Crab is a prized delicacy enjoyed for its rich flavor and tender texture. Whether you're hosting a casual crab boil or a sophisticated dinner party, the right side dishes, sauces, and drinks can elevate the entire experience. The key is to choose pairings that either complement or contrast the crab's natural sweetness and savory notes.
Classic Side Dishes for a Crab Feast
For a traditional and satisfying crab meal, these side dishes are time-honored favorites that won't distract from the star of the show.
Potatoes in All Their Forms
Potatoes are a subtle yet versatile companion for crab. Their mild, starchy nature provides a perfect counterpoint to the rich seafood. Roasted fingerling potatoes with rosemary and thyme add a sophisticated flair, while classic creamy mashed potatoes can be elevated with garlic butter and sour cream. Simple salt potatoes, boiled with salt and butter, are a New England tradition that pairs beautifully. For a more casual affair, crispy french fries or sweet potato wedges with a hint of spice offer a delightful handheld option.
Fresh and Roasted Vegetables
Vegetables offer a fresh, healthy contrast to the buttery crab. Roasted or grilled vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, carrots, and bell peppers are always a solid choice. The caramelization from roasting brings out their natural sweetness, which harmonizes with the crab's flavor profile. For a quicker option, steamed or blanched green beans, sautéed with garlic and red pepper, are a delicious and fast side. You can even serve raw vegetables like carrots and celery sticks for dipping into the same sauces as the crab.
Corn on the Cob
Sweet corn is a classic and beloved side for crab. It's a fun finger food that perfectly complements the rich seafood. Whether you're steaming it with a touch of lemon and butter or grilling it wrapped in foil for a smoky flavor, corn is an easy and delicious addition. A light corn salad with tomatoes and cilantro offers a refreshing take for a summer crab feed.
Dipping Sauces to Elevate Your Crab
The right sauce can transform your crab dinner. Here are some of the most popular and effective choices.
Classic Garlic Butter Sauce
This is arguably the most iconic dipping sauce for crab. A simple combination of clarified butter, fresh garlic, and a squeeze of lemon provides a savory and tangy dip that enhances the crab's flavor without masking it. For extra depth, you can add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of herbs like parsley.
Spicy and Tangy Sauces
For those who enjoy a little heat, a spicy sauce can create a dynamic flavor contrast. A homemade cocktail sauce with ketchup, horseradish, and hot sauce is a popular choice, especially with cold crab meat. A creamy, spicy dipping sauce made with mayonnaise and chipotle or a zesty Diablo sauce with chilies and tomatoes can also provide an exciting kick.
Asian-Inspired Dips
For a unique twist, consider an Asian-inspired dipping sauce. A Vietnamese nước mắm with fish sauce, lime juice, chiles, and ginger offers a sweet and spicy profile. Alternatively, a simple ginger sauce made with soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar is a perfect accompaniment for steamed crab.
Comparison of Popular Crab Accompaniments
| Feature | Roasted Vegetables | Potatoes | Sauces (e.g., garlic butter) | Corn on the Cob |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | Earthy, slightly sweet, smoky | Creamy, starchy, mild | Rich, tangy, savory | Sweet, juicy |
| Preparation Difficulty | Medium (chopping, roasting) | Varies (mashing is easy) | Easy (melting, stirring) | Easy (steaming, grilling) |
| Best for | Adding a healthy balance to the meal | A classic, filling complement | Enhancing and varying crab flavor | Traditional, casual crab feasts |
| Pairs Well With | Most crab preparations | Any preparation, especially hot crab | Hot or cold crab dishes | Crab boils, grilled crab |
| Best Served | Hot or warm | Hot or warm | Warm (butter-based) or chilled (mayo-based) | Hot |
Refreshing Beverages to Serve
The right drink can cleanse the palate and perfectly complement the delicate crab meat.
White Wine
Crisp, dry white wines are a classic choice for seafood. Sauvignon Blanc, with its high acidity and citrus notes, cuts through the richness of the crab. An unoaked Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio also works well, offering a clean, refreshing taste. For a celebratory feel, a dry sparkling wine is an excellent option.
Light Beer
Light, crisp lagers or pale ales are an excellent match for a casual crab boil. The mild, carbonated flavors won't overpower the crab, and a squeeze of lemon can add a bright, fresh note.
Iced Tea or Lemonade
For a non-alcoholic option, fresh iced tea with lemon or a pitcher of homemade lemonade provides a refreshing and simple pairing that complements the sweetness of the crab.
Creative Menu Additions
Beyond the staples, there are many ways to get creative with your crab meal.
Deviled Eggs
Creamy, savory deviled eggs are a great finger food for a seafood dinner. You can even add a touch of extra crab meat to the filling for an extra luxurious touch. Serve a platter of deviled eggs alongside your crab for a delicious appetizer or side dish.
Crispy Rice with Crab Salad
For an appetizer with texture, consider crispy rice topped with a fresh crab salad. The crunchy rice contrasts wonderfully with the soft, delicate crab meat, and a zesty aioli or ponzu sauce can tie it all together.
Green Salad with a Citrus Vinaigrette
A crisp, green salad with a simple lemon vinaigrette can serve as a palate cleanser throughout the meal. Adding ingredients like avocado, pear, or radishes can add extra texture and flavor, creating a more sophisticated side.
Garlic Bread
Warm, crusty garlic bread is a fantastic addition to any crab dinner. It's perfect for soaking up any extra butter and seasonings, and its savory flavor is a satisfying counterpoint to the sweet crab meat.
Conclusion
From traditional sides like potatoes and corn to rich sauces and crisp wines, a wide array of foods and drinks can be served with crabs to create an unforgettable meal. The best pairings complement the sweet, delicate flavor of the crab while adding variety and texture to the feast. By considering a mix of fresh vegetables, creamy starches, and zesty sauces, you can craft a balanced menu that will delight your guests. Whether you stick with the classics or try some more creative additions, enhancing your crab dinner is all about balance and personal preference.
Further Reading
For specific preparation techniques and recipes, a resource like Maine Lobster Now's blog offers a variety of ideas for delicious crab sides.
