Lavash with crab sticks, cheese, and eggs is a flavorful, easy-to-make appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or preparing a family meal, this dish will satisfy everyone. Its combination of soft lavash, creamy filling, and fresh herbs makes it both light and satisfying. With minimal cooking required and a few simple ingredients, this recipe should be a go-to in every housewife’s cookbook. Let’s dive into the details, so you can create this tasty treat in no time!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 large sheets of lavash (thin flatbread)
- 4 eggs (hard-boiled)
- 200 grams of cheese (preferably a semi-hard cheese like cheddar or gouda)
- 100 grams mayonnaise or sour cream (for a lighter version)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 200 grams crab sticks (imitation crab meat)
- 3 cloves of garlic
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Hard-boil the eggs: Place the eggs in a pot, cover with cold water, and bring them to a boil. Once the water boils, reduce the heat and let the eggs simmer for 8–10 minutes. When they’re done, transfer them to cold water to cool down before peeling.
- Grate the cheese: Use a medium-sized grater to grate the cheese. Choose a semi-hard cheese like cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella for a nice balance of flavor and meltability.
- Chop the crab sticks: Cut the crab sticks into small, bite-sized pieces or shred them by hand for a more rustic texture.
- Mince the garlic: Use a garlic press or finely chop the garlic cloves.
- Chop the parsley: Wash and finely chop the parsley, discarding any large stems.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Mash the eggs: Once your hard-boiled eggs are cooled and peeled, mash them with a fork or grate them using the large side of a grater.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed eggs, chopped crab sticks, grated cheese, minced garlic, and parsley. Stir well.
- Add the dressing: Stir in the mayonnaise or sour cream to the mixture. This will bind the ingredients together, making a creamy and rich filling. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Lavash Roll
- Lay out the lavash: Spread one lavash sheet on a clean work surface. If your lavash sheets are large, you can cut them into halves or quarters for smaller rolls.
- Add the filling: Spread half of the egg, crab, and cheese filling evenly over the first lavash sheet, leaving a small border around the edges to make rolling easier. Then, place the second lavash sheet on top and spread the remaining filling.
- Roll it up: Carefully roll the lavash into a tight log, starting from one end and working your way to the other. Make sure the filling is distributed evenly as you roll.
Step 4: Refrigerate and Serve
- Chill the roll: Wrap the lavash roll in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for 1-2 hours. Chilling helps the roll to firm up, making it easier to slice.
- Slice and serve: Once chilled, slice the lavash roll into bite-sized pieces, about 1 inch thick, and arrange them on a platter for serving.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Protein: 12 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25 grams
- Fat: 16 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Sugar: 1 gram
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use other fillings in the lavash roll?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, so feel free to experiment with other fillings like smoked salmon, cream cheese, vegetables, or even grilled chicken.
2. What is lavash?
Lavash is a type of soft, thin flatbread commonly used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. It’s perfect for rolling and stuffing with various fillings due to its flexible texture.
3. Can I use fresh crab instead of crab sticks?
Yes, you can use fresh crab meat for a more luxurious version of the dish. However, imitation crab sticks (surimi) are commonly used because they are affordable, readily available, and easy to handle.
4. Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the lavash roll a day ahead. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.
5. Can I freeze the lavash rolls?
It’s not recommended to freeze this appetizer because the mayonnaise or sour cream filling may become watery when thawed, affecting the texture and flavor.
Tips for Making the Perfect Lavash Roll:
- Choose fresh lavash: Fresh lavash is easier to work with and rolls up without tearing. If your lavash seems dry, lightly spritz it with water before assembling.
- Use a sharp knife for slicing: To prevent the roll from falling apart, use a very sharp knife when cutting the lavash roll into slices. You can also refrigerate it for longer to make slicing easier.
- Opt for a creamy dressing: If you prefer a creamier texture, use full-fat mayonnaise or sour cream. For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt or light mayonnaise.
- Add extra herbs: In addition to parsley, you can add dill, cilantro, or chives for extra flavor and freshness.
- Serve chilled: The lavash roll is best served cold or at room temperature. Keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
Storage Tips:
- In the fridge: Store any leftover lavash rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days.
- Avoid freezing: As mentioned earlier, freezing is not recommended due to the mayonnaise or sour cream in the filling. The texture of the roll might become compromised after thawing.
- Refrigerate before serving: If you make the rolls ahead of time, keep them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or foil until serving.
Conclusion:
Lavash with crab sticks, cheese, and eggs is a delightful, easy-to-make appetizer that offers a blend of textures and flavors. This versatile dish can be customized with different fillings to suit any taste, making it a great addition to any meal or gathering. It’s easy to prepare in advance and looks beautiful on a platter. With its creamy, savory filling and soft lavash, this roll is sure to become a favorite at your table.
Whether you’re making it for a party, a family dinner, or simply as a quick snack, lavash rolls are the perfect way to impress your guests or treat yourself. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious appetizer that’s simple, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible!