Are you a seafood lover looking for new and exciting ways to incorporate Dungeness crab into your meals? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be diving into 20 delectable recipes that showcase the rich flavor and versatility of this West Coast delicacy. From classic dishes like crab cakes and salads to more adventurous options like crab-stuffed mushrooms and crab risotto, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these mouthwatering recipes are sure to inspire your next seafood adventure. So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in some of the most succulent and satisfying dishes featuring Dungeness crab meat.
Creamy Dungeness Crab Dip with Artichokes
Elevate your snack game with this rich and flavorful dip featuring succulent Dungeness crab, tender artichoke hearts, and a hint of creamy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container of softened cream cheese
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup diced cooked Dungeness crab meat
– 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
3. Stir in parsley, crab meat, artichoke hearts, and lemon juice.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or small cast-iron skillet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is lightly golden and warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Dungeness Crab Linguine with Garlic Butter
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent dish that combines the sweetness of Dungeness crab with a spicy kick. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine
– 1 lb fresh Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine 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 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add crab meat and stir to combine with garlic butter. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and stir to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Stir in hot sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked linguine with crab mixture and toss to coat.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or dill.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dungeness Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with these decadent Dungeness crab stuffed mushrooms. Fresh from the oven, these savory bites are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup fresh Dungeness crab meat
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, butter, garlic, breadcrumbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with paper towels. Fill each cap with the crab mixture, mounding slightly in the center.
4. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Classic Dungeness Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Experience the flaky, buttery goodness of fresh Dungeness crab in a crispy crab cake, paired with a tangy and creamy lemon aioli. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or a simple weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump Dungeness crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Lemon Aioli (see below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 6 portions and shape each portion into a ball. Flatten slightly into patties.
4. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with melted butter.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
Lemon Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Dungeness Crab and Avocado Salad
Celebrate the sweetness of Dungeness crab with this refreshing salad, perfectly balanced by creamy avocado and tangy citrus.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Dungeness crab meat
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, gently combine crab meat, avocado, lemon juice, red onion, and cilantro.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep) + 30 minutes (chilling time)
Garlic Butter Dungeness Crab Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and decadent dish featuring succulent Dungeness crab, garlicky butter, and al dente noodles.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) linguine pasta
– 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (15g) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 tsp (2.5g) paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 lb (225g) Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Stir in lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add flaked crab meat to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic butter mixture.
5. Combine cooked pasta and crab mixture. Toss to coat.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dungeness Crab Louie Salad
This elegant salad is a timeless favorite, featuring succulent Dungeness crab, crisp greens, and tangy Thousand Island dressing. It’s perfect for special occasions or a luxurious lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Dungeness crab meat
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped celery
– 2 tablespoons Thousand Island dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and celery.
2. Drizzle Thousand Island dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Corn Chowder
This creamy chowder is a perfect blend of fresh seafood and sweet corn, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. With the richness of Dungeness crab and the sweetness of corn, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Dungeness crab meat
– 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the clam juice and bring to a simmer.
5. Add the crab meat, corn kernels, and heavy cream. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dungeness Crab Melt Sandwich
Savor the sweet and succulent flavors of Dungeness crab in this indulgent sandwich, perfectly balanced with creamy melted cheese and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup lump Dungeness crab meat
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 4 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 slices of cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce and tomato (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, gently combine crab meat, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. Be careful not to break up the lumps.
3. Butter one side of each bread slice.
4. Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, in the panini press or grill.
5. Top with a slice of cheese, a spoonful of crab mixture, and another slice of cheese.
6. Top with remaining bread slices, butter-side up.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with lettuce and tomato if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Dungeness Crab Risotto with Saffron
This creamy risotto combines the sweet and tender flesh 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 broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat chicken broth in a separate pot.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add Arborio rice; cook, stirring constantly, 1-2 minutes.
