Perfect Pairings for Crab Legs Dinner

When it comes to enjoying a delicious crab leg dinner, finding the perfect side dishes to pair with these indulgent seafood delights is essential. From classic accompaniments like garlic butter to creative, flavorful options, there are plenty of choices to complement your crab legs. Whether you prefer rich and creamy scalloped potatoes, refreshing slaw, or savory cornbread, we have assembled a list of the best side dishes to elevate your crab leg feast. Get ready to enhance your dining experience with these mouthwatering crab leg pairings.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways:

Choose the right side dishes to enhance your crab leg dinner.
Garlic butter dipping sauce is a classic and flavorful option.

Scalloped potatoes provide a rich and decadent pairing for crab legs.
Coleslaw adds a refreshing and crunchy contrast to the crab meat.
Cornbread offers a salty sweetness that complements the tender crab meat.

Garlic Butter Dipping Sauce

One of the most iconic and beloved accompaniments to crab legs is a simple garlic butter dipping sauce. Melted butter infused with garlic brings out the rich sweetness of the crab meat and adds a burst of flavor. To make your own garlic butter dipping sauce, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour the mixture into a small bowl and serve alongside your crab legs for dipping.

Here’s a quick and easy recipe for homemade garlic butter dipping sauce:

Ingredients:

1/2 cup unsalted butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions:

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.

Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

Pour the garlic butter into a small bowl or ramekin.

Allow the sauce to cool slightly before serving with your crab legs.

Note: You can adjust the amount of garlic according to your preference. For a stronger garlic flavor, you can increase the number of cloves used.

Scalloped Potatoes

For a rich and decadent side dish to pair with crab legs, look no further than Gruyère scalloped potatoes. This creamy potato gratin is made with layers of thinly sliced potatoes, Gruyère cheese, heavy cream, and herbs. Baked to perfection, the potatoes become tender and the cheese forms a golden crust, creating a delicious combination of flavors and textures that complements the sweetness of the crab legs.

Scalloped potatoes are a classic dish in many cuisines and are loved for their creamy and cheesy goodness. The Gruyère cheese adds a unique nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the delicate flavors of the crab meat. The layers of thinly sliced potatoes, when baked with the cream and cheese, create a luscious texture that melts in your mouth.

Here’s a simple recipe for making your own Gruyère scalloped potatoes:

Easy Cheesy Gruyère Scalloped Potatoes

Ingredients:

2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

2 cups Gruyère cheese, grated

2 cups heavy cream

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream, minced garlic, and fresh thyme over medium heat until it simmers.

Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish, season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle half of the grated Gruyère cheese.

Pour half of the heated cream mixture over the potatoes.

Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, cheese, and cream mixture.

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.

Let the scalloped potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving.

These Gruyère scalloped potatoes are the perfect creamy and cheesy side dish to serve alongside your crab legs. They add a touch of elegance and richness to your meal, making it a truly indulgent dining experience.

Pros	Cons
Rich and creamy Delicious combination of flavors Pairs well with crab legs	High in calories and fat Takes time to prepare and bake

Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a classic side dish that provides a refreshing and crunchy contrast to the rich flavors of crab legs. For a unique twist, try a spicy pepper jelly coleslaw. This version combines fresh cabbage, bell peppers, cilantro, red onion, and a dressing made with lime juice, pepper jelly, and cayenne pepper. The heat and tanginess of the coleslaw perfectly balance the succulent crab meat.

Whether you’re enjoying your crab legs steamed, grilled, or baked, this tangy cabbage slaw recipe is a delightful accompaniment. The crispness of the cabbage, the subtle heat from the peppers, and the zesty lime dressing create a mouthwatering combination of flavors that enhance the seafood experience. The creamy texture of the crab legs pairs beautifully with the refreshing crunch of the coleslaw.

If you prefer a milder option, a creamy coleslaw with crab legs can be a perfect choice. The creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, vinegar, and a touch of sugar adds a rich and velvety element to the slaw. Tossed with fresh cabbage, carrots, and onions, this coleslaw is a crowd-pleaser that complements the delicate sweetness of crab legs.

Cornbread

The salty sweetness of cornbread is a delightful accompaniment to crab legs. The moist, crumbly texture and rich corn flavor of cornbread provide a perfect contrast to the tender crab meat. Whether you prefer a classic cornbread recipe or a cheesy variation, this side dish is sure to please.

For a sweet and savory twist on traditional cornbread, try making cheddar cornbread with crab legs. The sharpness of the cheddar cheese complements the sweetness of the cornbread, creating a flavorful combination that pairs perfectly with the delicate flavors of the crab legs.

