Welcome to the fresh and tangy world of Zesty Citrus Crab Bites! These little morsels combine rich crab meat with bright citrus notes, all nestled in a crispy phyllo shell. Perfect for a party or a special dinner starter.
Crab meat is the star of the show, offering a sweet and delicate flavor. Make sure it's fresh for the best taste. Mayonnaise adds creaminess, binding everything together smoothly. The lemon juice and lime zest bring a zesty punch that complements the crab perfectly. A hint of smoked paprika and cayenne pepper adds warmth and a touch of heat. Cilantro introduces a fresh, herbal note, while panko breadcrumbs help to bind the mixture and add texture. Finally, the mini phyllo pastry shells provide a crisp, buttery base for the crab mixture.
Serve these Zesty Citrus Crab Bites with a chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, which pairs nicely with the citrus flavors. A light, crisp salad with arugula and grapefruit segments would complement these bites perfectly.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that's warming up, grab a mixing bowl and toss in the crab meat, mayonnaise, lemon juice, lime zest, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and cilantro. Season with a bit of salt and pepper — just enough to awaken the flavors.
Gently fold in the panko breadcrumbs. You want everything well-combined but be careful not to overmix. Now, take your mini phyllo pastry shells and fill them with the crab mixture. Arrange them neatly on a baking sheet.
Lightly brush the tops with olive oil — this helps them crisp up beautifully. Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let them bake for about 10-12 minutes. You'll know they’re done when the tops are a lovely golden brown and the crab mixture is heated through.
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