Grilled King Crab (In Two Easy Steps)

Being born and raised in Minnesota where seasons change often, I have really noticed that with the weather changes comes changes in how I cook. Have you ever notice that? In cold winters I am usually dreaming up hearty and comforting soups, stews, and casseroles but the minute the weather hits 60°F,  I am yearning for all things grilled with a margarita on the side! This year, we have been insanely blessed with summer-like weather in March! Yes, I said March!

Now, I know what you might be thinking... and it's along the lines of crab legs being really expensive, isn't it? I agree that they can be. When dining out, king crab legs are a "market price" item and let's face it... that is never worth it. There is, however, no reason you can't cook these puppies like the pros for a lot less.

There are just two super simple steps to making to making crab legs at home.

Grilled King Crab (In Two Easy Steps)

Ingredients: 
King Crab Legs
(The amount is solely dependent on how many people you are serving. I suggest a minimum of 1/2 Lb. per person.)

*King crab can be purchased from your local grocery or market. I buy mine at Sam's Club for typically $17.99 to 24.99 a pound, which is oodles cheaper than what you will pay in some fancy restaurant. (Note, you may purchase them frozen or not... it doesn't make a difference.)

Directions:
Fill up your kitchen sink with water and throw in the crab legs. (Easy so far, right?)
Let them soak for a minimum of 3 hour; maximum of 6 hours.

After your crab legs have been soaked an adequate amount of time, remove from water and transfer to a pre-heated grill. Grill 3-4 minutes per side.

Todd and his hands... again!

That's it! (Don't you feel silly for ever paying "market price" right now? These are SO easy!
Now, get crackin into those things!  I usually dip in warm garlic lemon butter. (Recipe follows.)

Garlic Lemon Butter (for dipping)

Ingredients: 
1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened 
1 garlic clove, minced 
2 teaspoons grated lemon rind
1/2 lemon; juiced
1 teaspoon minced fresh parsley 
1/4 teaspoon salt 
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions:
Cook all ingredients in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until butter melts and mixture is thoroughly heated.

Source: Crab legs are a Toddy original.
Garlic Lemon Butter Recipe is slightly adapted from this one at My Recipes.