Cooking Guide: Snow Crab Cocktail Claws

Snow Crab Cocktail Claws are a delightful seafood delicacy celebrated for their tender, sweet meat and convenience. These succulent claws are carefully sourced from the frigid waters of the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans, where snow crab thrives. Their distinctively sweet and delicate flavor makes them a favorite among seafood enthusiasts. What sets Snow Crab Cocktail Claws apart is their ease of preparation; they are pre-cooked, expertly cracked, and ready to enjoy straight from the package. Whether served as an elegant appetizer with zesty cocktail sauce or incorporated into seafood salads and pasta dishes, these claws offer a quick and delectable seafood experience, perfect for both casual and upscale occasions. Snow Crab Cocktail Claws are a testament to the convenience and exquisite taste of premium seafood.

Thawing Instructions

Remove the frozen snow crab cocktail claws from their original packaging. Transfer them to a leak-proof plastic bag, ensuring a tight seal. This step is crucial not just to prevent potential cross-contamination, but also to catch any liquid that may be released as the claws thaw.

Thawing: Place the sealed bag with the crab claws on a plate or shallow pan to contain any incidental drips. Store in the refrigerator to thaw.

Checking: Inspect the claws after about 8 hours. The thawing duration can vary based on the quantity of claws and your refrigerator’s temperature, but it may take up to 24 hours for a complete thaw. 

Serving Instructions

For optimal taste and texture, serve the snow crab cocktail claws soon after they’re thawed. These fully cooked claws are conveniently prepared, eliminating the need for additional heating or cooking.

After thawing, carefully drain the liquid from the bag into the sink and gently pat the claws dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for removing excess moisture that can cause sogginess.

Arrange the claws cocktail-style on a platter or in cocktail glasses, complemented by a side of seafood sauce.

This hassle-free preparation allows you to enjoy these delectable crab claws right after thawing, making them a convenient and delightful addition to your dining experience.

If you prefer serving your Snow Crab Claws warm here are our recommended heating methods:

Oven Warming:

• Preheat your oven to a low temperature, around 275°F (135°C).
• Arrange the thawed crab claws in a single layer on a baking sheet. You can lightly brush them with melted butter or olive oil for extra flavor.
• Warm the claws in the oven for about 10 minutes. Keep a close eye to ensure they don't overcook.

Steaming:

• Fill a pot with about an inch of water. Bring the water to a simmer, not a full boil.
• Place the thawed crab claws in a steamer basket or insert. Ensure they are not submerged in water.
• Cover the pot and steam the claws for about 3-5 minutes. The key is to heat them through without cooking them further.

Tips for Successful Heating:

• Do Not Overcook: The claws are already cooked, so you’re only warming them.
• Check Frequently: Regardless of the method, check the claws frequently to avoid overheating.
• Use Butter or Lemon Juice: A light brush of melted butter or a squeeze of lemon juice can enhance their flavor without the need for further cooking.
• Serve Immediately: Serve the claws as soon as they are warmed to enjoy their best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

• Accompaniments: Serve with melted butter, cocktail sauce, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
• Presentation: Arrange them beautifully on a serving platter with garnishes that complement their flavor.

Remember, the key is gentle heating. It's better to underheat and need to put them back for a bit more warming than to overheat and end up with tough crab claws.

If you don’t intend to serve them immediately post-thawing, ensure they’re refrigerated and consumed within 1-2 days.

Nutrition Facts Servings: 1, Serv. size: 100g. Amount per serving: Calories 80, Total Fat 1.5g (2% DV), Sat. Fat 0g (0% DV), Trans Fat 0g, Cholest. 165mg (56% DV), Sodium 560mg (24% DV), Total Carb. 1g (0% DV), Fiber 1g (0% DV), Total Sugars 0g, Protein 16g, Vit. D 6.95mcg (70% DV), Calcium 73.17mg (10% DV), Iron 0.06mg (0% DV), Potas. 140mg (3% DV).

Snow crab is low in calories and saturated fat while also providing high-quality protein. It’s rich in essential vitamins like B12 and minerals such as zinc and selenium, which support immune function and overall health. Snow crab also contains modest amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, to help support heart health.

Please review our Seafood Safety Guidelines