As the weather cools down, it’s time to warm up with some delicious and indulgent recipes perfect for special occasions. Snow crab, with its succulent flavor and tender texture, is a popular choice for holiday feasts and celebrations. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or simply treat yourself to a luxurious meal, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 scrumptious snow crab recipes.
From classic dishes like Garlic Butter Snow Crab Legs and Snow Crab Bisque with Sherry Cream, to innovative creations like Spicy Snow Crab Pasta with Lemon Cream Sauce and Snow Crab Roll with Avocado and Mango Salsa, we’ve curated a list that’s sure to satisfy any snow crab craving. So why not start planning your next special occasion menu today? Read on for our top 20 snow crab recipes and get ready to wow your taste buds!
Garlic Butter Snow Crab Legs
Savor the rich flavors of garlic butter on succulent snow crab legs with this simple and indulgent recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound snow crab legs, thawed
– 4 tablespoons (55g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
4. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
5. Place crab legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly onto the crab legs, making sure to coat them thoroughly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crab is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Snow Crab and Corn Chowder
This creamy chowder is a perfect blend of succulent snow crab, sweet corn, and savory flavors. It’s an easy-to-make comfort food that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb snow crab legs, thawed
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook until potatoes are slightly tender (about 5 minutes).
3. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, and corn kernels. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Add snow crab legs; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Spicy Snow Crab Pasta with Lemon Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this bold and zesty recipe featuring succulent snow crab, spicy kick, and a tangy lemon cream sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb snow crab legs, thawed and chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, snow crab, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until crab is heated through.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and lemon juice. Pour cream mixture over crab and pasta. Toss to combine.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and garnish with parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Snow Crab Roll with Avocado and Mango Salsa
Elevate your sushi game with this refreshing take on the classic snow crab roll, featuring creamy avocado and a sweet and tangy mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked snow crab meat
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– 1/4 cup mango salsa (see below for recipe)
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– Sushi vinegar
– Rice vinegar
Mango Salsa Recipe:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the nori sheet into desired shape for roll.
3. Lay a thin layer of sushi rice onto the nori, leaving space at the top.
4. Place sliced avocado and snow crab meat in the center of the rice.
5. Roll the nori using a bamboo sushi mat or your hands.
6. Slice into individual pieces and serve with mango salsa.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Crispy Snow Crab Cakes with Remoulade
This recipe combines the sweetness of snow crab meat with the crunch of crispy breading, served with a tangy remoulade sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump snow crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, cheese, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Divide mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired size. Shape each portion into a patty.
4. Dip each patty in melted butter, then coat with additional panko breadcrumbs to form a crust.
5. Place crab cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with remoulade sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Snow Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Snow Crab Stuffed Mushrooms: A Delicious Seafood Twist on a Classic Appetizer!
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup snow crab meat, drained and flaked
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine crab meat, butter, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika. Mix well.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and fill each cap with the crab mixture, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top of the crab filling (if using).
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Snow Crab and Asparagus Risotto
Snow Crab and Asparagus Risotto: A Delicate yet Savory Dish
This Snow Crab and Asparagus Risotto is a unique and flavorful twist on the classic Italian dish. The sweetness of the asparagus pairs perfectly with the succulent snow crab, all wrapped up in a creamy risotto.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb snow crab meat
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 3 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the broth to a simmer.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and snow crab meat; cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the seafood is pink and flaky.
4. Add the Arborio rice and stir to coat with oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the wine (if using), broth, and butter; stir to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, until creamy and tender, about 20-25 minutes.
7. Stir in the asparagus during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
8. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese (if desired).
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Snow Crab Bisque with Sherry Cream
This rich and creamy bisque is a perfect celebration of the snow crab’s succulent flavor, paired with the subtle sweetness of sherry cream. Serve as an appetizer or main course for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup sherry wine
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons snow crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (5 minutes).
3. Sprinkle flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add clam juice, stirring constantly.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat and let cook for 10 minutes.
6. Stir in heavy cream, sherry wine, paprika, salt, and pepper.
7. Add snow crab meat and stir gently to combine.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Snow Crab Nachos with Chipotle Lime Crema
Elevate your nacho game with this decadent recipe featuring succulent snow crab, crunchy tortilla chips, and a tangy chipotle lime crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound snow crab legs, steamed and broken into bite-sized pieces
– 1 bag of tortilla chips (your favorite brand)
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Melt 1/4 cup of the cheese on top of the chips in the oven for 2-3 minutes or until bubbly.
4. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped cilantro.
5. In a bowl, whisk together chipotle peppers, lime juice, and salt. Drizzle over the nachos.
6. Top with remaining cheese and snow crab pieces.
7. Return to oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Snow Crab and Shrimp Boil with Old Bay Seasoning
Get ready for a flavorful and succulent seafood boil that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the sweetness of snow crab and shrimp with the savory goodness of Old Bay seasoning, all in one pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound snow crab legs
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
– 2 lemons, quartered
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with the water and bring to a boil.
