? A crisp Sauvignon Blanc. Bosh!
Storage Secrets: Keep 'Em Fresh!
Leftover Crab Quiche ? What leftovers?! Just kidding! If you do have some, these Crab Appetizer Bites can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Just pop them in an airtight container. I wouldn’t recommend freezing them, as the texture can get a bit wonky.
When reheating, a quick zap in the microwave or a gentle warm-up in the oven does the trick.
Remix Time: Variations Galore
Want to mix things up? You got it! For a vegetarian option, swap the crab for cooked spinach and feta.
Honestly? Amazing! It´s a great Crustless Quiche Recipe base. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the crab mixture.
Experiment! Don´t be afraid to try different cheeses too. For gluten-free, just ensure all your ingredients are certified gluten-free. Boom! Dietary adaptations are amazing.
Nutrition Nuggets: Goodness in Every Bite
Okay, so these Easy Crab Quiche Bites aren't exactly health food, but they're not terrible either! Each bite is packed with protein from the crab and eggs.
Plus, you get some calcium from the cheese and dairy. Remember this is a Crab Quiche Recipe not really a diet! Everything in moderation, yeah?
So there you have it! My little guide to making the most incredible Crustless Crab Quiche Bites . Go forth and bake, my friend! You've totally got this, and your taste buds will thank you for it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these Crustless Crab Quiche Bites ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! In fact, they're often better made a day ahead. Let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can then gently rewarm them in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) before serving.
This makes you look like you've got your act together, just like contestants on "Come Dine With Me."
What's the best way to prevent my Crustless Crab Quiche Bites from sticking to the muffin tin?
Greasing is absolutely key here. Don't be shy! Use cooking spray or brush the muffin tin cups generously with melted butter. You can even lightly dust them with flour after greasing for extra insurance, just like you would with a cake tin.
If you're still having trouble, consider using silicone muffin liners; they're a game changer and make cleanup a breeze.
I'm not a huge fan of Gruyere cheese. What other cheese can I use in these Crustless Crab Quiche Bites?
No worries, mate! You have options. Swiss cheese is a classic substitute that melts beautifully. Jarlsberg is another good choice, offering a slightly nutty flavor. If you want something with a bit more tang, try a sharp cheddar.
Just remember that stronger cheeses will alter the overall flavour profile, so choose one that complements the crab.
Can I freeze these Crustless Crab Quiche Bites?
Yes, you can freeze them! Let them cool completely after baking, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer safe bag or container. They'll keep for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat, bake from frozen in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Great for batch cooking!
I'm watching my calorie intake. Are there any ways to make these Crabtivating Crustless Quiche Bites lighter?
You bet! You can substitute the heavy cream with more milk, or use a lower fat milk option. Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for some or all of the mayonnaise, adding a tang and reducing the fat content. Also, you could skip the Gruyere or reduce the amount.
Remember to always check your crab meat for shells to ensure it's as pure protein as possible!
My quiche bites are puffed up a lot after baking, is that normal?
A bit of puffiness is normal, it's just the eggs doing their thing! However, excessive puffing and then sinking can indicate that the oven temperature was too high. Ensure your oven is properly calibrated. Once cooled, the Crustless Crab Quiche Bites should settle slightly.
Don't worry, they'll still taste amazing even if they're not perfectly flat on top.
Crabtivating Crustless Quiche Bites A Seaside Sn
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 90 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 0g |
