Are you a seafood lover looking to elevate your culinary game? Look no further! The delicious and prized Dungeness crab is the star of the show in this collection of 20 mouth-watering recipes. With its sweet and tender flesh, Dungeness crab lends itself perfectly to a wide range of dishes, from classic boils and bisques to creative twists like sushi rolls and tacos.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting to explore the world of seafood cooking, these recipes are sure to inspire and delight. From comforting pasta dishes to light and refreshing salads, there’s something for everyone in this list. So grab your apron, sharpen your knives, and get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of the sea with these 20 delicious Dungeness crab recipes.
Creamy Dungeness Crab Bisque
Creamy Dungeness Crab Bisque Recipe
Savor the rich flavors of the Pacific coast with this decadent creamy bisque, featuring succulent Dungeness crab and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Dungeness crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add crab meat; stir to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
3. Stir in heavy cream, whole milk, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let bisque cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm, garnished with parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Dungeness Crab Pasta
A decadent and flavorful pasta dish that combines the richness of garlic butter with the sweetness of fresh Dungeness crab.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fettuccine pasta
– 4 tablespoons (55g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup (120g) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh parsley
– 1 lb (450g) Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly ground nutmeg to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Add flaked crab meat and stir gently to combine.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the garlic butter crab sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Dungeness Crab Cakes
Elevate your crab cake game with the addition of spicy kick from diced jalapeños and a hint of smokiness from chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. These Spicy Dungeness Crab Cakes are perfect for seafood lovers looking to spice up their appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (Dungeness)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 diced jalapeño pepper
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, red bell pepper, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, cayenne pepper, jalapeño, and chipotle pepper.
3. Divide mixture into 6 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
4. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Dungeness Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this decadent recipe featuring succulent Dungeness crab, earthy mushrooms, and a hint of garlic. Perfect for special occasions or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as cremini or portobello)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump Dungeness crab meat
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, garlic, butter, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning. Be careful not to break up the lumps of crab.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and fill each cap with the crab mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Classic Dungeness Crab Boil
Classic Dungeness Crab Boil Recipe
Get ready to enjoy a flavorful and succulent crab boil with this classic recipe! This traditional method of cooking Dungeness crab is a staple in many coastal communities, and is perfect for a special occasion or family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 Dungeness crabs (1-2 pounds each)
– 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the crabs under cold running water, and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. In a large pot or steamer basket, combine Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, vinegar, water, butter, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
4. Add the crabs to the pot or steamer basket, and cover with a lid or foil.
5. Steam the crabs for 8-12 minutes per pound, or until they turn bright red and the flesh is opaque.
6. Remove the crabs from the heat, and let them cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-45 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines the succulent flavors of Dungeness crab with the creaminess of avocado, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a starter for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound Dungeness crab meat
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, lemon juice, and garlic.
2. Stir in diced avocado until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Cheesy Dungeness Crab Dip
Elevate your snack game with this rich and indulgent dip, perfect for any occasion. This creamy treat combines the sweetness of Dungeness crab with the savory flavors of cheese and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 cup lump Dungeness crab meat, drained and flaked
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, parsley, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
3. Fold in the Dungeness crab meat until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekin.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is warm and lightly golden brown.
6. Serve with crackers, chips, or veggies.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dungeness Crab Louie Salad
This classic West Coast salad combines succulent Dungeness crab with crisp greens, tangy dressing, and crunchy veggies for a refreshing treat. Perfect for special occasions or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound fresh Dungeness crab meat
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/2 cup sliced celery
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. In a large bowl, arrange mixed greens, red onion, and celery.
3. Spoon the crab mixture over the greens.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Dungeness Crab Fried Rice
A flavorful and savory dish that combines the sweetness of Dungeness crab with the comfort of fried rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup diced Dungeness crab meat
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Stir in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add the diced Dungeness crab meat and stir until well combined.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Dungeness Crab Legs
Lemon Garlic Dungeness Crab Legs: A Bright and Savory Twist on a Seafood Classic
This recipe combines the sweetness of Dungeness crab with the brightness of lemon and the pungency of garlic, creating a dish that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Dungeness crab legs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse crab legs under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
4. Place crab legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the garlic-lemon mixture evenly over the crab.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crab is opaque and flakes easily.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Corn Chowder
Warm up with this creamy and flavorful chowder, featuring succulent Dungeness crab and sweet corn.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in crab meat, corn, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dungeness Crab Stuffed Artichokes
This indulgent recipe combines the sweetness of artichokes with the rich flavor of Dungeness crab, creating a truly unforgettable dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large artichokes
– 1/2 cup Dungeness crab meat
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the top inch of each artichoke and remove the tough outer leaves.
