Grilled Dungeness Crab
Metacarcinus magisterClinical Encyclopedia
Grilled Dungeness crab is a delicacy known for its sweet, tender meat and is often enjoyed in coastal regions. It is rich in protein and essential nutrients, making it a healthy seafood choice.
Macronutrient Ratio
Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g
Micronutrient DV% Score
Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value
Complete Micronutrient Breakdown
Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.
Vitamins
Minerals
Health Benefits
Possible Risks & Side Effects
How to Prepare & Consume
Best enjoyed grilled with a light seasoning of lemon and herbs to enhance its natural flavors.
Smart Selection & Storage
Choose crabs that are lively and heavy for their size, indicating freshness.
Store live crabs in a cool, moist environment and cook them within a day or two.
Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds
Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.
A powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
"Dungeness crabs are named after the port of Dungeness in Washington State, where they were first commercially harvested."
Myths vs Realities
Healthy Recipes
Grilled Dungeness Crab with Lemon Herb Quinoa
This refreshing dish combines the sweet, tender meat of grilled Dungeness crab with zesty lemon herb quinoa, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal.
- 2 whole Dungeness crabs
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. 1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and clean the crabs thoroughly.
- 2. 2. In a saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until fluffy.
- 3. 3. Toss the cooked quinoa with lemon zest, juice, olive oil, parsley, salt, and pepper, then serve alongside the grilled crabs.
Spicy Grilled Dungeness Crab Tacos
These vibrant tacos feature grilled Dungeness crab tossed in a spicy lime sauce and served with fresh avocado and cabbage slaw for a healthy twist.
- 2 whole Dungeness crabs
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 2 cups cabbage, shredded
- 1 lime (juiced)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
- 1. 1. Grill the cleaned crabs for about 10-12 minutes, basting with lime juice and chili powder.
- 2. 2. Warm the corn tortillas on the grill for 1-2 minutes.
- 3. 3. Assemble the tacos by placing crab meat, avocado slices, and cabbage slaw on each tortilla, then drizzle with additional lime juice.
Grilled Dungeness Crab Salad with Avocado Vinaigrette
This light and nutritious salad features grilled Dungeness crab atop a bed of mixed greens, drizzled with a creamy avocado vinaigrette.
- 2 whole Dungeness crabs
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 avocado
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. 1. Grill the crabs until cooked through, about 10-12 minutes, then remove and let cool.
- 2. 2. In a blender, combine avocado, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper, and blend until smooth.
- 3. 3. Serve the crab over mixed greens and drizzle with avocado vinaigrette.
Garlic Butter Grilled Dungeness Crab with Asparagus
Indulge in this elegant dish featuring grilled Dungeness crab brushed with garlic herb butter, paired with tender grilled asparagus.
- 2 whole Dungeness crabs
- 1 bunch asparagus
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
- Salt to taste
- 1. 1. Melt butter in a small saucepan and mix in garlic, thyme, and salt.
- 2. 2. Brush the crabs with garlic butter and grill for 10-12 minutes, adding asparagus to the grill for the last 5 minutes.
- 3. 3. Serve the crabs with grilled asparagus drizzled with remaining garlic butter.
Mediterranean Grilled Dungeness Crab Bowls
These colorful bowls are filled with grilled Dungeness crab, roasted vegetables, and a tangy tahini dressing, perfect for a healthy meal prep.
- 2 whole Dungeness crabs
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1 lemon (juiced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. 1. Grill the crabs until done, about 10-12 minutes, and set aside.
- 2. 2. Toss zucchini, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast in the oven at 400°F for 20 minutes.
- 3. 3. Serve the crab over roasted vegetables and drizzle with tahini dressing made from tahini, lemon juice, salt, and water.
Coconut Curry Grilled Dungeness Crab
This exotic dish features grilled Dungeness crab coated in a creamy coconut curry sauce, served with steamed brown rice for a wholesome meal.
- 2 whole Dungeness crabs
- 1 can coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons red curry paste
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 cup brown rice
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- 1. 1. Grill the crabs for 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
- 2. 2. In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, red curry paste, and fish sauce, and simmer for 5 minutes.
- 3. 3. Serve the grilled crabs over brown rice, drizzled with coconut curry sauce and garnished with cilantro.
Grilled Dungeness Crab and Mango Salsa
This vibrant dish features grilled Dungeness crab paired with a refreshing mango salsa, perfect for a light summer meal.
- 2 whole Dungeness crabs
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1 jalapeño, minced
- 1 lime (juiced)
- Salt to taste
- 1. 1. Grill the crabs for 10-12 minutes until fully cooked.
- 2. 2. In a bowl, combine diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt to make the salsa.
- 3. 3. Serve the crab topped with mango salsa for a fresh and flavorful dish.
Grilled Dungeness Crab with Cauliflower Rice
This low-carb dish features grilled Dungeness crab served over a bed of flavorful cauliflower rice, making it a healthy alternative to traditional rice.
- 2 whole Dungeness crabs
- 1 head cauliflower, grated
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. 1. Grill the crabs for 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
- 2. 2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic, then add grated cauliflower, cooking until tender, about 5 minutes.
- 3. 3. Serve the grilled crab over the cauliflower rice, seasoned with salt and pepper.
Dungeness Crab Stuffed Bell Peppers
These colorful bell peppers are stuffed with a delicious mixture of grilled Dungeness crab, brown rice, and spices, making for a hearty and healthy meal.
- 2 whole Dungeness crabs
- 4 bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. 1. Grill the crabs until done, then remove the meat and mix with cooked brown rice, green onions, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- 2. 2. Preheat the oven to 375°F and hollow out the bell peppers.
- 3. 3. Stuff the peppers with the crab mixture and bake for 20-25 minutes until the peppers are tender.
Grilled Dungeness Crab with Avocado and Tomato Salad
This light and refreshing salad features grilled Dungeness crab served with ripe avocado and juicy tomatoes, drizzled with a balsamic reduction.
- 2 whole Dungeness crabs
- 2 avocados, diced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. 1. Grill the crabs for 10-12 minutes until fully cooked.
- 2. 2. In a small saucepan, reduce balsamic vinegar over medium heat until thickened.
- 3. 3. Serve the grilled crab on a plate with avocado and tomatoes, drizzled with balsamic reduction and seasoned with salt and pepper.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Dungeness crab healthy?
Yes, it is low in calories and high in protein, making it a healthy seafood option.
How do you cook Dungeness crab?
Dungeness crab can be boiled, steamed, or grilled, and is often served with butter or lemon.
What is the best way to eat Dungeness crab?
The best way is to crack the shell and enjoy the sweet meat with a squeeze of lemon.
Can you eat Dungeness crab shell?
No, the shell is not edible and should be discarded.
How much protein is in Dungeness crab?
A 100g serving contains about 20.6g of protein.
Is Dungeness crab sustainable?
Yes, when sourced from responsible fisheries, Dungeness crab is considered a sustainable seafood choice.
What are the nutritional benefits of Dungeness crab?
It is rich in vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B12, selenium, and zinc.
How should Dungeness crab be stored?
Fresh Dungeness crab should be kept in the refrigerator and consumed within 1-2 days.