This heart healthy Crab and Cheese Casserole is a low-calorie and diabetic-friendly dish featuring a zucchini crab casserole smothered in melted Swiss cheese. Packed with protein and garden vegetables, it’s a perfect crab meat recipe for a low sodium diet. Enjoy this savory seafood casserole for brunch or as a light heart healthy dinner idea.
Explore more heart healthy casseroles. For the best texture and flavor, choose a firm, low-moisture Swiss cheese.
Swiss cheese, as used in this recipe, melts beautifully and has a mild flavor that complements the crab. Other great options include Gruyère, sharp white cheddar, or a mix of Parmesan and mozzarella for a golden-brown top.
The key is to control the ingredients. Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned, rinse canned crabmeat thoroughly under cold water, and choose low-sodium or unsalted breadcrumbs. You can also use unsalted butter.
Yes, you can substitute imitation crab. Be aware that it is typically made from pollock fish and may have a different texture and a higher sodium content than lump crabmeat, so check the nutrition label.
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette, steamed asparagus, or a side of whole-grain bread to complement the rich flavors.
Main Seafood Dishes
Healthy Casseroles and Bakes
Recipe yields 4 servings
Preheat oven to 375°.
Lightly coat a skillet with nonstick cooking spray and heat over medium heat until hot. Add onion, zucchini and garlic. Sauté until onion is transparent, stirring frequently, about 4 minutes. Set aside.
In large bowl, mix tomatoes, crab, 1/4 cup of the cheese, 1/4 cup of the bread crumbs, pepper and basil. Add zucchini mixture and mix thoroughly but lightly. Transfer mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup of cheese and remaining 1/4 cup of bread crumbs. Dot with the butter. Bake, uncovered, for 30 to 40 minutes, or until crab is cooked and bread crumbs are browned and golden.
If your breadcrumbs aren't browning sufficiently after 40 minutes, you can place the casserole under your oven's broiler for 1-2 minutes. Watch it carefully to prevent burning.