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Spicy Crab Pasta in 20 Minutes

Spicy Crab Pasta in 20 Minutes: A Quick Gourmet Delight

This Spicy Crab Pasta in 20 minutes is a quick gourmet delight that combines sweet crab meat with a hint of spice and zesty flavors.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Tagliatelle or other long pasta Feel free to swap with fettuccine or spaghetti.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil Can be substituted with avocado oil.
  • 1 tbsp Unsalted butter Use additional olive oil for a dairy-free option.
  • 3 medium cloves Garlic, minced Fresh garlic enhances aroma.
  • 2 Anchovy filets, drained Omit for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 tsp Red pepper flakes Adjust to your heat preference.
  • 1 lb Lump crab meat, picked over Fresh or canned retains the best quality.
  • ⅓ cup Dry white wine Choose a wine you enjoy.
  • 1 tsp Kosher salt Taste and adjust to your liking.
  • 1 Lemon juice and zest (from 1 lemon) Fresh lemon is non-negotiable.
  • ¼ cup Chopped parsley Try basil for a unique flair.
  • ¼ cup Chopped dill Optional but recommended.
  • 1 tbsp Capers, drained Omit if desired for a milder flavor.
  • ¼ cup Grated Parmesan Feel free to serve more on top.
  • ¼ - ½ cup Heavy cream Substitute with half and half for a lighter option.
  • Freshly ground black pepper Adjust this to your taste preference.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • Measuring Cups
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add your pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. Make Sauce: In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic, drained anchovies, and red pepper flakes. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Gently fold in crab meat. Heat through for 1 minute, then deglaze with white wine, scraping up browned bits. Season with salt and cook for 1 more minute.
  4. Unite Pasta and Sauce: Add drained pasta, lemon juice and zest, parsley, dill, capers, and Parmesan cheese. Toss until coated in sauce, allowing flavors to meld for 1 minute.
  5. Finish and Adjust: Stir in heavy cream and reserved pasta water to reach desired sauce consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding black pepper and more Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingsCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove. Best enjoyed fresh, but can be frozen for up to 1 month.

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