Craving something fresh from the ocean? Look no further than Dungeness crab, a delicacy prized for its sweet and tender flesh. With its succulent flavor and versatility in cooking methods, it’s no wonder why seafood lovers go crazy for this West Coast favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, we’ve got 20 mouth-watering recipes that will make your taste buds do the happy dance.
From classic dishes like Dungeness Crab Louie Salad to innovative creations like Spicy Dungeness Crab Tacos and Herb-Infused Dungeness Crab Risotto, our collection has something for every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of chowder or a decadent indulgence like Dungeness Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll dive into the wonderful world of Dungeness crab recipes and share our favorite ways to prepare this seafood superstar. So grab your apron, sharpen those knives, and get ready to dig in!
Creamy Dungeness Crab Bisque
Savor the rich flavors of the Pacific Northwest with this velvety bisque, featuring succulent Dungeness crab and a hint of cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Dungeness crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup seafood broth (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in flour; cook 1 minute.
4. Gradually add cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer; cook 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
6. Add crab meat, seafood broth, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Dungeness Crab Pasta
This indulgent pasta dish combines the sweetness of fresh Dungeness crab with the richness of garlic butter, all wrapped up in a flavorful and satisfying meal. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine, linguine)
– 1 lb. jumbo lump Dungeness crab meat
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add crab meat, white wine (if using), and lemon juice. Stir gently to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until crab is heated through.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the garlic butter crab mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
7. Serve immediately, enjoying the rich flavors of this decadent dish.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Spicy Dungeness Crab Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this refreshing recipe that combines the sweetness of Dungeness crab with a kick of heat from chipotle peppers. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Dungeness crab meat
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cilantro, avocado, sour cream, and diced tomatoes for toppings
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, chipotle peppers, mayonnaise, lime juice, and honey.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating for 1-2 minutes.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning crab mixture onto tortillas.
6. Top with desired toppings, if using.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Dungeness Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Elevate your seafood game with these flavorful crab cakes, perfectly balanced by a zesty lemon aioli.
Ingredients:
For the crab cakes:
– 1 lb jumbo lump Dungeness crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
For the lemon aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Divide mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a cake.
4. Place cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, and salt in a small bowl to make the aioli.
6. Serve crab cakes hot with a dollop of lemon aioli.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Classic Dungeness Crab Louie Salad
Experience the quintessential California coastal cuisine with this timeless recipe, featuring succulent Dungeness crab, crisp greens, and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump Dungeness crab meat
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup chopped celery
– 1/2 cup sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp ketchup
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 hard-boiled egg quarters, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, celery, and onion.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens.
3. Arrange the crab mixture on top of the greens.
4. Drizzle mayonnaise, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce over the crab.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with sliced hard-boiled eggs.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Dungeness Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this decadent recipe featuring fresh Dungeness crab and earthy mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup Dungeness crab meat
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, butter, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and remove stems.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the crab mixture, mounding slightly in center.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over stuffed mushrooms.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Asian-Inspired Dungeness Crab Stir-Fry
This recipe combines succulent Dungeness crab with the bold flavors of Asia, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner. With its delicate sweetness and savory aromas, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Dungeness crab meat
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic, stir-frying until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the bell peppers and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until tender-crisp.
4. Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil.
5. Add the Dungeness crab meat, cooking until heated through, about 1-2 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Dungeness Crab and Avocado Sushi Rolls
Elevate your sushi game with this refreshing and flavorful recipe featuring succulent Dungeness crab and creamy avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup short-grain Japanese rice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– Salt and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions. Allow it to cool.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the crab meat and a pinch of salt.
3. Lay the nori sheet 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 a few pieces of crab meat and avocado in the middle of the rice.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or a clean tea towel. Apply gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
6. Slice into individual pieces and garnish with salt and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (sushi is typically served raw)
Herb-Infused Dungeness Crab Risotto
Experience the rich flavors of the sea with this creamy and aromatic risotto dish, featuring succulent Dungeness crab and a medley of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 pound Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add wine (if using), thyme, parsley, and paprika; stir to combine.
4. Gradually add warmed broth, stirring continuously, until liquid is absorbed. Repeat process 3-4 times.
5. Stir in crab meat; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Corn Chowder
This creamy chowder combines the sweetness of fresh corn with the succulent flavor of Dungeness crab, perfect for a warm and satisfying meal. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this delicious soup in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Dungeness crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, potatoes)
– 2 ears of corn, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened.
