Jersey Shore...

It is the last weekend before Memorial Day at the Jersey shore...who has plans.  Well if you live in New Jersey I am sure you have a plan.  A BBQ, a trip to the beach, drinks and more drinks with friends at a bar.  For all of you who have not expereinced a Jersey shore weekend or a Jersey summer you do not know what your missing.   There are no words to help me describe it you just have to see it to believe it.  I for one live at the shore and can enjoy the beach, the ocean, fresh crab caught crabbing, clams, Barnegat bay scallops, the whole expereince all year long - I am so lucky!

If you have not visited the Jersey shore do yourself a favor and make it a point to do so.  There is nothing like a walk on the boardwalk, Saw Mill pizza in Seaside, drinks at Martell's Tiki Bar in Point Pleasant, the beach on LBI, or the rides and games in Wildwood.  You name it there is something to eat, drink and see anywhere Down the Shore! Happy Almost Memorial Day...

Jersey Shore Crab Dip
***1 Can Crab Meat (drained and picked over)

1 Can Artichoke Hearts (drained and chopped)
1 Clove Garlic (minced)
1/4 Teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper
1 Tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
2 Tablespoons Mayonnaise
1 Package Cream Cheese (softened)
1 Cup Asiago Cheese (shredded)

In a microwave safe bowl combine all of the ingredients
Place in microwave for 3-4 minutes until hot
Serve with crackers or bread pieces

***Crab claw meat is less expensive than lump crab meat and it is a little sweeter tasting

Crabby Portabellas

So Delicious...

4 Portabella Mushrooms
*1 Can of Claw Crab or Lump /Crab Meat (from seafood department of your grocery store) 
1 Package of Cream Cheese (softened)
4 Scallions (white part cut off and sliced small)
1 Tablespoon Old Bay Seasoning
Ritz Crackers (about half a sleeve crushed)
1/2 cup chicken broth
Salt / Pepper

Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Remove gills from portabella mushrooms.  This can be done easily with a spoon taking care not to break the mushroom sides
Season the inside of each mushroom with with salt / pepper

In a separate bowl combine cream cheese, scallions and Old Bay seasoning.  Mix until well blended

With a tablespoon, gently, stuff each portabella mushroom with the cream cheese filling
In a baking dish pour in chicken broth
Place stuffed mushrooms in the dish close together
Top each mushroom with crushed Ritz crackers
Bake for 30 - 35 minutes or until the center of the mushroom is hot
Broil 1-2 minutes to brown cracker top

Note:  *Crab claw meat is less expensive than lump crab meat and it is a little sweeter tasting.