3. In a bowl, mix together crab meat, breadcrumbs, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each artichoke with the crab mixture, dividing it evenly among the four artichokes.
5. Place the stuffed artichokes in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the artichokes are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dungeness Crab Benedict
Elevate your brunch game with this decadent Dungeness crab benedict, featuring succulent crab meat, tangy hollandaise sauce, and toasted English muffins.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound fresh Dungeness crab meat
– 4 eggs, poached
– 4 English muffins, toasted
– 1 cup hollandaise sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add crab meat and cook until heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, toast English muffins and poach eggs.
4. Assemble the benedict by placing toasted English muffins on a plate, topping with crab mixture, and finishing with a poached egg.
5. Drizzle hollandaise sauce over the top and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Cook time: 4-6 minutes
– Total time: 14-16 minutes
Dungeness Crab Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this decadent recipe that combines the sweetness of fresh Dungeness crab with the richness of macaroni and cheese.
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 cup fresh Dungeness crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
6. Fold in crab meat and cooked macaroni. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dungeness Crab Sushi Rolls
Elevate your sushi game with this decadent recipe featuring fresh Dungeness crab and a delicate sushi rice mixture.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice (sushi rice)
– 1/4 cup Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– 1/4 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup avocado, mashed
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 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, cucumber, and avocado.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board.
4. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place the crab-vegetable mixture in the middle of the rice.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
7. Slice into individual pieces and serve with soy sauce and wasabi.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Dungeness Crab Tacos with Lime Crema
A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines succulent Dungeness crab meat with the brightness of lime and the crunch of fresh cilantro. Perfect for a light and refreshing meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Dungeness crab meat
– 1/2 cup lime crema (see below)
– 8 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt to taste
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, chopped jalapeño, and salt.
2. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Assemble tacos by spooning crab mixture onto tortillas and topping with lime crema, cilantro, and any other desired toppings (such as diced avocado or sliced radishes).
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Gruyère Quiche
This quiche is a decadent twist on the classic French dish, featuring fresh Dungeness crab and rich Gruyère cheese. Perfect for brunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh Dungeness crab meat
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, Gruyère cheese, Dungeness crab meat, red bell pepper, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the mixture into the pie crust and smooth out the top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is golden brown and set.
6. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Dungeness Crab Cioppino
This classic San Francisco-inspired seafood stew is a flavorful celebration of fresh Dungeness crab, clams, mussels, and fish, cooked in a rich tomato broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh Dungeness crab legs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup white wine
– 1/2 cup fish stock
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly grated nutmeg to taste
– 1/2 pound clams, scrubbed and patted dry
– 1/2 pound mussels, scrubbed and patted dry
– 1/4 pound fish fillets (such as halibut or snapper), cut into bite-sized pieces
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, wine, stock, parsley, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir to combine.
4. Add crab legs, clams, mussels, and fish pieces.
5. Simmer, covered, for 10-12 minutes or until seafood is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dungeness Crab Melt Sandwich
Elevate your sandwich game with this decadent Dungeness crab melt, featuring succulent crab meat, melted cheese, and crispy bread. Perfect for a special occasion or a indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup Dungeness crab meat
– 4 slices of white bread ( Ciabatta or baguette work well)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lettuce, tomato, and/or pickles for added freshness
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place two slices, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with crab meat, cheese, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
5. Place the remaining bread slices, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Flip and cook an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: approximately 5-7 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Mango Ceviche
A refreshing twist on traditional ceviche, this recipe combines the sweetness of mango with the tender flavor of Dungeness crab.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Dungeness crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the crab meat and mango.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture, making sure the crab is fully coated.
3. Stir in the chopped cilantro.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Chill time: 30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a culinary celebration of Dungeness crab! This article presents 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility and flavor of this beloved seafood. From classic dishes like Crab Boil and Benedict, to innovative creations like Crab Sushi Rolls and Tacos with Lime Crema, there’s something for every palate. Treat your taste buds to a journey along the coast with these delectable Dungeness crab recipes!
