Crab and Cream Cheese Stuffed Snow Peas Recipe

If you are looking for a delightful appetizer that bursts with fresh flavors and creamy indulgence, this Crab and Cream Cheese Stuffed Snow Peas Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining tender, crisp snow peas with a luscious blend of crab meat and cream cheese, this dish offers a light yet satisfying bite that’s perfect for entertaining or simply treating yourself. Its vibrant texture and subtle hints of garlic and parsley make every mouthful a celebration, proving that impressive appetizers don’t have to be complicated.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Crab and Cream Cheese Stuffed Snow Peas Recipe lies in its simple, well-chosen ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect harmony of flavor, color, and texture that makes this appetizer truly memorable.

• 48 large snow peas: Fresh and crisp, they provide the perfect shell that’s mild in flavor and delightfully crunchy.
• One 8-ounce package cream cheese (at room temperature): This creamy base adds a rich, smooth texture that complements the crab perfectly.
• ½ pound crab meat (crumbled finely): Sweet and delicate, it brings the star seafood flavor that defines this recipe.
• ¼ cup finely chopped parsley: A fresh herbal note that brightens up the filling and adds a pop of green color.
• 1 medium garlic clove (minced): Adds a subtle aroma and enhances the savory depth of the filling.
• ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (+ more to taste): Brings a smoky, tangy complexity that elevates the overall flavor.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasoning to balance and bring out all the ingredients’ natural flavors.

How to Make Crab and Cream Cheese Stuffed Snow Peas Recipe

Step 1: Blanch the Snow Peas

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rapid boil. Drop in the snow peas and let them blanch for just 30 seconds—this quick cook will soften them just enough while maintaining their vibrant color and crispness. Immediately cool them down in cold water to stop the cooking process, then drain and set aside. This step ensures your snow peas stay fresh and tender, providing the ideal vessel for the creamy filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, blend together the cream cheese, finely crumbled crab meat, chopped parsley, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until the mixture is silky smooth. This blend should taste balanced—bright and fresh from the parsley and garlic, with the subtle umami kick from Worcestershire sauce weaving through every bite.

Step 3: Stuff the Snow Peas

With a sharp paring knife, carefully make a slight split along the curved side of each snow pea, creating a pocket without tearing. Using a pastry bag fitted with a fairly wide opening, fill each pea generously with the cream cheese and crab mixture. This method not only speeds up the process but also gives you beautifully neat, uniform appetizers that look just as good as they taste.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Once all the snow peas are stuffed, cover them and chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This resting time allows the filling to firm up nicely, making them easier to handle and heightening their flavor melding. Serve them chilled for a refreshing and elegant appetizer experience that will impress your guests.

How to Serve Crab and Cream Cheese Stuffed Snow Peas Recipe

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley or a few tiny edible flowers can add an inviting pop of color and freshness. If you like a touch of zest, a light dusting of lemon zest over the top brings a subtle brightness that perfectly complements the crab’s sweetness.

Side Dishes

This Crab and Cream Cheese Stuffed Snow Peas Recipe shines as a party appetizer but can also be paired beautifully with light salads or crisp white wines for a sophisticated starter course. Think cucumber salad with dill or a citrus vinaigrette for a clean, refreshing match that doesn’t compete with the flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these pretty bites on a sleek slate platter or a bed of crushed ice to keep them perfectly chilled throughout your event. For added flair, arrange the stuffed peas alongside slices of lemon or miniature cocktail forks for effortless, elegant snacking that invites conversation and compliments.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers—which might be rare—store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because the snow peas maintain their crispness, they will stay fresh for up to two days. Be sure to keep them chilled until serving again for the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this Crab and Cream Cheese Stuffed Snow Peas Recipe, as the delicate snow peas and creamy filling both lose their texture and freshness once thawed. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh for the best experience.

Reheating

These are best served cold or at room temperature. Reheating is unnecessary and can compromise the delightful crunch of the peas and the creamy texture of the filling. Simply take them out of the refrigerator a few minutes before serving to remove any chill if desired.

FAQs

Can I use imitation crab meat instead of real crab?

Yes, you can substitute imitation crab meat if needed, but fresh or lump crab adds a more authentic and delicate taste that really elevates the recipe. Be sure to finely crumble it to maintain the right texture.

What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

If Worcestershire sauce isn’t available, a splash of soy sauce mixed with a tiny pinch of vinegar can mimic its tangy umami flavor. Just use sparingly to avoid overpowering the delicate crab filling.

Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?

For a vegetarian version, consider finely chopping roasted red peppers or marinated artichoke hearts to replace the crab, combined with cream cheese and herbs to maintain texture and flavor.

How far in advance can I prepare this dish?

You can prepare and stuff the snow peas a few hours ahead of your event, but it’s best not to assemble them more than a day in advance to ensure the peas stay crisp and fresh.

Can I use cooked garlic instead of raw?

Raw minced garlic offers a bright, aromatic punch that complements the filling beautifully. If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, you could roast or sauté it beforehand, but use less to keep the balance right.

Final Thoughts

This Crab and Cream Cheese Stuffed Snow Peas Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients and thoughtful preparation come together to create an unforgettable dish. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or as a special weekday treat, its fresh flavors and elegant presentation will win hearts and appetites alike. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—you’ll find it’s a quick and charming way to bring a touch of gourmet delight to your table!

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