An American specialty that probably originated in the South, crab cakes are light, crispy, and fresh from the sea. Made from crabmeat , usually some breadcrumbs and egg to bind them together, and often a variety of spices, minced vegetables, or both, they can be accompanied by a variety of sauces and are often served with salad, either as a starter or as a light lunch dish. If you’re setting out to cook your own, keep in mind that handling the cake mixture gently will result in a more tender and fluffy final product.