Are you a seafood lover looking to elevate your cooking game? Look no further! In this article, we’re going to dive into the world of Dungeness crab meat and explore 20 mouthwatering recipe ideas that will make your taste buds sing. From classic dishes like creamy bisque and indulgent pasta, to more innovative creations like tacos with mango salsa and stuffed artichokes, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative with this delicious and versatile ingredient. So grab your apron, sharpen your knives, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of Dungeness crab meat!
Creamy Dungeness Crab Bisque
Experience the indulgence of the Pacific coast with this creamy and flavorful bisque, featuring succulent Dungeness crab as the star ingredient.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Dungeness crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 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.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour; whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream and whole milk; whisk until smooth.
5. Stir in crab meat, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the bisque has thickened slightly.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dungeness Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Savor the sweetness of fresh Dungeness crab in these tender, flavorful cakes, served with a tangy and creamy lemon aioli.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump Dungeness crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 green onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Lemon aioli (recipe below)
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 black pepper.
3. Stir in green onions and garlic until well combined.
4. Form into 8 equal-sized patties.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned.
Lemon Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced clove garlic
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Garlic Butter Dungeness Crab Pasta
This decadent pasta dish combines the sweetness of Dungeness crab with the richness of garlic butter, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine, linguine)
– 1 lb. Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– 4 tbsp. unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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 heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add crab meat and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook until reduced by half.
5. Combine cooked pasta, crab mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dungeness Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner party with these luxurious mushroom caps filled with succulent Dungeness crab and creamy flavors. A perfect combination of textures and tastes that will impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as Portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup fresh Dungeness crab meat
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, softened butter, flour, cheese, breadcrumbs, and garlic.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the crab mixture, dividing it evenly among the caps.
4. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Dungeness Crab Dip
Spicy Dungeness Crab Dip Recipe
This creamy and spicy dip is a perfect blend of flavors, featuring succulent Dungeness crab meat, tangy cream cheese, and a kick of heat from jalapeños. Serve with crackers or chips for a delicious snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container of softened cream cheese
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup of chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/2 teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon of hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
– 8 oz of Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– 1-2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, parsley, scallions, Old Bay seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and cayenne pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Fold in the flaked crab meat and chopped jalapeños.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until warm and bubbly.
5. Serve with crackers, chips, or veggies.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Avocado Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of Dungeness crab with the creaminess of avocado, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine the crab meat, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Cut the avocado in half and remove the pit. Slice into thin pieces.
3. Add the olive oil to the crab mixture and toss to coat.
4. Arrange the avocado slices on a plate or platter.
5. Spoon the crab mixture over the avocado, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 1-2
Dungeness Crab Louie Salad
A classic West Coast salad featuring succulent Dungeness crab, crisp lettuce, and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Dungeness crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1/2 cup chopped celery
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Place mixed greens on a serving platter or individual plates.
3. Spoon the crab mixture over the greens.
4. Top with chopped celery and red onion.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes ( prep time: 5 minutes, assembly: 5 minutes)
Dungeness Crab Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the addition of succulent Dungeness crab meat, adding a touch of luxury to this comfort food classic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– 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. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Add cooked macaroni and flaked crab meat to the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
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.
Dungeness Crab Fried Rice
This recipe combines the sweetness of Dungeness crab with the savory flavor of fried rice, making it a delightful and satisfying meal. With its simplicity and adaptability to various tastes, this dish is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– 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 oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Stir-fry the rice mixture for about 2-3 minutes, incorporating the crab meat towards the end of cooking time.
6. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Corn Chowder
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the sweetness of corn with the tender flesh of Dungeness crab.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 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 5 minutes.
2. Add flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and stir in crab meat and corn kernels. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dungeness Crab Stuffed Artichokes
This recipe combines the sweetness of artichokes with the richness of Dungeness crab, creating a unique and flavorful dish perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 4 large artichokes
– 1/2 cup Dungeness crab meat (fresh or canned)
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Trim the artichoke stems and remove the tough outer leaves.
3. Cut off the top inch of each artichoke, leaving the leaves intact.
4. In a bowl, mix together crab meat, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each artichoke with the crab mixture, dividing it evenly among the four artichokes.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the artichokes and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the artichokes are tender.
8. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes to crisp the leaves.
