Are you craving a restaurant-quality meal but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen? Then look no further! This crab spaghetti sauce recipe is your answer. It's a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet elegant homemade recipe. This recipe provides a healthy meal option, ticking all the boxes for quick dinner ideas and delicious dishes.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, but adds great flavor!)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 pound lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your spaghetti according to package directions. Remember to salt the water generously – this is crucial for flavorful pasta!
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Don't let the garlic brown; keep the heat low to medium to prevent burning.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Add the diced tomatoes (undrained) and white wine (if using) to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Add the Crab
Gently stir in the heavy cream and crab meat. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the crab is heated through. Be careful not to overcook the crab, as it can become tough.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the crab sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Serve immediately and garnish with extra parsley if desired. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick for those who like a little heat. This easy recipe is perfect for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer sauce, use a combination of heavy cream and crème fraîche.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Substitute shrimp or lobster for the crab meat.
- Lemon zest adds a bright, fresh flavor. Add a teaspoon or two at the end.
- If you don't have white wine, you can substitute with chicken broth or even just a splash more tomato juice.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Protein: 25-30g Fat: 20-25g Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This crab spaghetti sauce recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's a fantastic example of how easy it is to create delicious and healthy meals at home. Enjoy the process of homemade cooking and the satisfaction of a truly wonderful dish!