Are you a busy professional looking for a quick and delicious way to spice up your weeknight meals? Do you love the taste of fresh crab, but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouth-watering simple crab meat recipes that are perfect for busy nights. From salads to pasta dishes, and even snacks and desserts, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, these easy-to-make recipes will have you feasting like royalty in no time. So, let’s dive into the world of crab meat and discover new flavors and ideas to add to your culinary repertoire.
Crab Meat and Avocado Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the sweetness of avocado with the savory taste of crab meat, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine diced avocado and crab meat.
2. Add thinly sliced red onion and chopped cilantro on top of the avocado-crab mixture.
3. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the salad, followed by a drizzle of olive oil.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Easy Crab Meat Pasta with Garlic Butter
Easy Crab Meat Pasta with Garlic Butter: A flavorful and satisfying meal that combines succulent crab meat with al dente pasta, savory garlic butter, and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Add crab meat and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the crab is heated through.
4. Add lemon juice to the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with garlic butter sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add some reserved pasta water.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Crab Meat Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this easy-to-make recipe featuring succulent crab meat stuffed inside earthy mushroom caps.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, butter, breadcrumbs, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and fill each cap with the crab meat mixture, mounding slightly in the center.
4. 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.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab Meat and Corn Chowder
A creamy and flavorful soup that combines the sweetness of corn with the richness of crab meat, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the corn kernels and cook for 3-4 minutes or until slightly tender.
3. Stir in the crab meat, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Crab Meat Fried Rice
A flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the richness of crab meat with the comfort of fried rice. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup diced green onions
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crab meat (jumbo lump or flaked)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs, beaten (for scrambling)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Push the onion mixture to one side. Crack in the eggs and scramble until cooked through.
5. Mix the eggs with the onion mixture.
6. Add the cooked rice, crab meat, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry everything together until combined and heated through.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab Meat and Cream Cheese Dip
This creamy dip is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, with the freshness of crab meat adding a delightful twist to your snack time. Serve it with crackers or veggies for a satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese until smooth.
3. Add crab meat, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning. Mix well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekin.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly set.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Crab Meat Omelette
Start your day with a flavorful twist on the classic omelette by adding succulent crab meat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup crab meat (jumbo lump or flaked)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt until well combined.
2. Heat the butter in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and let it cook for about 30 seconds.
4. Sprinkle the crab meat evenly over half of the omelette.
5. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half of the omelette over the crab meat.
6. Cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, until the eggs are almost set and the crab is heated through.
7. Slide the omelette out of the skillet onto a plate and garnish with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 minutes
Crab Meat and Mango Ceviche
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory with this refreshing crab meat and mango ceviche recipe. The combination of succulent crab, juicy mango, and zesty lime juice will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine crab meat, mango, lime juice, red onion, jalapeño, and salt.
2. Stir gently to combine, making sure not to break up the lumps of crab meat.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is ready in no time.
Easy Crab Meat Tacos
A twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines succulent crab meat with fresh flavors and spices. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced yellow onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, and paprika; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the crab meat, bell pepper, onion, and jalapeño; cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning crab mixture onto tortillas and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crab Meat and Spinach Quesadillas
Crab Meat and Spinach Quesadillas Recipe
A twist on the classic quesadilla, this recipe combines succulent crab meat with wilted spinach for a deliciously unique flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 2 large tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine crab meat, spinach, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, olive oil, onion, and garlic. Mix well.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the crab mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Simple Crab Meat Sushi Rolls
Savor the taste of the ocean with this effortless recipe for crab meat sushi rolls. This dish is perfect for a quick and delicious meal or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked crab meat (jumbo lump or claw)
– 1/4 cup sushi rice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– Sesame seeds and soy sauce for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, mix together crab meat, sesame oil, and a pinch of salt.
3. Lay the nori sheet flat on a cutting board. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place the crab meat mixture in the middle of the rice.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or a clean tea towel, applying gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
6. Slice into bite-sized pieces and serve with soy sauce and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab Meat and Asparagus Stir-Fry
A refreshing and flavorful stir-fry that combines the sweetness of asparagus with the richness of crab meat, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the asparagus and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Stir in the crab meat and soy sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the crab is heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick Crab Meat Scrambled Eggs
Quick Crab Meat Scrambled Eggs Recipe
This recipe combines the rich flavor of crab meat with fluffy scrambled eggs, perfect for a quick and delicious breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup lump crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat work well)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork.
2. Heat the butter in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the crab meat to the skillet and stir to break it up. Cook for about 2 minutes, until the crab is lightly browned.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the crab meat and cook until the eggs start to set, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Use a spatula to gently scramble the eggs and distribute the crab meat evenly.
6. Continue cooking for another minute or until the eggs are fully cooked.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Crab Meat and Cucumber Canapés
Elevate your party game with these refreshing crab meat and cucumber canapés, perfect for a summer gathering or cocktail hour. A delicate balance of flavors and textures in every bite.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup fresh lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced cucumber
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, red bell pepper, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir in lemon juice and mayonnaise until well combined.
3. Arrange cucumber slices on a serving platter or individual plates.
4. Spoon the crab mixture onto the cucumber slices.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (preparation time only)
Simple Crab Meat Bisque
A rich and flavorful bisque that combines the sweetness of crab meat with the savory flavors of onions, garlic, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup fish stock (or chicken stock)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in paprika and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add crab meat, flour, fish stock, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let bisque cook for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crab Meat and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Savor the flavors of the ocean and a touch of creaminess with this delightful recipe featuring crab meat, cheese, and bell peppers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix crab meat, cheese, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the crab mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Easy Crab Meat Risotto
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the richness of crab meat with the comfort of risotto.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add white wine (if using); cook until absorbed.
4. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. Stir in crab meat, butter, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crab Meat and Tomato Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing twist on classic bruschetta, featuring succulent crab meat and fresh tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, cut into 1/2-inch slices
– 8 ounces jumbo lump crab meat, drained and flaked
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Arrange toasted baguette slices on a serving platter or individual plates. Spoon the crab and tomato mixture over the bread.
5. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the top.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Crab Meat Fritters
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick snack or as an appetizer for your next gathering. With a delicate balance of sweet and savory flavors, you’ll be hooked on these crab meat fritters!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup fresh lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, flour, panko breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to break up the lumps of crab meat.
2. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
3. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the crab mixture into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
4. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove fritters from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: Approximately 6-8 minutes total
Crab Meat and Lemon Butter Linguine
This light and flavorful pasta dish combines succulent crab meat with the brightness of lemon butter sauce, all on a bed of al dente linguine. A perfect summer evening meal that’s quick to prepare and impressive to serve.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in crab meat, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Combine cooked linguine, crab mixture, and reserved pasta water. Toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 simple and delicious crab meat recipes! From salads and pasta dishes to tacos and sushi, there’s something for everyone. Try making a Crab Meat and Avocado Salad or an Easy Crab Meat Pasta with Garlic Butter. For a quick and easy meal, whip up some Simple Crab Meat Stuffed Mushrooms or Quick Crab Meat Fried Rice. And don’t forget about the sweet treats – like Crab Meat and Mango Ceviche or Simple Crab Meat Fritters. With these recipes, you’ll never be short on ideas for a tasty dinner.