Garlic Butter Crab Legs

Presented by Daniella Edina

Ingredients:

2 lbs (900g) crab legs (King crab, Snow crab, or Dungeness)

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

1 tsp lemon juice

½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)

½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Salt and black pepper to taste

Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crab Legs:

If using frozen crab legs, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water for about 15 minutes.

Crack the shells slightly with a seafood cracker or kitchen scissors to allow the garlic butter to soak in.

2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:

In a saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter.

Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (but not browned).

Stir in parsley, lemon juice, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and remove from heat.

3. Cook the Crab Legs:

Steaming Method: Steam the crab legs in a large pot with a steaming rack for about 5–7 minutes until heated through.

Baking Method: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), place the crab legs on a baking sheet, brush with half of the garlic butter sauce, and bake for 10–12 minutes.

Grilling Method: Grill over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally, while brushing with garlic butter.

4. Serve:

Transfer the crab legs to a plate, drizzle with the remaining garlic butter sauce, and garnish with extra parsley.

Serve hot with lemon wedges for squeezing over the crab meat.

Tips:

Pair with crusty bread or garlic rice to soak up the extra sauce.

Add a side of melted butter with extra lemon for dipping.