Mini crab cakes and kicked up tartar sauce can be a delicious and satisfying dish that also offers several health and nutritional benefits. Here are some of the benefits you can expect:
1. High Protein: Crab meat is a great source of high-quality protein. It contains all the essential amino acids needed by your body to build and repair tissues, support immune function, and maintain overall health.
2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Crab meat is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These fatty acids are beneficial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation in the body.
3. Low in Fat: While crab meat is relatively low in fat, it provides healthy fats that are important for the body. It contains minimal saturated fat and cholesterol, making it a suitable choice for those watching their fat intake.
4. Essential Minerals: Crab meat is a good source of essential minerals such as selenium, zinc, copper, and magnesium. These minerals play a crucial role in various bodily functions, including immune support, metabolism, and bone health.
5. Vitamin B12: Crab meat is an excellent source of vitamin B12, which is necessary for the production of red blood cells and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
6. Antioxidants: Crab meat contains antioxidants such as selenium and vitamin C, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and promote overall health.
Regarding the tartar sauce, it is typically made with ingredients like mayonnaise, pickles, onions, and herbs. While tartar sauce is delicious, it can be high in calories and fat due to the mayonnaise. However, you can “kick it up” by adding healthier ingredients like Greek yogurt or low-fat mayonnaise to reduce the overall calorie and fat content while still enjoying its flavors.
In summary, mini crab cakes and kicked up tartar sauce can provide a range of health benefits, including high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, essential minerals, and vitamins. Just be mindful of the tartar sauce ingredients and choose healthier options to make it a more nutritious accompaniment.
Mini crab cakes and kicked up tartar sauce
Ingredients:
Jalapeño Tartar Sauce
1 cup mayonnaise
1 whole lime zest and juice
½ cup Sliced Tamed™ Jalapeño Peppers finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Crab Cakes
½ cup mayonnaise
1 large egg beaten
¼ cup Sliced Tamed™ Jalapeño Peppers finely chopped
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon Sliced Tamed™ Jalapeño Peppers brine
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lb jumbo lump crab meat picked over for shells
¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, plus more for garnish
2 tablespoons cilantro chopped, plus more for garnish
¼ cup canola or vegetable oil
Lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
Make the tartar sauce: In a small bowl, add the mayonnaise, lime zest, chopped Mezzetta® Tamed Sliced Jalapeños, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir together to combine and set aside. Yields 1 cup.
Make the crab cakes: In a large mixing bowl, add the mayonnaise, beaten egg, Dijon mustard and Mezzetta® Tamed Sliced Jalapeños and Mezzetta® Tamed Sliced Jalapeño brine. Whisk to combine.
Add in the crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, parsley and cilantro, additional salt and pepper to taste and mix gently until combined. Form the mixture into 8 equal patties.
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the crab cakes and cook, in batches, until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side.
Garnish the crab cakes with extra chopped parsley and cilantro and serve with lime wedges and jalapeño tartar sauce.