Creating the perfect Garlic Butter Crab Toasts is a step-by-step process that combines simple techniques with fresh ingredients. Follow these instructions to make a dish that will tantalize your taste buds.

Preparing the Crab Mixture

1. Cook the Crab Meat: If using fresh crabs, steam them for about 10 minutes until they turn bright red. Allow them to cool, then extract the meat carefully, ensuring no shell fragments remain.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, melted garlic butter, lemon juice, parsley, chives, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to ensure the crab meat stays intact while absorbing all the flavors.

Toasting the Baguette

4. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Prepare the Baguette Slices: Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil on both sides.
6. Toast the Bread: Place the baking sheet in the oven and toast the baguette slices for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges.

Assembling the Toasts

7. Top the Toasts: Remove the toasted baguette slices from the oven. Spoon generous amounts of the crab mixture onto each slice.
8. Add Cheese (Optional): If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the crab mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
9. Final Bake: Return the assembled toasts to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the cheese to melt slightly.
10. Garnish: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with paprika for color, and serve immediately.