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Steamed Dungeness Crab
Seafood
Nutri-ScoreA

Steamed Dungeness Crab

Metacarcinus magister

Clinical Encyclopedia

Dungeness crab is a popular seafood known for its sweet, tender meat and is often enjoyed steamed. It is rich in protein and low in calories, making it a nutritious choice for seafood lovers.

Also known as:
Dungeness crab (USA)Cancer magister (Scientific)
Scientific NameMetacarcinus magister
Region of OriginUnited States

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories97 kcal
Water
80%
Fiber0g
Total21.5g
Protein
20g(93%)
Fats
1.5g(7%)
Carbohydrates
0g(0%)

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 C2 mg (2%)
Vitamin B129.8 µg (408%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)0.5 mg (3%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin A: 0 µgVitamin E: 0.2 mgVitamin D: 0 µgVitamin K: 0 µgVitamin b1 (thiamine): 0 mgVitamin b2 (riboflavin): 0 mgVitamin b5 (pantothenic acid): 0 mgVitamin b6 (pyridoxine): 0 mgFolate: 0 µgCholine: 0 mg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium50 mg (4%)
Iron0.5 mg (3%)
Magnesium30 mg (8%)
Phosphorus200 mg (16%)
Potassium250 mg (7%)
Zinc3 mg (27%)
Copper0.2 mg (22%)
Manganese0.1 mg (5%)
Selenium38 µg (69%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

High in protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth, making it an excellent choice for athletes and active individuals.
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and may help reduce inflammation.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!No clinically significant precautions or contraindications have been documented for this food in standard dietary intake.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed steamed with a side of melted butter or lemon for added flavor. Ensure to cook thoroughly to avoid any foodborne illnesses.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose crabs that are alive and active, with a hard shell and a clean ocean smell. Avoid crabs with a strong fishy odor.

How to Store

Store live crabs in a cool, moist environment and cook them within 24 hours. Cooked crab can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

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

Medicinal Properties
Anti-inflammatoryRich in antioxidants
Main Applications
Culinary use in seafood dishes
Nutritional supplement for protein intake
Bioactive Compounds
Astaxanthin

A powerful antioxidant that may help protect cells from damage.

How to Consume
SteamedCrab cakesSoups
Did you know?

"Dungeness crab is named after the Dungeness Spit in Washington State, where they are commonly found."

Myths vs Realities

MythCrab meat is high in cholesterol.
RealityWhile crab meat contains cholesterol, it is low in saturated fat and can be part of a heart-healthy diet.
MythAll crabs are the same.
RealityDifferent crab species have varying flavors, textures, and nutritional profiles.
MythYou should avoid eating crab during pregnancy.
RealityCrab can be safely consumed during pregnancy when cooked properly, as it is a good source of protein.

Healthy Recipes

Citrus Herb Steamed Dungeness Crab

A refreshing dish featuring steamed Dungeness crab infused with citrus and fresh herbs, perfect for a light meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 whole Dungeness crabs
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • 1 lime, sliced
  • 1 orange, sliced
  • 1 bunch fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil. Add salt and the citrus slices.
  2. 2. Place the crabs in a steamer basket above the boiling water, cover, and steam for 15-20 minutes.
  3. 3. Remove the crabs, drizzle with olive oil, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Spicy Garlic Dungeness Crab Stir-Fry

A vibrant stir-fry that combines tender crab meat with a spicy garlic sauce and colorful vegetables for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 pound Dungeness crab meat
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup snap peas
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add bell pepper and snap peas, cooking for 3-4 minutes until tender.
  3. 3. Stir in crab meat, soy sauce, and chili flakes, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes before serving.

Dungeness Crab Salad with Avocado and Mango

A light and nutritious salad featuring steamed crab, creamy avocado, and sweet mango for a delightful flavor combination.

Ingredients
  • 1 pound Dungeness crab meat
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • 1 ripe mango, diced
  • 2 cups mixed greens
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, avocado, mango, and crab meat.
  2. 2. Drizzle lime juice over the salad and season with salt and pepper.
  3. 3. Toss gently to combine and serve immediately.

Dungeness Crab Quinoa Bowl

A wholesome quinoa bowl topped with steamed crab, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing for a filling meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 pound Dungeness crab meat
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and crab meat.
  2. 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Drizzle the dressing over the quinoa bowl and toss gently before serving.

Dungeness Crab and Asparagus Frittata

A protein-packed frittata featuring tender crab and asparagus, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 6 eggs
  • 1 cup steamed Dungeness crab meat
  • 1 cup asparagus, chopped
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil, add asparagus, and sauté for 3-4 minutes. Pour in the egg mixture and crab meat, then bake for 20-25 minutes until set.

Dungeness Crab Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw

Delicious tacos filled with steamed crab and a refreshing cilantro lime slaw for a healthy twist on a classic dish.

Ingredients
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 1 pound Dungeness crab meat
  • 2 cups cabbage, shredded
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine shredded cabbage, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper to make the slaw.
  2. 2. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet until pliable.
  3. 3. Fill each tortilla with crab meat and top with cilantro lime slaw before serving.

Dungeness Crab Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of crab, brown rice, and spices for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
  • 1 pound Dungeness crab meat
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix crab meat, cooked brown rice, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff each bell pepper half with the crab mixture, place in a baking dish, and bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender.

Dungeness Crab and Spinach Pasta

A light pasta dish featuring whole grain spaghetti, fresh spinach, and succulent crab meat, tossed in a garlic olive oil sauce.

Ingredients
  • 8 ounces whole grain spaghetti
  • 1 pound Dungeness crab meat
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. 2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
  3. 3. Toss in crab meat and cooked spaghetti, season with salt and pepper, and serve warm.

Dungeness Crab Ceviche

A refreshing ceviche made with fresh crab, citrus juices, and a medley of vegetables, perfect as an appetizer or light dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 pound Dungeness crab meat
  • 1/2 cup lime juice
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup red onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine crab meat, lime juice, tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Mix well and let marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve chilled with tortilla chips or on its own.

Dungeness Crab and Sweet Potato Cakes

Crispy sweet potato cakes filled with tender crab meat, served with a tangy yogurt sauce for a healthy appetizer or snack.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
  • 1 pound Dungeness crab meat
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix mashed sweet potatoes, crab meat, breadcrumbs, egg, paprika, salt, and pepper until combined.
  2. 2. Form mixture into patties and pan-fry in a skillet until golden brown on both sides.
  3. 3. Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt on the side.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many calories are in steamed Dungeness crab?

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

Is Dungeness crab healthy?

Yes, it is high in protein and low in calories, making it a healthy seafood option.

How should I cook Dungeness crab?

Dungeness crab is best steamed or boiled. Ensure it is cooked thoroughly before consumption.

Can I eat Dungeness crab if I have a shellfish allergy?

No, individuals with shellfish allergies should avoid Dungeness crab.

What is the best way to eat Dungeness crab?

It is often enjoyed steamed with melted butter or lemon juice.

How do I know if Dungeness crab is fresh?

Fresh Dungeness crab should have a clean, ocean-like smell and the shell should be hard.

What nutrients are in Dungeness crab?

Dungeness crab is rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins B12 and C, and several essential minerals.

How long can I store cooked Dungeness crab?

Cooked Dungeness crab can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.