As the weather gets colder, our taste buds start to crave something warm, comforting, and indulgent. And what better way to satisfy that craving than with a plate of succulent snow crab? This delightful crustacean is a staple in many seafood-loving households, and for good reason – its sweet and tender flesh is perfect for savoring on its own or incorporating into a variety of dishes.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of snow crab, sharing 20 delectable recipes that showcase this ingredient’s versatility. From classic pairings like garlic butter and lemon aioli to more adventurous combinations like spicy pasta and mango salsa, we’ve got something for every seafood enthusiast. So grab your apron, fire up your stove, and get ready to dive into the world of snow crab!
Garlic Butter Snow Crab Legs
Add a decadent twist to your snow crab legs with this easy and flavorful recipe.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound snow crab legs, thawed
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (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 butter, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the crab legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the crab legs, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crab is lightly browned and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Snow Crab and Corn Chowder
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of sweet corn, succulent snow crab, and creamy goodness. Serve with crusty bread for a cozy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound snow crab legs, thawed
– 2 medium ears of corn, husked and sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups fish broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add corn and flour; cook for an additional minute.
3. Add snow crab legs, fish broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until crab is heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Snow Crab Pasta
This Spicy Snow Crab Pasta recipe combines the sweetness of snow crab with the heat of red pepper flakes, all wrapped up in a flavorful and spicy pasta dish. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 1 cup snow crab meat, drained and flaked
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup red pepper flakes
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in snow crab meat and lemon zest. Cook until heated through.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the crab mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Snow Crab Salad with Avocado
Snow Crab Salad with Avocado Recipe
Summary: This refreshing salad combines succulent snow crab legs with creamy avocado, crunchy red bell peppers, and a zesty lemon dressing for a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound snow crab legs
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and diced
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, gently combine snow crab legs, avocado, and red bell pepper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the dressing over the crab mixture and toss gently to coat.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Snow Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Enjoy the rich flavor of snow crab paired with a tangy and creamy lemon aioli in this simple yet impressive recipe.
Ingredients:
For the Snow Crab Cakes:
– 1 pound snow crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
For the Lemon Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine snow crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and egg.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined.
5. Divide mixture into 8 equal portions and shape into patties.
6. Pan-fry crab cakes for 2-3 minutes per side or bake for 12-15 minutes.
7. For the lemon aioli, combine all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Snow Crab Fried Rice
Elevate your fried rice game with this delectable Snow Crab Fried Rice recipe! This dish combines the sweetness of snow crab with the savory flavors of soy sauce and spices, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• 1/2 cup snow crab meat (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 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 snow crab meat, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until heated through.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Stir-fry the rice mixture for about 5 minutes, until well combined and heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Snow Crab and Shrimp Boil
Enjoy a flavorful and refreshing seafood boil with snow crab and shrimp!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Snow Crab legs, thawed
– 1 lb Large Shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons Old Bay Seasoning
– 1 tablespoon Lemon Pepper
– 1/4 cup Butter
– 2 cloves Garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup White Wine (optional)
– 4 cups Water
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with water and add the Old Bay Seasoning, Lemon Pepper, and Butter.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.
3. Add the Garlic and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add the Snow Crab legs and Shrimp; stir gently to combine.
5. Simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes or until the seafood is cooked through.
6. Remove from heat and add Salt to taste.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Snow Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with these succulent Snow Crab Stuffed Mushrooms. Flaky snow crab meat is perfectly balanced by the earthy flavor of sautéed mushrooms and a hint of creamy cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup snow crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté mushrooms and onion until tender.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in snow crab meat and cook until heated through.
5. Stuff each mushroom cap with the crab mixture, dividing it evenly among the caps.
6. Top each stuffed mushroom with grated cheese.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Snow Crab Bisque
Warm up with a rich and creamy Snow Crab Bisque, perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion. This recipe combines the sweetness of snow crab with aromatic spices and a touch of cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound snow crab claws
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fish stock (or substitute with chicken or vegetable stock)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add snow crab claws, fish stock, and paprika. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the crab is heated through.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender in batches) to puree the mixture until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Snow Crab Tacos with Mango Salsa
Experience the flavors of the tropics with this refreshing twist on traditional tacos. Succulent snow crab, crispy tortillas, and a tangy mango salsa come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound snow crab meat
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Mango Salsa (see below)
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine snow crab meat, lime juice, cilantro, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Assemble tacos by spooning the crab mixture onto a tortilla and topping with Mango Salsa.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Snow Crab and Asparagus Risotto
Elevate your dinner game with this creamy and flavorful Snow Crab and Asparagus Risotto, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. This recipe combines succulent snow crab, tender asparagus, and Arborio rice in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/2 pound snow crab meat, flaked
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. Add wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
4. Add 1/2 cup broth at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20 minutes of cooking, stir in asparagus and snow crab meat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until asparagus is tender.
