Soft Shell Crab with Asparagus and Mushroom Salad
Posted on April 20th, 2009 by theapartmentkitchen
A few weeks ago, I had a realization. Every year, I appreciate the change of the seasons more and more. I feel an incredible sense of invigoration as everything turns green and pink and yellow. And as much as anything, my tastebuds feel it. Fresh veggies, ripe fruits, and one of my favorite things in the world: soft shell crabs.
Sauteed in a little bit of oil, this delicious crustacean is amazingly crispy and tastes amazing. You can pair it with anything: my friend Terri pan-fried it and served it over a bed of ricotta dressed pasta with wilted arugula. I suggested Matt pair it with some leftovers for a delicious sandwich. And I sauteed some spring asparagus with mushrooms and shallots for a warm, fresh salad as the base for my soft shell. They were all good – perfect matches using an impeccably fresh product.
Soft Shell Crabs with Asparagus and Mushroom Salad
Served 2.
Leftover Potential: The salad will keep well in the fridge for up to a week and is tasty hot and cold.
1 bunch asparagus, stalks cut in half
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 shallot, thinly sliced
1/2 leek, thinly sliced
1 1/2 cups mushrooms, thinly sliced
salt, as needed
pepper, as needed
2 soft shell crabs, cleaned
salt, as needed
pepper, as needed
flour, as needed
2-4 Tbsp oil
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus and cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes. If desired, shock in an ice bath to stop cooking and retain an especially green color. Set aside.
2. In a large saute pan, heat olive oil over medium high heat. Saute the shallots and leeks until tender. Add the mushrooms and cook until tender. Add the asparagus and toss. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Season the crab with salt and pepper. Dredge the crab in the flour to coat.
4. Heat the oil over medium high heat, and add the crab. Cook until the crab is bright red and crisp, about 4-5 minutes on each side. Serve over the mushroom and asparagus saute.
Print This Post
Filed under: Past Articles
Hi, nice post. I have been thinking about this issue,so thanks for writing. I will certainly be subscribing to your site.