As a seafood lover, there’s nothing quite like the taste and texture of fresh Dungeness crab. Whether you’re looking for a rich and creamy bisque, a spicy linguine dish, or a decadent mac and cheese recipe, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll be diving into 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility and flavor of Dungeness crab meat.
From classic dishes like Crab Louie Salad to innovative recipes like Crab Tacos with Lime Crema, there’s something for every seafood enthusiast. And best of all, these recipes are sure to impress your friends and family with their bold flavors and impressive presentation.
So grab a plate of crackers and get ready to dive into the world of Dungeness crab meat! In our next section, we’ll be sharing the first 6 recipes that will make your taste buds do the happy dance…
Creamy Dungeness Crab Bisque
Experience the rich flavors of the Pacific Northwest with this creamy bisque, featuring succulent Dungeness crab as the star ingredient. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Dungeness crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in crab meat, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Gradually add heavy cream and whole milk, whisking until smooth.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Spicy Dungeness Crab Linguine
Elevate your pasta game with this bold and flavorful dish, combining succulent Dungeness crab with spicy kick from red pepper flakes. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine
– 1 lb Dungeness crab meat (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add crab meat, white wine (if using), and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crab is heated through.
4. Toss cooked linguine with the crab mixture, season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Dungeness Crab Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent Garlic Butter Dungeness Crab Pasta recipe, featuring succulent crab meat and a rich, creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. linguine
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 tablespoon of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook until reduced by half.
4. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken slightly.
5. Add flaked crab meat and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta and garlic butter sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dungeness Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Experience the fresh flavors of the coast with these succulent crab cakes, elevated by a zesty and creamy lemon aioli.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump Dungeness crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp mayonnaise
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 tsp Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/2 cup aioli (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each into a ball.
4. Flatten each ball slightly into a cake shape.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Meanwhile, mix lemon juice with aioli in a small bowl.
7. Serve crab cakes warm with lemon aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Classic Dungeness Crab Louie Salad
Classic Dungeness Crab Louie Salad Recipe
This timeless salad is a staple of San Francisco’s culinary scene, featuring succulent Dungeness crab, crisp greens, and a tangy dressing. A perfect combination for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound jumbo lump Dungeness crab meat
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, crab meat, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. Sprinkle blue cheese over the top of the salad.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and mayonnaise until smooth.
4. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Dungeness Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with these decadent Dungeness crab stuffed mushrooms, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. Freshly caught Dungeness crab meat is the star of this show, paired with earthy mushrooms and savory cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello)
– 1/2 cup fresh Dungeness crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushroom caps and sauté until tender, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a separate bowl, mix crab meat, cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the crab mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crab is heated through and the mushrooms are tender.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheesy Dungeness Crab Dip
Elevate your snack game with this creamy, cheesy dip featuring succulent Dungeness crab.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
– 8 oz Dungeness crab meat, flaked
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning until smooth.
3. Stir in the cheddar cheese until well combined.
4. Fold in the flaked Dungeness crab meat.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the dip is heated through and lightly golden brown on top.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Avocado Sushi Rolls
A refreshing twist on traditional sushi rolls, these bite-sized treats combine the sweetness of Dungeness crab with the creaminess of avocado. Perfect for a light and satisfying snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked Dungeness crab meat
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup sushi rice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– Salt to taste
– Optional: soy sauce and wasabi for serving
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, mix together crab meat and diced avocado.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place the crab-avocado mixture in the center of the rice.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo sushi mat or a clean tea towel, applying gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
6. Slice into individual pieces and serve with soy sauce and wasabi if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (preparing sushi rice) + assembly time
Dungeness Crab Tacos with Lime Crema
Elevate your taco game with this refreshing seafood twist. Succulent Dungeness crab pairs perfectly with the tangy zip of lime crema, all wrapped up in a crispy shell.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Dungeness crab meat
– 1/2 cup lime crema (see below)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Lime Crema:
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Zest of 1 lime
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat with a squeeze of lime juice and a pinch of salt.
2. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Fry tortillas in hot oil until crispy, about 30 seconds per side.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning crab mixture onto tortillas, topping with cilantro and dolloping lime crema.
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Dungeness Crab Mac and Cheese
Dungeness Crab Mac and Cheese Recipe
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the rich flavor of Dungeness crab. This creamy, indulgent dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz Dungeness crab meat, flaked
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, crab meat, and cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Dungeness Crab Fried Rice
A flavorful and savory twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines succulent Dungeness crab with aromatic vegetables and a hint of spice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup Dungeness crab meat
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Push vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack an egg into the other half; scramble until cooked through. Mix with vegetables.
5. Add cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
6. Fold in Dungeness crab meat, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer to a serving platter; garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Corn Chowder
This creamy chowder is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring succulent Dungeness crab, sweet corn, and aromatics. A comforting and indulgent soup for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Dungeness crab meat
– 2 cups fresh corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add heavy cream and whole milk, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in crab meat and corn kernels. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dungeness Crab Benedict with Hollandaise
Elevate your brunch game with this decadent Dungeness crab benedict featuring a rich and creamy hollandaise sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 eggs, poached
– 1/2 cup Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– 4 English muffins, toasted
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Hollandaise sauce (recipe below)
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Toast the English muffins.
2. In a pan, combine melted butter, garlic, and crab meat. Cook over medium heat until heated through.
3. Poach eggs according to package instructions.
4. Assemble the benedict by placing toasted English muffin halves on plates, topping with crab mixture, and finishing with poached eggs.
5. Drizzle hollandaise sauce over the top.
Hollandaise Sauce:
1. In a double boiler, melt 2 tablespoons butter over simmering water.
2. Add 2 egg yolks and whisk until smooth.
3. Slowly pour in 1/2 cup melted butter while continuously whisking.
4. Season with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time:
– Hollandaise sauce: 10 minutes
– Assembling the benedict: 5 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Spinach Quiche
A flavorful twist on a classic quiche, this recipe combines the sweet and tender flesh of Dungeness crab with the earthy goodness of spinach. Perfect for brunch or dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 cup Dungeness crab meat (flaked)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 large egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg, salt, and pepper. Add chopped spinach and flaked crab meat; mix well.
4. Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
5. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Dungeness Crab Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and visually appealing dish. Succulent Dungeness crab meat is paired with bell peppers, creating a perfect harmony of sweet and savory.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 pound Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add crab meat, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the crab mixture, filling to the top.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese on top of each pepper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley (if using). Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Artichoke Flatbread
A flavorful and refreshing flatbread recipe that combines the sweetness of artichokes with the savory taste of Dungeness crab.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh artichoke hearts
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump Dungeness crab meat, drained and flaked
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Top with artichoke hearts, crab meat, garlic, and lemon juice.
7. Fold the edges of the dough up over the filling, creating a flatbread shape.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dungeness Crab Paella with Saffron Rice
Experience the authentic flavors of Spain with this mouthwatering Dungeness crab paella, infused with the luxurious aroma and subtle yellow hue of saffron.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Calasparra rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (4-5 minutes).
4. Add crab meat, bell pepper, and smoked paprika; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, saffron mixture, salt, and pepper.
6. Transfer paella to a preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dungeness Crab Cocktail with Spicy Sauce
Experience the sweet and succulent flavor of fresh Dungeness crab paired with a spicy kick in this refreshing cocktail recipe. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique appetizer for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Dungeness crab meat
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or scallions (optional)
– Spicy Sauce (see below)
Spicy Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco or Sriracha)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
Instructions:
1. Gently combine crab meat, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning in a medium bowl.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, stir in chopped chives or scallions (if using).
5. Serve chilled, accompanied by Spicy Sauce on the side.
Cooking Time: None
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavor and tender texture of Dungeness crab meat! This article presents 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase this prized seafood ingredient. From creamy bisques and pasta dishes to sushi rolls and tacos, there’s something for every palate. Explore classic combinations like crab Louie salad and mac and cheese, or try innovative twists like crab-stuffed mushrooms and artichoke flatbread. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious foodie, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and inspire new culinary creations.
