Crispy Deviled Crab Cakes with Ginger-Citrus Vinaigrette on Mixed Greens

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Crispy Deviled Crab Cakes with Ginger-Citrus Vinaigrette on Mixed Greens.

1. Step 1

   Start by melting the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, toss in the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Next, add the celery and red bell pepper, continuing to cook until all the vegetables are tender, around another 5 minutes. Stir in the dry mustard and cayenne pepper, cooking for an additional 2 minutes to let those flavors meld together. Once done, transfer this mixture to a mixing bowl and let it cool in the refrigerator until it's nice and cold.

2. Step 2

   Once your vegetable mixture is chilled, stir in the mayonnaise, soft bread crumbs, lemon zest, chopped parsley, and the beaten egg. Mix everything together until well combined, then gently fold in the cooked crabmeat. Season this delightful mixture with salt and black pepper to taste.

3. Step 3

   Now, prepare to form your crab cakes! Pour the dry bread crumbs into a shallow bowl. Shape the crab mixture into 8 cakes, each about 1/2 inch thick. Carefully press each cake into the dry bread crumbs, ensuring they are coated on all sides. Shake off any excess crumbs and place the cakes on a plate. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or even overnight if you have the time.

4. Step 4

   While the crab cakes chill, whip up the ginger-citrus vinaigrette. In a bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup of vegetable oil, the zest of one lemon, fresh lemon juice, grated ginger, jalapeño, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Store this vibrant dressing in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.

5. Step 5

   When you're ready to cook, heat some frying oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil heats up, toss your mixed salad greens with the ginger-citrus vinaigrette in a mixing bowl, then divide the dressed greens onto 8 serving plates. If you like, you can add sliced avocado on top of the salads for an extra touch of creaminess.

6. Step 6

   Once the oil is shimmering, carefully fry the crab cakes until they are golden brown on each side, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. After frying, let them drain briefly on a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess grease. Place a crispy crab cake on top of each salad and serve immediately, enjoying the delightful combination of flavors!