Easy Crab Legs

Happy Valentine's Day!  I stepped Junk Food Friday up a bit this week!  This is the weekend to put in a little effort and have something special for the occasion.  I encourage you to take advantage of the Seafood Special at Shop and Save this week! So many delicious choices.  I stocked up with great frozen cod fillets and took advantage of the lump crab meat for crab cakes in the coming days. My choice for this weekend's holiday, stunning Snow Crab Legs which are on sale.  So easy and really impressive for a special dinner.  Seriously do not shy away from trying these at home!  Plan about 3/4-1 lb. per person.  Crab legs are precooked and frozen when you bring them home.  Let them thaw in the fridge overnight.  The liquid that you steam them in needs to be full of flavor.  I suggest you crack the shells a bit to get the flavor throughout the meat.  This is not the appetizer or meal to serve and think you are going to be dainty and delicate during a romantic dinner.  This is a fun meal that takes awhile, perfect for conversation and family time!  I served with a very simple Spaghetti Aioli, and steamed broccoli.  Add some wine and a crusty fresh bread and a cold, Friday night cannot get much better!


Easy Crab Legs
printable recipe

1 1/2-2 lbs. Snow Crab Legs
2 bottles of a good lager
2 lemons, cut in half
1 head of garlic, cut in half
2 tsp. Old Bay Seasoning
1/2 stick of butter

In a large stock pot, add the garlic, lemons, beer and Old Bay seasoning.  Over medium high heat, bring to a boil.  Turn heat down slightly and let simmer for 5 minutes.

Using kitchen shears, cut the clusters apart.  Crack the larger limbs of the crab before adding to the pot.

Add the crab to the simmering liquid.  Cover with a lid.

Steam for 5-7 minutes.
Serve with lemon slices and clarified butter.*
*Clarified butter is butter that is heated and the milk solids are removed.  This process leaves a beautiful clear, rich butter for dipping seafood.