Grilled Maine Rock Crab Legs with Garlic Butter

Introduction

Grilled Maine rock crab legs are sweet, buttery, and infused with a delicious smoky garlic butter flavor. Using the Arteflame grill, you’ll get a perfectly charred finish while maintaining the delicate tenderness of the crab meat. This simple yet gourmet recipe will impress your guests and is perfect for any seafood lover.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs Maine rock crab legs
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
3. Light the napkins and allow the fire to build.
4. Wait about 20 minutes for the cooktop to heat up before grilling.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter

1. Melt the butter in a small bowl.
2. Stir in the minced garlic, parsley, sea salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.

Step 3: Grill the Crab Legs

1. Brush the crab legs generously with the prepared garlic butter.
2. Place the crab legs on the flat cooktop near the center for a higher heat sear.
3. Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side, brushing with more butter as they cook.
4. Move the crab legs towards the outer edges of the cooktop if needed to keep them warm without overcooking.

Step 4: Serve

1. Remove the crab legs from the grill and place on a serving platter.
2. Drizzle with any remaining garlic butter and serve with lemon wedges.

Tips

• For even more flavor, marinate the crab legs in the garlic butter for 30 minutes before grilling.
• If the crab legs are frozen, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before grilling.
• Use a grilling spatula to gently crack the shells while cooking to allow the butter to seep in.

Variations

1. Spicy Cajun: Add 1 tsp Cajun seasoning and an extra pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
2. Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh thyme and rosemary for a more herbaceous flavor.
3. Citrus Butter: Squeeze fresh orange juice into the garlic butter for a zesty citrus kick.
4. Smoky Chipotle: Add 1 tsp chipotle powder for deep smoky heat.
5. Garlic Parmesan: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the crab legs just before serving for a cheesy touch.

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus or Brussels sprouts
• Buttery grilled corn on the cob
• Garlic butter toast or warm baguette
• A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay
• Refreshing citrus salad with arugula and grapefruit

Conclusion

Grilling Maine rock crab legs on the Arteflame grill enhances their sweet, succulent flavor with a delicious smoky char. The garlic butter infusion makes each bite rich and flavorful, making this the perfect dish for seafood lovers.