Grilling Whole Crabs: What to Serve as Sides

Are you planning to grill whole crabs for your next seafood feast but unsure about what sides to serve? Look no further! In this article, we will provide you with some delicious and easy-to-make side dishes that will perfectly complement your grilled crabs. From classic coleslaw to garlic butter corn on the cob, we’ve got you covered with the best side dish options to make your crab grilling experience a memorable one.

Side Dishes That Complement Grilled Whole Crabs

Fresh and Tangy Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled whole crabs. The fresh and tangy flavors of the coleslaw help to balance out the richness of the crab meat. To make a delicious coleslaw, simply shred some cabbage and carrots, and toss them with a dressing made of mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Serve the coleslaw chilled for a refreshing accompaniment to your grilled crabs.

Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob

Garlic butter corn on the cob is another fantastic side dish to serve with grilled whole crabs. The sweetness of the corn pairs well with the savory flavors of the crab, while the garlic butter adds a rich and indulgent touch. To make garlic butter corn on the cob, simply boil or grill the corn until tender, then brush it with a mixture of melted butter and minced garlic. Sprinkle with salt and pepper before serving.

Zesty Grilled Vegetables

Zesty grilled vegetables are a great way to add some color and variety to your crab feast. Grilling vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus enhances their natural flavors and gives them a delicious charred finish. To make zesty grilled vegetables, simply toss your favorite veggies in olive oil, salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs or spices. Grill until tender and slightly charred, then serve alongside your grilled whole crabs for a complete and satisfying meal.

Drinks to Pair with Grilled Whole Crabs

Refreshing White Wine

A crisp and refreshing white wine is the perfect accompaniment to grilled whole crabs. Consider serving a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the rich and savory flavors of the crab meat. The acidity in white wine helps to cut through the richness of the crab, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Ice-cold Beer

For a more casual dining experience, an ice-cold beer is a classic choice to pair with grilled whole crabs. A light and crisp lager or pilsner is a great option to cleanse the palate between bites of crab. The carbonation in beer helps to refresh the taste buds and enhance the flavors of the grilled crab.

Citrus-infused Iced Tea

For a non-alcoholic option, citrus-infused iced tea is a refreshing choice to serve alongside grilled whole crabs. The citrus flavors in the tea complement the sweetness of the crab meat, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Consider adding a splash of lemon or orange juice to your iced tea for an extra burst of flavor.

Desserts to End Your Grilled Crab Feast

Homemade Key Lime Pie

Indulge in a tangy and refreshing homemade key lime pie to cleanse your palate after enjoying grilled whole crabs. The creamy texture and zesty flavor of the key lime filling perfectly complement the savory seafood dishes you’ve just enjoyed.

Chilled Berry Sorbet

For a lighter option, consider serving a chilled berry sorbet as a sweet ending to your grilled crab feast. The fruity flavors of the sorbet provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory crab meat, leaving you feeling satisfied and refreshed.

Grilled Pineapple with Coconut Ice Cream

For a tropical twist on a classic dessert, try serving grilled pineapple with coconut ice cream. The caramelized sweetness of the grilled pineapple pairs perfectly with the creamy and tropical flavors of the coconut ice cream, creating a decadent and satisfying end to your meal.

In conclusion, grilling whole crabs can be a delicious and satisfying meal for seafood lovers. When deciding on what to serve as sides, consider options that complement the flavors of the crab, such as grilled vegetables, fresh salads, or garlic bread. Don’t forget to add some refreshing beverages and maybe a citrusy dessert to round out the meal. With the right sides, your grilled whole crab feast is sure to be a hit at your next backyard barbecue. So fire up the grill, crack open some crabs, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering seafood feast!