Crab legs are a delicacy that many people enjoy, but what food goes best with them and how do you prepare them? From serving cold with lemon wedges to pairing it with roasted vegetables, there are many ways to make crab legs the star of your meal. Learn how to pick out fresh crabs and get tips on preparing the perfect dish!
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What Food Groups Compliment Crab Legs?
Crab legs can be an incredibly delicious and indulgent treat. But, what food groups pair best with this seafood delicacy? Here are some top suggestions for a perfect pairing!
Vegetables: A side of roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli or grilled zucchini will provide the perfect complement to your crab legs.
Fruits: Fresh fruit salad tossed in citrus dressing is an ideal way to add sweetness and balance out the rich flavors of the crab.
Starches: Rice pilaf or mashed potatoes also make excellent accompaniments. You could even try some crusty sourdough bread or buttery rolls to mop up all that succulent sauce.
With these simple yet tasty options, you’ll have a truly delectable meal sure to impress any dinner guest. Bon appétit!
Examples of Food Pairings For Crab Legs
1. Asparagus: Steam or stir-fry with butter, garlic, and a splash of white wine.
2. Corn on the Cob: Boil in salted water for 5 minutes, then serve with melted butter and lemon juice.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Toss cubed potatoes in olive oil, salt and pepper before roasting at 400F for 30 minutes.
4. Risotto: Sauté onions and garlic until soft; add Arborio rice and cook until al dente; finish with Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped herbs (parsley or basil).
5. Broccoli Slaw: Shred fresh broccoli stalks into thin strips; dress lightly with mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, celery seed, onion powder & black pepper to taste; serve chilled as a side dish or topping on crab legs.
What Wine Goes Well With Crab Legs?
If you’re looking for the perfect wine pairings to accompany your delectable crab legs, there are a few options that can bring out the best of this seafood delicacy. A light and crisp white such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio will help to enhance the natural sweetness of fresh crab meat. Alternatively, a classic Chardonnay offers an oaky smoothness that pairs nicely with buttery sauces often served alongside crab dishes. Rosé is another great option – its soft fruitiness brings out the subtle saltiness of cooked crabs while providing a refreshingly dry finish.
What Herbs and Spices Should You Use With Crab Legs?
Crab legs are the perfect canvas for a variety of flavors!
Cilantro: Cilantro can add a zesty, herby flavor to crab legs, making them taste fresh and unique.
Old Bay Seasoning: Old Bay seasoning is a staple in many seafood dishes. Mix some into your crab leg dish for an extra kick of flavor!
Paprika: Paprika adds smokiness and color to any dish. Sprinkle it onto your crab legs before cooking or afterwards as a garnish.
Should You Add More Crab Legs To Your Diet?
Adding more crab legs to your diet can be beneficial for a number of reasons. For starters, crab is an excellent source of protein and essential fatty acids; it provides all nine essential amino acids that the body requires for optimal health. The meat from these crustaceans also contains low levels of saturated fat, making them an ideal choice for those trying to manage their cholesterol levels. Additionally, they are packed with vitamins and minerals like selenium, zinc, phosphorus and vitamin B12 – which may help fight inflammation and improve heart health.
Nutritional Benefits:
High in lean protein
Contains healthy fats
Rich in vitamins & minerals
Additionally, adding more crabs legs to your diet can offer other potential benefits as well. They contain antioxidants that may help protect against cell damage caused by free radicals; zinc found in crab helps boost immunity; plus the high omega-3 content supports brain function and mental clarity. So if you’re looking for a delicious way to get some extra nutrition into your meal plan – why not give crab legs a try?
So What Goes Well With Crab Legs?
As it turns out, there’s a wide variety of sides and accompaniments to pair with crab legs that will take your meal from ordinary to extraordinary. From simple and classic mashed potatoes, vegetables, or salads to more complex dishes such as risotto or garlic butter sauce for dipping, the possibilities are endless. As long as you keep in mind the rich flavor of the crab meat itself and how you want it to be complemented by another dish, you’ll never run out of delicious options. With so many different ways to enjoy one of America’s favorite seafoods, who wouldn’t love indulging in this delicacy?
