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Steamed Blue Crab
Seafood
Nutri-ScoreA

Steamed Blue Crab

Callinectes sapidus

Clinical Encyclopedia

The steamed blue crab is a popular seafood delicacy known for its sweet, tender meat and rich nutritional profile. It is an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients.

Also known as:
Blue Crab (USA)Chesapeake Crab (USA)
Scientific NameCallinectes sapidus
Region of OriginUnited States

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories97 kcal
Water
80%
Fiber0g
Total22.5g
Protein
20.5g(91%)
Fats
1.5g(7%)
Carbohydrates
0.5g(2%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin C7 mg (8%)
Vitamin B129.8 µg (409%)
Vitamin A100 IU (2%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.2 mg (12%)
Choline65 mg (12%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Selenium36 µg (65%)
Zinc2 mg (18%)
Copper0.2 mg (22%)
Iron0.5 mg (3%)
Phosphorus200 mg (20%)
Potassium250 mg (7%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Rich in high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
Contains omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health and reduce inflammation.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Shellfish allergies are common; individuals with such allergies should avoid consumption.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed steamed with seasoning or served with melted butter for dipping.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose crabs that are alive and active; they should feel heavy for their size and have a clean, fresh smell.

How to Store

Keep live crabs in a cool, moist environment and consume them within 24 hours for best quality.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Anti-inflammatoryRich in antioxidants
Main Applications
Culinary uses in seafood dishes
Nutritional supplementation
Bioactive Compounds
Astaxanthin

A powerful antioxidant that may help reduce oxidative stress.

How to Consume
Steamed, Boiled, Crab Cakes, Soups
Did you know?

"Blue crabs can regenerate lost limbs, making them a fascinating species in marine biology."

Myths vs Realities

MythMyth: All crabs are the same.
RealityReality: Different crab species have unique flavors, textures, and nutritional profiles.
MythMyth: Crab meat is unhealthy.
RealityReality: Crab meat is low in fat and high in protein, making it a healthy option.
MythMyth: You can't eat crab if you're pregnant.
RealityReality: Cooked crab can be safely consumed during pregnancy, but moderation is key.

Healthy Recipes

Citrus Herb Steamed Blue Crab

This refreshing dish features steamed blue crab infused with citrus and fresh herbs, perfect for a light and healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 whole steamed blue crabs
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix the lemon juice, lime juice, olive oil, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Place the steamed blue crabs in a large serving dish and drizzle the citrus herb mixture over them.
  3. 3. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side.

Spicy Garlic Steamed Blue Crab

A zesty and flavorful dish that combines steamed blue crab with a spicy garlic sauce for an exciting twist.

Ingredients
  • 2 whole steamed blue crabs
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon green onions, chopped
Instructions
  1. 1. In a small pan, heat the sesame oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add the red pepper flakes and soy sauce, stirring to combine.
  3. 3. Pour the spicy garlic sauce over the steamed blue crabs and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Mediterranean Blue Crab Salad

A light and nutritious salad featuring steamed blue crab, fresh vegetables, and a tangy vinaigrette.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup steamed blue crab meat
  • 2 cups mixed greens
  • 1/2 cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
  2. 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Gently fold in the steamed blue crab meat and drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad before serving.

Blue Crab Quinoa Bowl

A wholesome quinoa bowl topped with steamed blue crab, avocado, and a zesty lime dressing for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cup steamed blue crab meat
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, layer the cooked quinoa, steamed blue crab meat, avocado slices, and cherry tomatoes.
  2. 2. Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt and pepper.
  3. 3. Toss gently and serve immediately.

Blue Crab and Asparagus Stir-Fry

A quick and healthy stir-fry featuring steamed blue crab and fresh asparagus, tossed in a light soy sauce.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup steamed blue crab meat
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the garlic and ginger until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add the asparagus and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
  3. 3. Stir in the steamed blue crab meat and soy sauce, cooking for an additional 2 minutes before serving.

Blue Crab Stuffed Avocados

Creamy avocado halves filled with a flavorful blue crab mixture, making for a healthy and satisfying appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
  • 1 cup steamed blue crab meat
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix the steamed blue crab meat, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Scoop the crab mixture into the avocado halves.
  3. 3. Serve chilled as a refreshing appetizer.

Blue Crab and Vegetable Soup

A light and nourishing soup packed with vegetables and tender blue crab meat, perfect for a healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup steamed blue crab meat
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • 1 celery stalk, diced
  • 1/2 onion, chopped
  • 1 cup spinach
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil and add the carrot, celery, and onion.
  2. 2. Simmer for 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  3. 3. Stir in the steamed blue crab meat and spinach, cooking for an additional 2 minutes before serving.

Blue Crab Tacos with Mango Salsa

Delicious blue crab tacos topped with a fresh mango salsa for a vibrant and healthy twist on traditional tacos.

Ingredients
  • 2 whole steamed blue crabs, meat removed
  • 4 corn tortillas
  • 1 mango, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, diced
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Cilantro for garnish
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, lime juice, and salt to make the salsa.
  2. 2. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet over medium heat.
  3. 3. Fill each tortilla with blue crab meat and top with mango salsa and cilantro before serving.

Blue Crab and Spinach Frittata

A protein-packed frittata featuring steamed blue crab and fresh spinach, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 6 eggs
  • 1 cup steamed blue crab meat
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil and sauté the spinach until wilted.
  3. 3. Pour the egg mixture over the spinach and top with steamed blue crab meat, cooking until set, then broil for 2-3 minutes until golden.

Blue Crab and Cucumber Sushi Rolls

Healthy sushi rolls made with steamed blue crab and fresh cucumber, perfect for a light lunch or snack.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup sushi rice, cooked
  • 1 cup steamed blue crab meat
  • 1 cucumber, julienned
  • 4 sheets nori
  • Soy sauce for dipping
Instructions
  1. 1. Place a sheet of nori on a bamboo mat and spread a thin layer of sushi rice over it.
  2. 2. Add a line of steamed blue crab meat and cucumber in the center.
  3. 3. Roll tightly and slice into pieces, serving with soy sauce for dipping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many calories are in steamed blue crab?

There are approximately 97 calories in 100 grams of steamed blue crab.

Is blue crab healthy?

Yes, blue crab is low in fat and high in protein, making it a healthy seafood choice.

How should I store leftover blue crab?

Store leftover blue crab in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days.

Can I eat blue crab if I'm allergic to shellfish?

No, individuals with shellfish allergies should avoid blue crab.

What is the best way to cook blue crab?

Steaming is one of the best methods to cook blue crab, preserving its flavor and moisture.

How much protein is in blue crab?

Steamed blue crab contains about 20.5 grams of protein per 100 grams.

What nutrients are found in blue crab?

Blue crab is rich in vitamins B12, C, and minerals like selenium and zinc.

Is blue crab sustainable?

Sustainability varies by region; check local guidelines for sustainable seafood practices.