Crispy Crab Cakes & Summer Basil Lemonade

As much as I love cooking, sometimes hiring a caterer is the best way to go when planning a special party. Here are some photos I shot of an event catered by 8CATERING.  Carmine, the owner was kind enough to share a few recipes with me: Summer Basil Lemonade and Crispy Crab Cakes.

Summer Basil Lemonade

Summer Basil Lemonade

Serves 12 

1/2 cup sugar 

4 1/2 cups water

3 1/3 cups fresh lemon juice (about 8 lemons)

1/4 cup basil leaves (about 5 leaves)

Directions

Combine sugar and 1/2 cup water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat. Let stand until completely cool.

In a 2 1/2-quart pitcher, stir remaining 4 cups water, the syrup, lemon juice, and basil. Refrigerate. To serve, pour into bottles and add a colorful straw.

Crispy Crab Cakes

Crispy Crab Cakes

Makes 20 to 24 mini crab cakes

Ingredients

1 pound fresh crabmeat

1/3 cup fresh breadcrumbs or crackers

3 shallots, finely chopped

1 bunch coriander, chopped

1/2 cup finely chopped piquillo pepper

1/4 cup mayonnaise 

2 egg whites

1/2 lemon, juiced

1 teaspoon salt

freshly ground pepper

Corn meal, for dusting

1/2 cup peanut oil for frying

Spicy Mayo

1 cup mayo

1 tsp sriracha hot chili sauce 

Directions

In a large bowl, mix together all ingredients, except for the flour and peanut oil. Shape into mini patties and dust with flour.

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When oil is hot, carefully place crab cakes, in batches, in pan and fry until browned, about 4 to 5 minutes. Carefully flip crab cakes and fry on other side until golden brown, about 4 minutes. Top with dollop of spicy mayo.

About 8catering:

At 8 Catering, we have endeavoured to establish a professional and courteous off premise catering service.

Whether it is a romantic dinner for two or a corporate event for 500, we stake our reputation on delivering exquisite taste, passion and service. Our courteous and friendly staff can assist you with any and all your needs.

We can help select, organize and execute an event to remember. From product launches to cocktail parties, we can make your corporate event or personal celebration a great success.

*all the food is prepared and styled by 8catering photos by me :)