Lemon Herb Baked Whole Crab
Lemon Herb Baked Whole Crab
Embark on a culinary journey with this exquisite Lemon Herb Baked Whole Crab, a dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of premium crab meat with a symphony of fresh, aromatic flavors. Originating from coastal regions where fresh seafood is revered, this preparation method is inspired by Mediterranean principles, emphasizing simplicity and the quality of ingredients. Baking whole crabs with a vibrant medley of lemon zest, fragrant parsley and dill, pungent garlic, and rich olive oil and butter creates an incredibly tender and juicy result. The high heat of the oven seals in the moisture and infuses the crab with bright, herbaceous notes that dance on the palate, offering a delightful alternative to heavier seafood preparations often found in Crab & Lobster Dishes. This recipe transforms a simple crab into an elegant centerpiece, perfect for a special gathering or a luxurious weeknight indulgence. Get ready to impress your guests and awaken your taste buds with this fresh, flavorful, and surprisingly easy-to-make baked whole crab.
- Preparation time
- 20 min
- Cooking time
- 25 min
- Total time
- 45 min
- Servings
- 2
Instructions
Preparation
- 1Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- 2In a medium bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped parsley, chopped dill, minced garlic, olive oil, melted butter, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the herb-lemon butter.
- 3Carefully clean the whole crabs. If they are live, humanely dispatch them. Remove the top shell (carapace), gills, and any internal organs. Rinse thoroughly under cold water. Crack the claws and legs slightly to allow the flavors to penetrate.
Baking
- 1Place the cleaned and prepared crabs on the lined baking sheet. Generously spoon the herb-lemon butter mixture over and inside each crab, ensuring all parts are well coated.
- 2Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crab shells turn a vibrant red and the meat is opaque and cooked through. Cooking times may vary depending on the size of the crabs.
- 3Once cooked, remove the crabs from the oven. Let them rest for a few minutes to redistribute the juices.
Serving
- 1Serve the Lemon Herb Baked Whole Crab immediately on a large platter, garnished with fresh lemon wedges and extra fresh herbs, if desired.
Nutrition Information
- Calories
- 651 kcal
- Protein
- 55 g
- Fat
- 46 g
- Carbs
- 5 g
| Nutrient | Per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 651 kcal |
| Protein | 55 g |
| Fat | 46 g |
| Carbs | 5 g |
Tips
- For easier handling, you can ask your fishmonger to clean and crack the crabs for you before taking them home.
- To ensure even cooking, try to select crabs of roughly similar size when making this dish.