If you're looking for a delicious and healthy seafood option, look no further than 1 medium blue (Atlantic) crab weighing in at 6 ounces live weight, yielding 65 calories after cooking and shell removal. Not only is this dish low in calories, but it is also high in protein and packed with essential micronutrients.

Crab is a great source of lean protein, with each 6-ounce serving containing approximately 14 grams of protein. It is also low in fat and carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for those watching their waistline. In addition, crab is loaded with micronutrients like zinc, vitamin B12, and selenium, all of which play important roles in maintaining overall health and wellness.

In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about crab, from its nutritional benefits to how to cook and serve it up deliciously.

Calories in Medium Blue (Atlantic) Crab

As mentioned above, a 6-ounce serving of medium blue (Atlantic) crab yields approximately 65 calories after cooking and shell removal. This makes it an ideal option for those looking for a low-calorie, high-protein meal that is both satisfying and delicious. It is important to note that the way in which you prepare your crab can affect its overall calorie count. Baked or broiled crab, as specified in the title of this article, is a healthier cooking method than deep-frying or sautéing, which can add excess calories and fat. In general, crab is a great meal option for those who are looking to stay on track with their weight loss goals, without sacrificing taste or nutrition.

Carbs, Fat, and Protein in Crab

Crab is a lean source of protein, with a 6-ounce serving providing approximately 14 grams of protein. It is also low in both fat and carbohydrates, with only 1 gram of fat and 0 grams of carbs per serving. This makes it an ideal choice for those who are watching their macronutrient intake. In addition to its macronutrient content, crab is also packed with micronutrients like zinc, vitamin B12, and selenium, all of which play important roles in maintaining overall health and wellness. Overall, crab is a nutritionally dense food that can provide a range of health benefits when included as part of a balanced diet.

Micronutrients in Crab

Crab is packed with essential micronutrients that play important roles in supporting overall health and wellness. Some of the key micronutrients found in crab include:

• Zinc
• Vitamin B12
• Selenium
• Copper
• Phosphorus
• Magnesium
• Iron

Each of these micronutrients plays a specific role in maintaining bodily functions, from supporting healthy nerve function to aiding in the production of healthy red blood cells.

Benefits of Eating Crab

In addition to its impressive nutritional profile, crab has a range of potential health benefits. Some of the key benefits of eating crab include:

• Supports healthy bones and joints
• Can aid in weight loss
• May help to reduce inflammation
• Could improve cognitive function
• Supports healthy vision

Overall, crab is an excellent choice for those looking to maintain and improve their overall health and wellbeing.

How to Cook Crab

Crab can be cooked in a variety of ways, depending on your preference and the recipe you are following. Some popular cooking methods for crab include:

• Baked
• Broiled
• Steamed
• Boiled

Regardless of your preferred cooking method, it is important to ensure that your crab is cooked to a safe internal temperature. When cooking crab, the internal temperature should reach at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

Ways to Serve Crab

Crab can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your taste preferences and the occasion. Some popular ways to serve crab include:

• Crab cakes
• Crab salad
• Crispy crab rolls
• Crab legs with butter
• Crab bisque

Regardless of how you choose to serve your crab, it is sure to be a delicious and nutritious addition to your meal.

Crab Versus Other Seafood

When it comes to seafood, there are a wide variety of options available. While crab is a great choice for its nutrient density and low calorie count, how does it stack up against other popular seafood options? Compared to other seafood options, crab is lower in calories and fat than most types of fish, including salmon and tuna. However, it is also lower in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health and cognitive function. While crab may not be the best choice for those looking for large amounts of omega-3s, it is still a delicious and nutritious option that can provide a range of health benefits when consumed as part of a balanced diet.

Finding Fresh Crab

When shopping for crab, it is important to choose fresh and high-quality options for maximum flavor and nutrition. Here are some tips for finding the best-quality crab:

• Look for crab with bright, shiny shells and no discoloration or signs of damage.
• Check the smell of the crab. It should have a fresh, ocean-like scent.
• Choose crab that feels heavy for its size, indicating that it is meaty and full.
• Avoid crab that has been previously frozen, as this can affect its flavor and texture.

By following these tips, you can ensure that you are selecting the best crab for your next meal.

Sustainable Crab Fishing

Unfortunately, like many types of seafood, crab fishing can have negative impacts on the environment and local ecosystems. However, there are steps that can be taken to promote sustainable crab fishing practices and protect our oceans for future generations.

• Choose crab that has been sustainably harvested, such as those certified by the Marine Stewardship Council.
• Avoid crab from areas with known overfishing or destructive crabbing practices.
• Advocate for sustainable fishing practices in your local community.

By supporting sustainable crab fishing practices, we can help to protect our oceans and ensure that there will be plenty of delicious and nutritious seafood options for generations to come.

Delicious Crab Recipes

Looking for some delicious crab recipes to try at home? Here are a few of our favorites:

• Classic crab cakes
• Crab salad with avocado and grapefruit
• Crispy crab rolls with spicy mayo dipping sauce
• Crab bisque with sherry and cream

No matter which recipe you choose, you are sure to love the delicious taste and health benefits of crab!