Best Way To Cook Crab Legs On The Grill
Nothing screams summer more than a backyard barbecue. And what better way to impress your guests than by serving up some succulent crab legs hot off the grill? Not only are they delicious, but they are also incredibly easy to make. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a newbie to grilling, this article will teach you the best way to cook crab legs on the grill.
Why Grill Crab Legs?
Crab legs are a delicacy that everyone enjoys. Whether you're a seafood lover, a fan of barbecuing, or simply curious to try something new, grilling crab legs is a must-try. Grilling crab legs can be a fun, delicious, and healthy way to enjoy them without sacrificing any taste. Grilling will also give the crab legs a smoky flavor that you can't get from other cooking methods.
Choose Your Crab Legs
Before you start grilling crab legs, you need to choose the right type. While there are dozens of crab species out there, you want to stick with the most popular and widely available varieties that are perfect for grilling. King crab legs are the largest and the most flavorful, while snow crab legs are smaller but still very tasty. Both of these types of crab legs are easily found at most seafood markets or grocery stores.
Prepare Your Crab Legs
Before you start grilling, you need to prep your crab legs. First, rinse them under cold running water to remove any dirt, debris, or shell fragments. Pat them dry with paper towels. Next, use a pair of scissors or a kitchen knife to cut the crab legs open lengthwise. This will allow the heat to penetrate the meat properly, ensuring that it cooks evenly.
Seasoning Your Crab Legs
The best way to cook crab legs on the grill is to keep it simple. A little bit of butter, a squeeze of lemon juice, some garlic, and some parsley is all you need to bring out the natural sweetness of the crab meat. Melt your butter and mix in your seasonings. Brush this mixture onto your crab legs before grilling.
Grilling Your Crab Legs
When grilling your crab legs, pre-heat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400F). Place the crab legs on the grill grates and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are heated through and they have developed grill marks. Brush your crab legs with butter mixture occasionally during the grilling process.
How To Know When They're Done?
Once the crab legs are heated through, you can tell they're done by looking at their color. The meat should appear white or slightly opaque. The shells will turn bright reddish-orange. If you're unsure, you can also use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the crab legs. The internal temperature should read 145°F.
Serving Suggestions
Crab legs are a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. You can serve them as-is with lemon wedges, garlic butter, or cocktail sauce on the side. You can also take the meat out of the shells, chop them up, and use them in salads, pasta dishes, or as a topping on pizza. Whatever you choose, you can be sure that grilled crab legs will be a hit at your next barbecue.
Conclusion
Grilling crab legs may seem intimidating at first, but it's surprisingly easy. By following these simple steps, you'll be able to whip up a delicious and healthy meal in no time. Whether you're entertaining guests or just want to enjoy a nice summer day in your backyard, grilled crab legs are a perfect choice. So get out there and start grilling!