Making cornbread from scratch is easier than you may think. Here’s a simple and easy cornbread recipe:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of cornmeal, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of melted butter, and 2 beaten eggs.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.

Add in any additional ingredients you like, such as cheddar cheese, corn kernels, or diced jalapeños.
Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove from the oven and let the cornbread cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy the warm and delicious cornbread alongside your crab legs for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Cornbread Recipe	Ingredients	Instructions
Classic Cornbread	1 cup cornmeal 1 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 cup sugar 1 tablespoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup milk 1/4 cup melted butter 2 eggs, beaten	Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and beaten eggs. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cornbread cool for a few minutes before serving.

Indulge in the irresistible combination of sweet and savory cornbread with your crab leg dinner.

Roasted Vegetables

To add a healthy and flavorful element to your crab leg dinner, consider serving roasted vegetables. Roasting vegetables such as roasted asparagus, crispy brussels sprouts, or grilled vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and creates a deliciously crispy texture. Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast them in the oven until tender and caramelized. The smoky flavors of the roasted vegetables complement the delicate sweetness of the crab legs.

Whether you choose the tender spears of roasted asparagus, the crunchy bite of crispy brussels sprouts, or the smoky flavors of grilled vegetables, these roasted creations add depth and vibrancy to your crab leg feast. The caramelization process intensifies the natural sugars in the vegetables, resulting in a harmonious balance of flavors with the succulent crab meat.

Roasted Asparagus Recipe

If you opt for roasted asparagus, follow this simple recipe:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Trim the woody ends of the asparagus spears.
Place the asparagus on a baking sheet.

Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus, tossing to coat evenly.
Season with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices.
Roast in the oven for 10-15 minutes until the asparagus is tender and lightly caramelized.

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the roasted asparagus before serving for an extra pop of brightness.

Roasted asparagus is not only a visually appealing side dish but also a nutritious one. Packed with vitamins and minerals, it adds a burst of vibrant green color to your plate while complementing the sweet and delicate flavors of crab legs.

Crispy Brussels Sprouts Recipe

If you prefer crispy brussels sprouts, try this simple recipe:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Trim the stems of the brussels sprouts and remove any discolored outer leaves.
Halve the brussels sprouts.

Toss the brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Spread them out onto a baking sheet in a single layer.
Roast for 25-30 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally, until the brussels sprouts are crispy and golden brown.

Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the crispy brussels sprouts before serving to brighten and enhance the flavors.

Crispy brussels sprouts provide a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the tenderness of crab legs. They add a delightful textural contrast and earthy flavor to your meal.

Grilled Vegetables

For those who prefer grilled vegetables, your options are vast and delightful. Toss some bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and red onions in olive oil, sprinkle them with salt and pepper, and grill them until beautifully charred and tender. The smoky and slightly caramelized flavors of grilled vegetables make them an excellent choice to pair with crab legs.

Roasted Asparagus	Crispy Brussels Sprouts	Grilled Vegetables
Tender and vibrant	Crunchy and earthy	Smoky and charred
Perfectly seasoned with salt, pepper, and lemon	Golden brown and lightly seasoned	Tossed in olive oil for a rich, smoky flavor
Easy to prepare and versatile	Offers a delightful textural contrast	A wide variety of vegetables to choose from

No matter which roasted vegetables you choose to serve with your crab legs, they will enhance the dining experience by adding vibrant flavors, appealing textures, and nutritious elements to your meal.

Lemon Rice Pilaf

A refreshing and tangy side dish that pairs well with crab legs is lemon rice pilaf. Made with fragrant jasmine rice, lemon juice, chicken broth, and fresh parsley, this dish adds a zesty element to your seafood feast. The bright flavors of the lemon perfectly complement the succulent crab meat.

When it comes to enhancing the flavors of crab legs, lemon rice pilaf is a delightful choice. The delicate aroma of jasmine rice combined with the vibrant citrus notes of lemon creates a delicious and aromatic base for your meal. The creamy texture of the rice pairs beautifully with the tender crab meat, allowing each bite to be a burst of flavor.

To make lemon rice pilaf, start by rinsing the jasmine rice thoroughly. Then, heat some olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat and sauté the rice until it turns slightly golden. Add in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once it boils, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the rice simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed. Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes. Finally, fluff the rice with a fork, squeeze fresh lemon juice over it, and sprinkle chopped parsley for added freshness.

