Introduction
Crab and Cream Cheese Stuffed Snow Peas are a delightful, bite-sized appetizer that combines elegance with a burst of fresh, savory flavors. These crisp, vibrant snow peas serve as the perfect vehicle for a rich and creamy filling made with sweet crab meat and tangy cream cheese. It’s a light yet indulgent snack that balances crunch with lusciousness, offering an irresistible taste experience.
This dish holds a special charm for entertaining. The first time I served these at a gathering, they were gone in minutes, with guests marveling at how something so simple could taste so decadent. The sweetness of the crab pairs beautifully with the cream cheese’s mild tang, while the crisp snow peas add a refreshing, textural contrast. A touch of lemon zest or fresh herbs in the filling brings it all together, creating an appetizer that feels sophisticated without being fussy.
Crab and Cream Cheese Stuffed Snow Peas are ideal for any occasion—whether it’s a holiday party, a casual brunch, or a fancy dinner. They’re easy to prepare yet look stunning on a platter, making them a go-to for impressing guests. Serve them chilled for a refreshing starter that’s light, flavorful, and absolutely unforgettable. If you’re looking for a quick yet elegant way to elevate your appetizer game, this recipe is a must-try!
Perfect For:
- Elegant appetizers at parties and gatherings
- Light snacks with a refreshing crunch
- Family dinners with gourmet flair
- A creative dish for potlucks or picnics
- Those seeking a gluten-free, low-carb appetizer option
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crab and Cream Cheese Stuffed Snow Peas offer the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making them a crowd-pleasing choice. Here’s why you’ll love them:
- Fresh and Crunchy: The snow peas provide a crisp, refreshing base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Elegant Presentation: This dish is as visually appealing as it is tasty, ideal for entertaining guests.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of crab, cream cheese, and seasonings creates a savory and satisfying bite.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal cooking involved, this dish is simple to prepare and assemble.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the filling with additional flavors or ingredients to suit your preferences.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Total Time: 25 minutes
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (optional blanching step)
Servings: 4-6 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 120-150 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 8g, Carbs: 6g, Fat: 9g, Fiber: 2g
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 cup cooked crab meat (lump or claw, well-drained)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or scallions
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Snow Peas
- 20-24 fresh snow peas (trimmed and strings removed)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil (optional, for blanching)
- Pinch of salt
Optional Garnishes
- Extra chopped chives or parsley
- Lemon zest
- Paprika or cayenne pepper for color
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Snow Peas
- Trim and Clean: Wash the snow peas thoroughly under running water. Trim the ends and remove the string along the edge to ensure a smooth texture.
- Optional Blanching: If you prefer a slightly tender snow pea, blanch them briefly in boiling salted water for 1 minute. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain well and pat dry.
Make the Crab Filling
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt (if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in the crab meat gently, ensuring it remains intact for texture. Add the chopped chives or scallions and mix until well incorporated.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the flavors as needed, adding more lemon juice or paprika if desired.
Assemble the Stuffed Snow Peas
- Gently open each snow pea along its seam, creating a small pocket for the filling. Be careful not to split them completely.
- Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each snow pea with the crab and cream cheese mixture. Aim for a generous but not overfilled portion to maintain the balance of flavors.
- Arrange the stuffed snow peas on a serving platter, seam-side up for easy handling.
Add Garnishes
- Sprinkle extra chopped chives, parsley, or lemon zest over the stuffed snow peas for added color and freshness.
- For a touch of heat, lightly dust the tops with paprika or cayenne pepper.
How to Serve
Crab and Cream Cheese Stuffed Snow Peas are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:
- Chilled on a Platter: Serve the stuffed snow peas as a chilled appetizer, arranged neatly on a platter for an elegant presentation.
- Paired with Dips: Complement the dish with light dips like a lemon-herb yogurt sauce or a tangy vinaigrette for dipping.
- On a Bed of Greens: Create a fresh and colorful platter by serving the snow peas on a bed of mixed greens or arugula.