3. Add white wine (if using); cook until absorbed.
4. Add warmed 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 threads and crab meat. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Dungeness Crab Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and elegant twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the richness of Dungeness crab.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1/2 cup cooked Dungeness crab meat
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in crab meat, breadcrumbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture is lightly toasted.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the crab mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of peppers during last 5 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Shrimp Étouffée
This classic Louisiana dish combines the sweetness of Dungeness crab with the savory flavor of shrimp, all wrapped up in a spicy roux-based étouffée. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Dungeness crab meat
– 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups fish stock
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
2. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
3. Gradually add fish stock and heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add crab meat and shrimp; cook until pink and heated through.
5. Season with paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dungeness Crab Benedict with Hollandaise
Elevate your brunch game with this indulgent take on Eggs Benedict, featuring succulent Dungeness crab and a rich Hollandaise sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 eggs, poached
– 1/2 pound Dungeness crab meat, flaked
– 4 English muffins, toasted
– 4 slices of Canadian bacon or ham
– 1 cup Hollandaise sauce (see recipe below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Toast the English muffins and cook the Canadian bacon or ham until lightly browned.
2. Assemble the Benedict by placing a toasted English muffin half on a plate, topping with a slice of Canadian bacon or ham, a poached egg, and a spoonful of Dungeness crab meat.
3. Drizzle the Hollandaise sauce over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Hollandaise Sauce:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Combine the softened butter and egg yolks in a heatproof bowl. Set over simmering water and whisk until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and salt.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes, including preparation time.
Dungeness Crab Fried Rice
This flavorful dish combines succulent Dungeness crab with savory fried rice, perfect for a satisfying meal or snack. This recipe is quick and easy to make, and can be customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup 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 oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly toasted.
6. Add the Dungeness crab meat, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
7. Cook for an additional minute, until the flavors have melded together.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dungeness Crab Mac and Cheese
Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with the rich flavor of fresh Dungeness crab. This comforting dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat (Dungeness)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, crab meat, and cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.
6. Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dungeness Crab and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent twist on traditional stuffed shells, featuring succulent Dungeness crab and wilted spinach.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1/2 cup freshly cooked Dungeness crab meat
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine crab meat, spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the crab-spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until shells are tender.
6. Remove foil and top with additional mozzarella cheese; return to oven for an additional 5-7 minutes or until melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Dungeness Crab Tacos with Lime Crema
Savor the sweetness of Dungeness crab in a vibrant and flavorful taco, elevated by a zesty lime crema. This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or a lively gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Dungeness crab meat (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 avocado, diced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime crema (see below for recipe)
– Cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine crab meat, lime juice, red onion, and jalapeño pepper.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning crab mixture onto warmed tortillas and topping with diced avocado.
5. Drizzle lime crema over the top and garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: None necessary! This recipe is ready in under 1 hour.
Dungeness Crab and Gruyère Quiche
This elegant quiche is a perfect combination of flavors, with succulent Dungeness crab meat and nutty Gruyère cheese. It’s ideal for brunch or as a main course for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup diced Dungeness crab meat
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Arrange the crab meat on the pie crust, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese over the crab.
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
Dungeness Crab Cocktail with Spicy Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this refreshing cocktail featuring succulent Dungeness crab, tangy cocktail sauce, and a kick of heat. Perfect for a light and flavorful appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Dungeness crab meat
– 1/2 cup cocktail sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp prepared horseradish
– 1 tsp hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Gently combine crab meat, cocktail sauce, mayonnaise, horseradish, and hot sauce in a medium bowl.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Serve chilled, with lemon wedges on the side.
4. Garnish with parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed! This is a no-cook recipe perfect for a quick and easy appetizer.
Dungeness Crab and Mango Ceviche
Savor the sweetness of fresh mango and the ocean’s bounty with this refreshing Dungeness crab and mango ceviche. A perfect blend of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Dungeness crab meat, picked over for shells
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine crab meat, mango, lime juice, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to break up the crab pieces.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and tender flavor of Dungeness crab with these 20 mouthwatering recipes. From classic dishes like crab cakes and risotto, to innovative twists like tacos and mac and cheese, there’s something for every seafood lover. Try pairing creamy artichokes with a dip, or adding garlic butter to linguine for a decadent treat. Whether you’re in the mood for a salad, soup, sandwich, or quiche, these recipes showcase the versatility of Dungeness crab meat.
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