Variations

Lemon rice pilaf can be customized to suit your taste preferences and dietary restrictions. Here are a few variations you can try:

Add a pinch of saffron threads to the rice while cooking to give it a vibrant yellow color and a delicate floral aroma.
For a creamy and indulgent twist, stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of coconut milk into the cooked rice.
To add a burst of sweetness, toss in some dried cranberries or golden raisins along with the lemon juice and parsley.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy family meal, lemon rice pilaf is an excellent choice as a side dish for crab legs. Its vibrant flavors and creamy texture elevate the taste of the crab, creating a truly memorable dining experience.

Mandarin Orange Salad

For a light and refreshing side dish to accompany your crab legs, try a Mandarin orange salad. This salad combines crisp greens, juicy mandarin oranges, sliced almonds, and a tangy dressing for a burst of citrusy flavors. The crunchy texture of the salad adds a refreshing contrast to the tender crab meat.

Enhance your crab leg dinner with the vibrant flavors of a citrus salad. The Mandarin orange salad is a perfect combination of tanginess and crunch that complements the succulent crab legs. The juicy mandarin oranges add a refreshing burst of citrus, while the sliced almonds provide a delightful crunch. Tossed with crisp greens and dressed in a tangy dressing, this salad is a refreshing addition to your meal.

Recipe:

1 bag of mixed salad greens
2 cups of mandarin orange segments
1/2 cup of sliced almonds

1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon of honey

Salt and pepper to taste

In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, mandarin orange segments, and sliced almonds.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
Serve immediately and enjoy alongside your crab legs for a refreshing and crunchy salad.

Cheddar Bay Biscuits

No crab leg feast is complete without the iconic cheddar bay biscuits. These warm, cheesy, and buttery biscuits are bursting with flavor and make the perfect accompaniment to enjoy alongside your crab legs. Serve them fresh from the oven for the ultimate indulgence.

Red Lobster’s Cheddar Bay Biscuits have become synonymous with seafood dining, and for good reason. These savory biscuits are a delicious blend of cheddar cheese, garlic, and Old Bay seasoning. The flaky, cheesy texture pairs perfectly with the sweet and succulent crab meat.

If you want to recreate the Red Lobster-style biscuits at home, you’re in luck. Many copycat recipes exist that capture the essence of these famous biscuits. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

“Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe”

Preheat your oven to 425°F.

In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder.

Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and gently mix until the cheese is evenly distributed.

In a separate bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup of milk and 1/2 cup of melted butter.

Pour the milk mixture into the flour mixture and stir until just combined.

Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.

While the biscuits are still warm, brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with a pinch of garlic powder and parsley.

These delightful biscuits can also be customized to suit your taste. Add chopped herbs, such as parsley or chives, for an extra burst of flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, like sharp cheddar or pepper jack, to add a unique twist to your biscuits.

With their irresistible combination of cheesiness, flakiness, and savory flavors, cheddar bay biscuits are the perfect addition to any seafood dinner. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply craving a taste of the coast, these biscuits are sure to impress.

Pros	Cons
– Cheesy and flavorful	– Can be high in calories
– Easy to make at home	– May not be suitable for those with dairy allergies
– Versatile recipe, can be adjusted to personal preferences	– Can be addictive, causing you to eat more than planned

Wine Pairings

To enhance the dining experience with your crab leg dinner, consider pairing it with a complementary wine. White wines such as Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and dry Riesling are excellent choices that bring out the flavors of the crab meat. Chardonnay, with its crisp and buttery profile, is particularly well-suited for seafood and can elevate the flavors of the crab legs.

Decadent Desserts

After enjoying a satisfying crab leg feast, indulge in a selection of sweet treats to complete your meal. These delectable desserts are the perfect way to satisfy your cravings and end your dining experience on a high note.

Lemon Cheesecake

For a burst of citrusy goodness, try a slice of refreshing lemon cheesecake. The tangy lemon flavor cuts through the richness of the crab legs, providing a delightful contrast. With a creamy texture and a buttery graham cracker crust, this velvety dessert is sure to please your taste buds.

Chocolate Mousse

If you’re a fan of chocolate, indulge in a velvety and decadent chocolate mousse. This airy dessert is made with rich, melted chocolate, whipped cream, and a hint of vanilla. With its smooth and luscious texture, chocolate mousse is the perfect indulgence to complement the sweet and tender crab legs.

Dessert	Description
Lemon Cheesecake	A refreshing and tangy dessert with a creamy texture and a buttery graham cracker crust.
Chocolate Mousse	A velvety and decadent dessert made with rich, melted chocolate and whipped cream.
Strawberry Shortcake	A classic dessert with layers of fresh strawberries, fluffy cake, and whipped cream.