6. Remove from heat; stir in butter and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese (if desired).
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Snow Crab Dip with Cream Cheese
A creamy and indulgent dip that combines the sweetness of snow crab with the tanginess of cream cheese, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup snow crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
3. Stir in parsley, snow crab meat, and lemon juice until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekin.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is warm and lightly golden brown.
7. Serve warm with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Snow Crab Sushi Rolls
Enjoy the sweet and savory flavor of snow crab meat wrapped in sushi rice and nori seaweed sheets. This simple recipe yields delicious and refreshing Snow Crab Sushi Rolls perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked snow crab meat
– 1/2 cup sushi rice (short-grain Japanese rice)
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions using 1/2 cup of water.
2. Cut the nori sheet into desired roll size (about 8 inches long).
3. Lay a nori sheet flat on a cutting board or other surface.
4. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place 1-2 tablespoons of snow crab meat in the center of the rice.
6. Roll the nori and rice tightly but gently using your fingers or a bamboo sushi mat.
7. Slice into desired size and serve with soy sauce and sesame oil for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (including preparation)
Snow Crab and Potato Gratin
A flavorful and comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening, this Snow Crab and Potato Gratin combines the sweetness of snow crab with the earthiness of potatoes, all wrapped in a crispy, golden-brown crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound snow crab meat
– 2 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine snow crab meat, butter, salt, and pepper; mix well.
3. In a separate pot, boil potatoes for 5 minutes or until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of potatoes.
5. Top with the crab mixture, followed by another layer of potatoes.
6. Sprinkle cheddar cheese and pour heavy cream over the top layer of potatoes.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Snow Crab Linguine in White Wine Sauce
Snow Crab Linguine in White Wine Sauce: A light and flavorful seafood dish that combines succulent snow crab with a rich white wine sauce, served over linguine pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound snow crab legs, thawed
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add white wine, heavy cream, and lemon juice to the skillet. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Add snow crab legs to the skillet and toss to coat with sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until crab is heated through.
5. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and snow crab mixture in a serving bowl. Toss to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Snow Crab and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Add a touch of elegance to your pasta dinner with this rich and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of snow crab with the earthiness of spinach. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1/2 cup snow crab meat, flaked
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix together crab meat, spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the crab-spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, followed by shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Snow Crab Louie Salad
This classic salad recipe combines the richness of snow crab with the creaminess of avocado and the tanginess of lemon, all on a bed of crisp greens. A simple yet elegant dish perfect for special occasions or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup snow crab meat
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, spinach)
– Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine snow crab meat, diced avocado, sliced eggs, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Gently fold until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Divide mixed greens onto individual plates or a large platter.
4. Top greens with the snow crab mixture.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Snow Crab and Cheese Omelette
Start your day with a flavorful and filling omelette packed with succulent snow crab meat and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup snow crab meat, flaked
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 tablespoon grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt.
2. Heat the butter in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the edges start to set.
4. Sprinkle the snow crab meat and cheddar cheese over half of the omelette.
5. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half of the omelette over the filling.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the eggs are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Snow Crab Stir-Fry with Vegetables
This flavorful and vibrant stir-fry combines succulent snow crab meat with a colorful medley of vegetables, all cooked to perfection in a savory sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound snow crab meat
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add bell pepper and carrot; cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add snow crab meat and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, breaking up any large chunks with a spatula.
5. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using); season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook for an additional minute, then serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Snow Crab and Scallop Ceviche
A refreshing and flavorful twist on traditional ceviche, this recipe combines the sweetness of snow crab with the tender flesh of scallops.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb snow crab legs, torn into small pieces
– 12 large scallops, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine snow crab and scallop pieces.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the seafood mixture, making sure all is coated.
3. Add chopped red onion and cilantro; toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (includes chilling time)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and tender taste of snow crab with these 20 mouthwatering recipes! From classic dishes like Garlic Butter Snow Crab Legs and Snow Crab Bisque, to innovative creations like Snow Crab Tacos with Mango Salsa and Snow Crab Sushi Rolls, there’s something for every seafood lover. Discover how to elevate snow crab into a satisfying main course or add it as a flavorful twist to pasta, rice, or even omelets. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds.
