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Fresh Dungeness Crab
Seafood
Nutri-ScoreA

Fresh Dungeness Crab

Metacarcinus magister

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Fresh Dungeness Crab provides 97 kcal, 20g of protein, 0g of carbohydrates, and 0g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'A', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Dungeness crab is a sweet, tender seafood known for its rich flavor and high protein content. It is a popular choice in coastal cuisines and is often enjoyed steamed or in crab dishes.

Also known as:
Dungeness crab (USA)Cancer magister (Scientific)
Scientific NameMetacarcinus magister
Region of OriginUnited States (West Coast)

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories97 kcal
Water
80%
Fiber0g
Total21.0g
Protein
20g(95%)
Fats
1g(5%)
Carbohydrates
0g(0%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin C2 mg (2%)
Vitamin B129.8 µg (408%)
Choline65 mg (12%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Selenium38 µg (69%)
Zinc2 mg (18%)
Copper0.2 mg (22%)
Phosphorus200 mg (29%)
Potassium250 mg (7%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Rich in high-quality protein, Dungeness crab supports muscle growth and repair, making it an excellent choice for athletes and active individuals.
Contains essential minerals like selenium and zinc, which are vital for immune function and overall health.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!No clinically significant precautions or contraindications have been documented for this food in standard dietary intake.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed steamed or boiled, served with melted butter or in salads. Ensure proper cooking to eliminate any foodborne pathogens.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose crabs that are alive and active, with a clean, ocean-like smell. The shells should be hard and intact.

How to Store

Store live crabs in a cool, moist environment, ideally in a container with ventilation. Cooked crabs should be refrigerated and consumed within 1-2 days.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
High in omega-3 fatty acids, which may support cardiovascular health.
Main Applications
Culinary uses in seafood dishes
Nutritional supplement for protein intake
Bioactive Compounds
Omega-3 fatty acids

Support heart health and reduce inflammation.

How to Consume
Fresh, Steamed, Boiled, Crab Cakes
Did you know?

"Dungeness crab is named after the Dungeness Spit in Washington State, where they are commonly found."

Myths vs Realities

MythCrab meat is always safe to eat raw.
RealityRaw crab can harbor harmful bacteria and parasites; it should be cooked to ensure safety.
MythAll crabs are the same in taste and texture.
RealityDifferent crab species have distinct flavors and textures; Dungeness crab is known for its sweet and tender meat.
MythDungeness crab is high in cholesterol and should be avoided.
RealityWhile it contains cholesterol, it is low in saturated fat and can be part of a balanced diet.

Healthy Recipes

Dungeness Crab Salad with Avocado and Citrus Vinaigrette

A refreshing salad featuring tender Dungeness crab meat, creamy avocado, and a zesty citrus vinaigrette, perfect for a light lunch.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup fresh Dungeness crab meat
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • 2 cups mixed greens
  • 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup cucumber, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon orange juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.
  2. 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Gently fold in the crab meat and diced avocado, then drizzle with the vinaigrette before serving.

Spicy Dungeness Crab and Quinoa Bowl

A nutritious bowl packed with protein-rich quinoa, fresh Dungeness crab, and a kick of spice from jalapeños and lime.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup fresh Dungeness crab meat
  • 1/2 jalapeño, diced
  • 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup corn
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine cooked quinoa, crab meat, jalapeño, red bell pepper, and corn.
  2. 2. Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt.
  3. 3. Garnish with cilantro and serve warm or chilled.

Dungeness Crab Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of Dungeness crab, brown rice, and herbs, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
  • 2 cups cooked brown rice
  • 1 cup fresh Dungeness crab meat
  • 1/2 cup onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, crab meat, onion, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the bell pepper halves with the mixture and place them in a baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes.

Dungeness Crab and Zucchini Noodles

A low-carb alternative to pasta, this dish features spiralized zucchini tossed with fresh Dungeness crab and a light garlic sauce.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
  • 1 cup fresh Dungeness crab meat
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add spiralized zucchini and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.
  3. 3. Stir in crab meat, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper, cooking until heated through.

Dungeness Crab Cakes with Avocado Salsa

Delicious crab cakes made with fresh Dungeness crab, served with a vibrant avocado salsa for a perfect appetizer or main dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup fresh Dungeness crab meat
  • 1/2 cup almond flour
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 cup tomato, diced
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine crab meat, almond flour, green onions, egg, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Form into patties.
  2. 2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook crab cakes until golden brown on both sides.
  3. 3. In another bowl, mix avocado, tomato, lime juice, salt, and pepper for the salsa. Serve together.

Dungeness Crab and Asparagus Stir-Fry

A quick and healthy stir-fry featuring fresh Dungeness crab and crisp asparagus, tossed in a light soy sauce and sesame oil.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup fresh Dungeness crab meat
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add asparagus and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
  3. 3. Stir in crab meat and soy sauce, cooking until heated through. Season with salt and pepper.

Dungeness Crab Tacos with Mango Salsa

Fresh and flavorful tacos filled with Dungeness crab and topped with a sweet and spicy mango salsa, perfect for a summer meal.

Ingredients
  • 8 small corn tortillas
  • 2 cups fresh Dungeness crab meat
  • 1 mango, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine mango, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and salt to make the salsa.
  2. 2. Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave.
  3. 3. Fill each tortilla with crab meat and top with mango salsa before serving.

Dungeness Crab and Spinach Omelette

A protein-packed omelette filled with fresh Dungeness crab and sautéed spinach, perfect for a healthy breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 cup fresh Dungeness crab meat
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté spinach until wilted.
  2. 2. In a bowl, whisk eggs with salt and pepper, then pour into the skillet over the spinach.
  3. 3. Once the eggs start to set, add crab meat, fold the omelette, and cook until fully set.

Dungeness Crab and Sweet Potato Hash

A hearty and nutritious hash featuring roasted sweet potatoes, fresh Dungeness crab, and colorful bell peppers, great for any meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
  • 1 cup fresh Dungeness crab meat
  • 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
  • 1/2 onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 20-25 minutes.
  2. 2. In a skillet, sauté onion and bell peppers until soft.
  3. 3. Add roasted sweet potatoes and crab meat to the skillet, mixing well before serving.

Dungeness Crab and Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry

A low-carb stir-fry featuring cauliflower rice, fresh Dungeness crab, and colorful vegetables, making it a healthy and satisfying meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups cauliflower rice
  • 1 cup fresh Dungeness crab meat
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat sesame oil and sauté mixed vegetables until tender.
  2. 2. Add cauliflower rice and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
  3. 3. Stir in crab meat, soy sauce, green onions, salt, and pepper, cooking until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How should I cook Dungeness crab?

Dungeness crab can be steamed, boiled, or baked. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

Is Dungeness crab healthy?

Yes, it is low in calories and high in protein, making it a healthy seafood choice.

Can I eat Dungeness crab if I'm allergic to shellfish?

No, individuals with shellfish allergies should avoid Dungeness crab.

What is the best way to store fresh Dungeness crab?

Keep it in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

How do I know if Dungeness crab is fresh?

Fresh Dungeness crab should have a clean, ocean-like smell and firm, intact shells.

What are the nutritional benefits of Dungeness crab?

It is rich in protein, low in fat, and contains essential vitamins and minerals.

Can I freeze Dungeness crab?

Yes, cooked Dungeness crab can be frozen for up to 3 months. Ensure it is properly sealed.

What dishes can I make with Dungeness crab?

You can make crab cakes, crab salads, or simply serve it with melted butter.