Cooking Time: 55-65 minutes
Dungeness Crab Benedict with Hollandaise
Elevate your brunch game with this decadent twist on the classic Eggs Benedict. Fresh Dungeness crab adds a sweet and succulent touch to this rich and creamy dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 eggs, poached
– 1/2 cup fresh Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– 4 English muffins, toasted
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup Hollandaise sauce (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Toast the English muffins and set aside.
2. Poach the eggs and keep warm.
3. In a small bowl, gently combine the flaked crab meat with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Assemble the Benedict by placing a toasted English muffin half on each plate, topping with a spoonful of crab meat, and finishing with a poached egg.
5. Drizzle Hollandaise sauce over the top.
Hollandaise Sauce:
1. In a heatproof bowl, whisk together 3 large egg yolks and 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice until smooth.
2. Set the bowl over a pot of simmering water and slowly melt in 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, whisking constantly.
3. Continue to whisk until the sauce thickens and emulsifies.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Gruyere Quiche
This quiche is a perfect blend of flavors, with succulent Dungeness crab meat and nutty Gruyère cheese baked in a flaky pastry crust. It’s an ideal dish for brunch or dinner, and can be served hot or at room temperature.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup Dungeness crab meat
– 1/4 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the crab meat and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and eggs. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Arrange the crab mixture in the pie crust, followed by the Gruyère cheese.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the filling and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Dungeness Crab Tacos with Mango Salsa
Experience the sweetness of the Pacific coast with this refreshing twist on traditional tacos, featuring succulent Dungeness crab and a zesty mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Dungeness crab meat
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sliced radishes, cilantro leaves
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine crab meat, lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Spoon about 1/4 cup of crab mixture onto each tortilla.
4. Top with mango salsa and any desired toppings.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Shrimp Étouffée
This rich and flavorful dish is a twist on the classic Louisiana Étouffée, featuring succulent Dungeness crab and shrimp in a spicy roux-based sauce. Serve over steamed rice for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Dungeness crab meat
– 1/2 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add paprika, cayenne pepper, and flour; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream; bring to a simmer.
5. Add crab meat and shrimp; cook until seafood is pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dungeness Crab Risotto with Saffron
This luxurious risotto combines the sweetness of Dungeness crab with the subtle earthy flavor of saffron, creating a truly decadent dish perfect for special occasions.
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 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 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 translucent.
2. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add white wine (if using); cook until absorbed.
4. Add broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in saffron and crab meat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, crabby take on traditional stuffed shells. Fresh spinach and succulent Dungeness crab add a delicious twist to this comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound cooked Dungeness crab meat
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 8 ounces ricotta cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions; drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, combine crab meat, spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and beaten egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the crab mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dungeness Crab Ceviche with Lime
Brighten up your taste buds with this refreshing seafood dish that combines the sweetness of Dungeness crab with the zing of lime.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Dungeness crab meat, fresh or frozen
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine crab meat, lime juice, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and garlic.
2. Stir gently to combine, taking care not to break up the lumps of crab.
3. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Dungeness Crab and Bacon Deviled Eggs
Elevate your deviled egg game with the rich flavors of Dungeness crab and crispy bacon. These decadent bites are perfect for your next brunch or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup flaked Dungeness crab
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– Chopped chives or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out the yolks and mash them with a fork until smooth.
3. Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper to the yolks. Mix until combined.
4. Stir in the flaked crab and crumbled bacon.
5. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
6. Sprinkle with chives or scallions if desired.
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including prep time)
Dungeness Crab Melt Sandwich
A decadent twist on the classic grilled cheese, this recipe combines sweet and tender Dungeness crab with creamy melted cheese and crispy bread for a truly indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread (such as baguette or Ciabatta)
– 1/2 cup of Dungeness crab meat
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons of grated cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, buttered side down, on the grill.
4. Spread mayonnaise on top of the bread, followed by crab meat, parsley, and cheddar cheese.
5. Top with another bread slice, buttered side up.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until other side is also golden brown.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of Dungeness crab with these 20 savory recipe ideas! From classic dishes like Crab Bisque and Louie Salad, to creative twists like Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli and Crab Tacos with Mango Salsa, there’s something for every taste. Whether you’re looking for comfort food like Mac and Cheese or a light and refreshing salad, these recipes showcase the versatility of Dungeness crab. Try your hand at making Dungeness Crab Stuffed Mushrooms, Crab Risotto with Saffron, or even Crab Melt Sandwich – your palate will thank you!
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