2. Add the Old Bay seasoning, lemons, and garlic; reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the snow crab legs and shrimp to the pot; continue to cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the seafood is pink and cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot with crusty bread and your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Snow Crab Fried Rice with Scallions
A flavorful and savory dish that combines the sweetness of snow crab with the crunch of scallions, all wrapped up in a bed of fluffy fried rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup snow crab meat (jumbo lump or flaked), drained
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 scallions, thinly sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the snow crab meat and stir-fry until heated through, about 2 minutes.
5. Push the crab mixture to one side of the pan.
6. Pour in a little more oil if needed, then add the cooked rice to the other side of the pan.
7. Stir-fry the rice for about 3-4 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
8. Combine the rice and crab mixture; stir-fry for an additional minute.
9. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
10. Garnish with scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Snow Crab Linguine in Garlic White Wine Sauce
This succulent Snow Crab Linguine dish combines the sweetness of snow crab meat with the richness of garlic and white wine, all wrapped up in a light and flavorful linguine pasta. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 1 lb snow crab legs, claw meat only
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add white wine to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until reduced by half.
4. Add snow crab meat to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic and wine sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Toss cooked linguine with crab mixture, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Snow Crab and Cheese Stuffed Jalapeños
Elevate your appetizer game with this unique fusion of snow crab, cheese, and spicy jalapeños. A perfect blend of creamy richness and bold heat will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 12 large jalapeño peppers
– 1/2 cup snow crab meat (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove seeds.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine snow crab meat, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and cilantro. Mix well.
4. Stuff each jalapeño pepper with the crab mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Snow Crab Louie Salad with Thousand Island Dressing
This classic salad recipe combines succulent snow crab meat with crisp greens, tangy avocado, and a rich Thousand Island dressing. Perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as an appetizer for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup cooked snow crab meat (jumbo lump)
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced avocado, and snow crab meat.
2. Arrange cherry tomatoes on top of the salad.
3. Drizzle Thousand Island dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a quick and easy assembly job.
Snow Crab Potstickers with Ginger Dipping Sauce
Discover the perfect blend of Asian flavors and comforting potsticker goodness with this simple recipe. With a delicate balance of snow crab, ginger, and soy sauce, these bite-sized treats are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup cooked and flaked snow crab
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the snow crab, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place a tablespoon of the crab mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the potsticker.
5. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Cook the potstickers according to package instructions or pan-fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
Ginger Dipping Sauce:
– Mix equal parts soy sauce and rice vinegar
– Add 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– Serve warm
Snow Crab Mac and Cheese with Truffle Oil
Snow Crab Mac and Cheese with Truffle Oil: A rich and creamy macaroni dish infused with the decadent flavors of snow crab and truffle oil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup snow crab meat, flaked
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Gradually add cheddar and Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth. Remove from heat.
5. Stir in truffle oil and snow crab meat.
6. Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Snow Crab Melt with Gruyère and Caramelized Onions
Elevate your comfort food game with this decadent Snow Crab Melt, featuring succulent crab, melted Gruyère cheese, and sweet caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup snow crab meat
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 2 slices of white bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Add butter and sauté onions until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Meanwhile, toast bread slices until lightly browned.
4. Assemble the melt by spreading crab meat on toasted bread, followed by a layer of caramelized onions and Gruyère cheese.
5. Place the other bread slice on top to create a sandwich.
6. Cook in the skillet for about 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Snow Crab and Avocado Tartare
This refreshing appetizer combines the sweetness of snow crab with the creaminess of avocado, all in a light and zesty tartare. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique addition to your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup snow crab meat
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine the snow crab meat and diced avocado.
2. Squeeze the lemon juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped fresh chives if desired.
6. Serve chilled, ideally at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is best served raw, so no cooking required.
Snow Crab Quiche with Herbed Crust
This quiche is a delightful twist on the classic recipe, featuring sweet and succulent snow crab meat mixed with creamy eggs and cheese. The herbed crust adds a fragrant and flaky texture that complements the seafood perfectly.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup snow crab meat, flaked
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together parsley, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Brush with herb mixture.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and snow crab meat. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Pour egg mixture over the herb crust, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until quiche is golden brown and set.
Snow Crab and Lobster Thermidor
Elevate your seafood game with this decadent Snow Crab and Lobster Thermidor recipe, perfect for special occasions or a luxurious treat. Rich flavors of butter, cream, and spices complement the succulent crab and lobster perfectly.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound snow crab legs
– 1/2 pound lobster meat (claw and body)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add snow crab legs and lobster meat; cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and heavy cream until smooth. Pour the mixture over the seafood mixture in the skillet.
5. Sprinkle paprika and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the thermidor is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 20 mouth-watering snow crab recipes perfect for special occasions. From classic dishes like Garlic Butter Snow Crab Legs and Snow Crab Bisque with Sherry Cream, to unique twists like Spicy Snow Crab Pasta with Lemon Cream Sauce and Snow Crab Melt with Gruyère and Caramelized Onions, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a decadent appetizer or a show-stopping main course, these recipes are sure to delight.