2. Add mixed vegetables, garlic, and corn; cook for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
6. Add crab meat and heavy cream/half-and-half; stir gently.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Dungeness Crab with Garlic Butter
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Dungeness crab, perfectly grilled and paired with a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Dungeness crab legs, rinsed under cold water
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse crab legs under cold water; pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, and lemon zest.
4. Place crab legs on the grill; brush with garlic butter mixture.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes per side, or until crab is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Serve hot with additional garlic butter sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Artichoke Dip
A rich and creamy dip that combines the sweetness of Dungeness crab with the tanginess of artichoke hearts, perfect for a party or gathering. This recipe is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 pound Dungeness crab meat, flaked
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine artichoke hearts, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and chopped parsley.
4. Fold in flaked Dungeness crab meat.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun-Style Dungeness Crab Boil
Get ready to dig into a flavorful and spicy crab boil, Cajun-style! This classic Lowcountry dish is perfect for a special occasion or a casual get-together with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Dungeness crabs, cleaned and halved
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh scallions
– 1/2 cup beer (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or crab cooker, combine Cajun seasoning, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, parsley, and scallions.
2. Add the crabs to the pot, cover with a lid, and cook for 10-12 minutes per pound or until they turn bright red and the meat is easily removable from the shell.
3. If using beer, add it to the pot during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
4. Remove the crabs from the pot and serve immediately with crusty bread or crackers.
Cooking Time: 30-45 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Mango Ceviche
Experience the sweet and tangy combination of fresh Dungeness crab, juicy mango, and zesty lime juice in this refreshing ceviche recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Dungeness crab meat
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the crab meat, mango, and lime juice.
2. Stir gently to distribute the lime juice evenly among the ingredients.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, sprinkle with cilantro and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-cook, fresh-from-the-fridge delight.
Dungeness Crab Eggs Benedict
Elevate your breakfast game with this decadent twist on the classic eggs benedict, featuring succulent Dungeness crab.
Ingredients:
– 4 eggs, poached
– 1/2 cup Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 4 English muffins, toasted
– 1 cup Hollandaise sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Poach eggs according to package instructions.
2. In a small skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add crab meat and cook until heated through, about 2 minutes.
3. Toast English muffins and assemble by placing a toasted half on each plate, topping with a poached egg, and spooning crab mixture over the egg.
4. Drizzle Hollandaise sauce over the top of each serving.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Spinach Quiche
This quiche is a perfect blend of savory flavors, featuring succulent Dungeness crab, wilted spinach, and creamy eggs. It’s an ideal dish for brunch or dinner, and can be served as a main course or as part of a buffet.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup Dungeness crab meat
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a skillet, sauté the spinach leaves until wilted. Add the crab meat and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and grated cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Arrange the cooked crab and spinach mixture in the pie crust.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the filling.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Pepper Dungeness Crab Legs
Brighten up your seafood dinner with the zesty flavors of lemon and pepper! This simple recipe brings out the sweetness in Dungeness crab legs.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound Dungeness crab legs, thawed
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the crab legs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and black pepper.
4. Place the crab legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the melted butter evenly over the crab legs.
6. Drizzle the lemon-pepper mixture over the crab legs, making sure they’re well-coated.
7. Sprinkle chopped parsley for added freshness.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crab is lightly browned and fragrant.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Gruyere Mac and Cheese
This indulgent macaroni dish combines the sweetness of Dungeness crab with the creaminess of Gruyère cheese, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup diced Dungeness crab meat (about 6 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly whisk in milk, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in Gruyère cheese until melted. Add crab meat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a large baking dish. Top with additional grated Gruyère cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Shrimp Paella
Experience the rich flavors of Spain with this mouthwatering Dungeness Crab and Shrimp Paella, featuring succulent seafood and savory spices. This classic dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Arborio rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 pound Dungeness crab meat
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup fish stock (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp and crab meat; cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink.
4. Stir in the saffron, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the rice and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
7. If using fish stock, add it during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Asparagus Tart
This elegant tart combines the sweetness of fresh asparagus with the richness of Dungeness crab, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 lb Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a bowl, combine crab meat, asparagus, garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush the pastry with melted butter.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the flavors of the sea with these 20 mouth-watering Dungeness crab recipes! From creamy bisques to spicy tacos and decadent mac and cheese, there’s something for every seafood lover. Try classic dishes like Louie salad and stuffed mushrooms, or venture out with innovative recipes like mango ceviche and asparagus tart. Whether you’re a fan of Asian-inspired stir-fries or Cajun-style boils, these recipes showcase the versatility and deliciousness of Dungeness crab. So go ahead, dive in, and get cracking!
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