- As Part of a Crudité Spread: Include the stuffed snow peas in a crudité spread alongside other fresh vegetables and dips for a complete appetizer offering.
Additional Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh snow peas and high-quality crab meat for the best flavor and texture.
- Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to ensure a smooth and creamy filling.
- Piping Bag for Neat Filling: For a professional look, use a piping bag or zip-top bag with a corner snipped off to fill the snow peas.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the crab filling before assembling and adjust the seasonings to suit your palate.
- Blanching Snow Peas: If you prefer a slightly tender texture, blanch the snow peas briefly, but ensure they retain their bright green color by shocking them in an ice bath.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a touch of Sriracha or red chili flakes to the filling for a spicy variation.
- Herbaceous Twist: Incorporate fresh dill or basil into the filling for an aromatic twist.
- Cucumber Boats: Substitute snow peas with cucumber slices as a base for the crab filling.
- Avocado Cream Filling: Blend avocado with cream cheese and lime juice as an alternative filling.
- Smoked Salmon Addition: Mix in small pieces of smoked salmon for an elevated seafood flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese Version: Swap cream cheese with sharp cheddar for a more robust flavor.
- Asian-Inspired: Add a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil to the filling for a fusion twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace crab with finely chopped artichoke hearts or hearts of palm for a plant-based alternative.
- Mini Bell Peppers: Use halved mini bell peppers instead of snow peas for a colorful variation.
- Gluten-Free Crackers: Serve the filling on gluten-free crackers as an alternative presentation.
Freezing and Storage
- Freezing: This recipe is best served fresh. Freezing the stuffed snow peas is not recommended as it can affect the texture of both the filling and the snow peas.
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Consume within this time for optimal freshness.
Special Equipment
- Sharp Knife: For trimming and creating pockets in the snow peas.
- Mixing Bowl: For preparing the creamy crab filling.
- Piping Bag or Spoon: To neatly fill the snow peas.
- Cutting Board: For preparing the vegetables and crab meat.
- Platter or Serving Dish: To present the stuffed snow peas beautifully.
FAQ Section
- Can I use imitation crab for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute imitation crab, but the flavor may differ slightly. Fresh crab meat is recommended for the best taste. - Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the snow peas just before serving for maximum freshness. - Can I use snap peas instead of snow peas?
While snow peas work best due to their flat shape, you can use snap peas, though they may hold less filling. - What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can substitute cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese, ricotta, or Greek yogurt for a lighter option. - Can I serve these warm?
These are best served chilled or at room temperature to maintain the texture and flavor balance. - How do I prevent soggy snow peas?
Ensure the snow peas are fully dry before filling, and avoid overfilling with wet ingredients. - What herbs pair well with this recipe?
Chives, dill, parsley, and cilantro all complement the flavors of crab and cream cheese. - How can I make the filling healthier?
Use light cream cheese or Greek yogurt and increase the ratio of fresh herbs for added nutrition. - What other seafood can I use?
Finely chopped shrimp or lobster can be excellent alternatives to crab meat. - Can I skip the garnish?
While optional, garnishes like chives and lemon zest enhance both the flavor and visual appeal of the dish.
Conclusion
Crab and Cream Cheese Stuffed Snow Peas bring together the elegance of fresh seafood and the creamy indulgence of seasoned cheese in a bite-sized delight. These vibrant, crunchy snow peas perfectly complement the rich and flavorful filling, making every bite a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
What makes this recipe shine is its versatility—it’s an ideal choice for everything from sophisticated appetizers at dinner parties to refreshing snacks on casual afternoons. Plus, the simplicity of preparation ensures you can enjoy gourmet flavor without the hassle.
Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself to a refined yet easy-to-make dish, Crab and Cream Cheese Stuffed Snow Peas are sure to delight. Try them today and savor the balance of fresh, creamy, and savory in every bite. Don’t forget to share your creations—I’d love to see your unique spin on this recipe! Enjoy this delectable treat!