Savor Oregon’s Most Iconic Seafood: Dungeness Crab Recipe You Need to Try

Oregon’s Dungeness Crab: A Coastal Delight You Can’t Miss

When you think of Oregon’s culinary offerings, the mind drifts to the cold waters off its stunning coastline. One dish reigns supreme among these waters: Dungeness crab. This sweet, succulent seafood is celebrated for its tender meat and has been a staple in Oregon’s coastal cuisine for over a century. Harvested from the pristine waters off the Pacific Northwest, Dungeness crab is often served steamed, in crab cakes, or simply with melted butter. Whether you're enjoying it at a quaint restaurant in Astoria or cooking it at home, Dungeness crab is an essential part of the Oregon food experience.

Photo byNick Davies

For those of you eager to recreate this Oregonian classic, I've crafted an easy-to-follow recipe that will bring the essence of the Oregon coast right into your kitchen.

Dungeness Crab Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 whole Dungeness crabs, cleaned and pre-cooked
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A loaf of crusty bread (for dipping!)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Place the pre-cooked crabs on a baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Generously brush the butter mixture over the crab, ensuring it gets into all the cracks and crevices of the shell.
5. Bake the crabs in the oven for about 10-12 minutes, until heated through and the butter is bubbling.
6. Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
7. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and a side of crusty bread to dip in the extra garlic butter.

Why Oregon’s Dungeness Crab Stands Out

The cool, clean waters of the Pacific make Oregon’s Dungeness crab among the best in the world. Their meat is prized for its sweetness and delicate texture, which sets it apart from other crab varieties. Pair this delicious seafood with a glass of local Oregon wine, such as Pinot Noir from the Willamette Valley, and you’ve got a perfect meal that highlights the region’s culinary strengths​(La Vida Nomad)​(Discover Backyard Magic).

Did you try out this recipe? Let me know how it turned out in the comments! If you enjoyed it, follow me for more regional recipes inspired by the great state of Oregon.