Strawberry Shortcake

Indulge in a classic dessert featuring layers of fresh strawberries, fluffy cake, and billowing clouds of whipped cream. The light sweetness of the strawberry shortcake perfectly complements the richness of the crab legs, creating a delightful balance of flavors.

Choose a dessert that appeals to your taste preferences and enjoy a well-rounded and memorable meal. Whether you prefer the refreshing tang of lemon, the decadence of chocolate, or the classic combination of strawberries and cream, these sweet treats are the ideal ending to your crab leg dinner.

Conclusion

Pairing the right side dishes with your crab legs can elevate your dinner to a whole new level of culinary delight. When deciding what to serve with crab legs for dinner, you have a variety of delicious options for crab leg side dishes that will perfectly complement the sweet and succulent crab meat.

From creamy scalloped potatoes to refreshing coleslaw and flavorful cornbread, there are numerous perfect pairings for crab legs. The rich and decadent flavors of scalloped potatoes provide a delightful contrast to the tender crab meat, while the tanginess and crunch of coleslaw add a refreshing twist. And who can resist the salty sweetness of cornbread alongside the succulent crab legs?

Experimenting with different combinations of side dishes will allow you to create a well-rounded and memorable dining experience with your crab leg feast. Consider the flavors, textures, and contrasts that each side dish brings, and let your taste buds guide you in discovering your ultimate favorite pairings for crab legs.

So the next time you indulge in a crab leg dinner, don’t forget to pair it with the perfect side dishes. Whether you choose creamy scalloped potatoes, zesty coleslaw, or comforting cornbread, these delectable accompaniments will enhance the flavors of the crab legs and take your dining experience to the next level. Bon appétit!

FAQ

What are some delicious side dishes to serve with crab legs for dinner?

Some delicious side dishes to serve with crab legs for dinner include garlic butter dipping sauce, scalloped potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread, roasted vegetables, lemon rice pilaf, Mandarin orange salad, cheddar bay biscuits, and more.

How do I make a garlic butter dipping sauce for crab legs?

To make a garlic butter dipping sauce for crab legs, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour the mixture into a small bowl and serve alongside your crab legs for dipping.

What are some recipes for scalloped potatoes to pair with crab legs?

One delicious recipe for scalloped potatoes to pair with crab legs is Gruyère scalloped potatoes. These creamy potato gratin is made with layers of thinly sliced potatoes, Gruyère cheese, heavy cream, and herbs.

How can I make a unique coleslaw to accompany my crab legs?

To make a unique coleslaw to accompany your crab legs, try a spicy pepper jelly coleslaw. This version combines fresh cabbage, bell peppers, cilantro, red onion, and a dressing made with lime juice, pepper jelly, and cayenne pepper.

What is a good side dish to serve with crab legs?

Cornbread is a good side dish to serve with crab legs. The moist, crumbly texture and rich corn flavor of cornbread provide a perfect contrast to the tender crab meat.

How can I prepare roasted vegetables to go with my crab legs?

To prepare roasted vegetables to go with your crab legs, drizzle vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast them in the oven until tender and caramelized.

What is a flavorful rice dish that pairs well with crab legs?

Lemon rice pilaf is a flavorful rice dish that pairs well with crab legs. Made with fragrant jasmine rice, lemon juice, chicken broth, and fresh parsley, this dish adds a zesty element to your seafood feast.

What is a refreshing salad to serve alongside crab legs?

Mandarin orange salad is a refreshing salad to serve alongside crab legs. This salad combines crisp greens, juicy mandarin oranges, sliced almonds, and a tangy dressing for a burst of citrusy flavors.

How can I make cheddar bay biscuits to enjoy with crab legs?

To make cheddar bay biscuits to enjoy with crab legs, follow a recipe similar to the Red Lobster-style biscuits. These warm, cheesy, and buttery biscuits are bursting with flavor and make the perfect accompaniment to crab legs.

What are some recommended wine pairings for crab legs?

Some recommended wine pairings for crab legs include Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and dry Riesling. Chardonnay, with its crisp and buttery profile, is particularly well-suited for seafood and can elevate the flavors of the crab legs.

What are some decadent desserts to complete a crab leg dinner?

Some decadent desserts to complete a crab leg dinner include lemon cheesecake, chocolate mousse, and strawberry shortcake. These sweet treats provide a delightful ending to your dining experience.