Crab Cakes with Cilantro Mayonnaise: A Delightful Seafood Treat
If you’re looking for an elegant and flavorful dish that brings together the freshness of seafood with a zesty, creamy kick, these Crab Cakes with Cilantro Mayonnaise are the perfect choice. This easy-to-make recipe, originally featured on the box of Kellogg’s Corn Flake Crumbs, promises moist and crisp crab cakes paired with a rich homemade cilantro mayonnaise. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that will impress at any meal, whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion. The mayonnaise, when prepared the day before, becomes even more delicious, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve these crab cakes as an appetizer or a main dish, and enjoy the delightful combination of textures and tastes.
Recipe Details:
| Preparation Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 20 minutes | 35 minutes | 6 |
Ingredients:
For the Cilantro Mayonnaise:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh Cilantro | 1/2 cup |
| Green Pepper | 1/2 cup |
| Dijon Mustard | 2 tsp |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp |
| Pepper | 1/4 tsp |
For the Crab Cakes:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | 2 tbsp |
| Fresh Cilantro | 1/4 cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp |
| Pepper | 1/4 tsp |
| Olive Oil | 3 tbsp |
| Corn Flake Crumbs | 1 cup |
| Fresh Crab Meat | 6-8 oz |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 278.5 kcal |
| Total Fat | 17.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 74 mg |
| Sodium | 953.8 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 15.5 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugar | 3.1 g |
| Protein | 15.9 g |
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cilantro Mayonnaise:
Start by making the cilantro mayonnaise. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, fresh cilantro, and green pepper. Add Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until smooth and well-blended. If you have time, refrigerate the mayo mixture overnight to let the flavors meld. The result will be a flavorful and aromatic condiment that complements the crab cakes perfectly.
2. Prepare the Crab Cake Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, mayonnaise, fresh cilantro, egg, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until the mixture is well combined. Add in 1 cup of the corn flake crumbs to help bind the mixture and give the crab cakes their signature crispiness. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to retain the delicate texture of the crab meat.
3. Shape the Crab Cakes:
Using your hands, divide the crab mixture into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a small, round patty, ensuring that they are compact and firm but not too dense. This helps ensure that the crab cakes hold together during cooking.
4. Coat the Crab Cakes:
Pour the remaining corn flake crumbs into a shallow dish. Gently dip each crab cake into the crumbs, turning them to coat all sides evenly. This coating will add extra crispiness when cooked and give the cakes a golden-brown finish.
5. Cook the Crab Cakes:
In a heavy skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the crab cakes in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the crab cakes for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Depending on your skillet and the size of your crab cakes, you may need to add a little more oil to prevent them from sticking. Turn the cakes gently to avoid breaking them.
6. Serve the Crab Cakes:
Once the crab cakes are perfectly browned and cooked through, remove them from the skillet and place them on a serving plate. Top each crab cake with a generous spoonful of the cilantro mayonnaise. Serve immediately, and enjoy the moist, crispy, and flavorful crab cakes.
Serving Suggestions:
These Crab Cakes with Cilantro Mayonnaise make an excellent appetizer for your next dinner party or family gathering. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or served alongside roasted vegetables for a light yet satisfying meal. The creamy cilantro mayo adds a refreshing burst of flavor, making these crab cakes a delightful treat for any seafood lover.
Pro Tips:
- For a firmer crab cake: If you prefer your crab cakes to be firmer, you can add a small amount of breadcrumbs or another egg to the mixture to help bind the ingredients together.
- Adjust the mayo: For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cilantro mayonnaise.
- Make ahead: The cilantro mayonnaise can be made a day ahead for maximum flavor. If you’re in a hurry, you can prepare it up to 2 hours before serving.
This recipe is a true testament to the versatility and deliciousness of crab. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or simply craving a flavorful seafood dish, these crab cakes with cilantro mayonnaise are sure to be a hit!
