Today we’ve rounded up 10 of the best sides to eat with your Alaskan King Crab Legs! Add one or two of these to your crab feast menu and you won’t be disappointed.
Potatoes
Whether roasted, baked, mashed, or fried, potatoes are a classic go-to side with crab legs. Add a little garlic and butter and you’ll have yourself the ultimate complementary flavors.
Corn on the Cob
And speaking of butter, we can’t forget the most commonly seen side with crab legs: corn on the cob. While we don’t know why this duo became the traditional go-to side to eat with crab, we certainly aren’t mad about it.
Coleslaw
Even though coleslaw is generally seen on the side of barbecue, we think this creamy cabbage dish provides the ideal crunch and flavor alongside succulent crab meat.
Cornbread
The salty sweetness of cornbread works well to compare and contrast with your crab meat. Plus, with all the protein of the crab legs, adding in some carbs is never a bad idea.
Steamed artichokes
Hear us out. This may sound like a weird suggestion, but steamed artichoke petals are best dipped in butter before scraping the meat off. If you’re already dipping your crab in melted butter, you may as well enjoy the extra vitamins and tart flavor of an artichoke alongside it.
Salad
Sometimes the simple option is the best one. A nice, crunchy green salad on the side can help fill in the gaps of your meal without taking too much away from the star of the show. Or, if you’re feeling creative, pair your crab legs with a Caesar salad for more garlicky goodness.
Roasted Vegetables
If you’re planning on eating a substantial amount of crab, you may want to keep the sides light with just some roasted vegetables. Drizzle a little olive oil over the broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts and put in the oven at 400°F until crispy.
Steak
We know, we know. Steak isn’t necessarily a side. But can we really have a list of the best foods to eat with crab legs and not mention surf and turf? No, we cannot, and our friends at Market Housecan help with that.
Macaroni and Cheese
While it’s generally lobster that gets combined with everyone’s favorite cheesy noodles, crab meat also goes exceptionally well with this savory side.
Melted Butter
Does melted butter count as a side? We’re going to say yes. Plus, you can even fancy up your butter, easily, with Mr. Stick's "Just Add Butter" Seasoning. It's made from all-natural ingredients that pair perfectly with our all-natural crab, for maximum flavor. Need some all-natural butter? We always recommend this one right here.
Luckily, when it comes to pairing your Alaskan king crab legs with a side, you really can’t go wrong. Just pair one delicious food with another — then enjoy!
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As a culinary expert and enthusiast with extensive knowledge in the realm of gastronomy, particularly seafood pairings and complementary flavors, I can confidently attest to the expertise required to curate an exceptional culinary experience. My understanding goes beyond the surface, delving into the intricate nuances of flavor profiles, textures, and cultural traditions surrounding the pairing of dishes.
Now, let's delve into the article discussing the best sides to accompany Alaskan King Crab Legs. The writer has showcased a commendable understanding of flavor dynamics and has chosen a variety of sides that complement the rich and succulent nature of crab meat. Here's a breakdown of the concepts used in the article:
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Potatoes: The versatility of potatoes, whether roasted, baked, mashed, or fried, is emphasized. The article suggests enhancing the experience with garlic and butter, showcasing an understanding of how these flavors complement crab legs.
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Corn on the Cob: Corn on the cob, accompanied by butter, is highlighted as a traditional and popular side with crab legs. The writer acknowledges its widespread association with crab feasts.
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Coleslaw: The inclusion of coleslaw is justified by its ability to provide crunch and flavor alongside crab meat. The writer recognizes its traditional association with barbecue but sees its potential as a suitable side for crab.
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Cornbread: The article recommends cornbread for its salty sweetness, which contrasts well with the savory crab meat. The concept of balancing flavors and textures is evident here.
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Steamed Artichokes: A unique suggestion, steamed artichokes are proposed for their compatibility with melted butter and their additional vitamins and tart flavor, showcasing a creative approach to pairing.
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Salad: A simple green salad is suggested to fill in the gaps of the meal without overshadowing the crab. The option to pair crab legs with a Caesar salad is also mentioned, emphasizing the importance of balance.
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Roasted Vegetables: As a lighter option, roasted vegetables are recommended to accompany a substantial amount of crab. The writer suggests specific vegetables and a cooking method, demonstrating a practical understanding of culinary techniques.
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Steak: The article acknowledges that steak isn't a traditional side but justifies its inclusion for the classic surf and turf combination. This reflects an appreciation for culinary traditions and the interplay of flavors.
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Macaroni and Cheese: While typically associated with lobster, the article suggests that crab meat pairs exceptionally well with macaroni and cheese, showcasing an understanding of flavor affinities.
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Melted Butter: Melted butter is humorously considered as a side, emphasizing its integral role in enhancing the flavor of crab legs. A specific seasoning recommendation is provided, showcasing attention to detail.
In conclusion, the article skillfully combines culinary expertise with a touch of creativity to present a well-rounded list of sides that enhance the experience of enjoying Alaskan King Crab Legs. The writer's understanding of flavor combinations, textures, and culinary traditions is evident throughout the piece.
