Steamed crab legs

Steamed crab legs are a popular seafood dish featuring the legs of various crab species, most commonly snow crab or king crab, cooked gently over steam. The primary ingredient is simply the crab legs themselves, often served with drawn butter or a light dipping sauce. This preparation method is widely enjoyed in coastal regions worldwide, from North America to East Asia.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is extremely high in protein while being virtually carb-free and low in fat, making it a lean, nutrient-dense choice. A typical serving provides a substantial amount of selenium, vitamin B12, and zinc, with a calorie count that remains relatively low, generally between 100-150 kcal for a standard portion.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	120 kcal
Protein	26 g
Carbs	0 g
Fat	1.5 g
Fiber	0 g
Sugar	0 g
Sodium	480 mg
Selenium	40 mcg
Vitamin B12	10 mcg
Zinc	4 mg
Phosphorus	250 mg
Copper	1.2 mg
Magnesium	60 mg
Niacin (B3)	3 mg
Omega-3 (EPA+DHA)	0.4 g

Per 1 leg cluster (approx. 145 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Steaming is considered a purist's cooking method, as it preserves the delicate, sweet flavor and tender texture of the crab meat far better than boiling. Nutritionally, crab legs are one of the most efficient natural sources of vitamin B12, which is crucial for nerve function and energy production.