Healthy Pasta Dish Featuring Spicy Crab

If you're looking for a seafood dish that's both indulgent and nutritious, this healthy pasta with spicy crab will not disappoint. It combines delicate jumbo lump crabmeat, fresh herbs, and a spicy kick from Fresno chiles to create a meal that's light, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an easy way to elevate your dinner game.

Ingredients You'll Need

• 1 pound spaghetti

• Kosher salt (for boiling water)

• 2 tablespoons canola oil

• 2 Fresno chile peppers, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup dry white wine

• 1 pound jumbo lump crabmeat, picked over

• 2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped

• 2 teaspoons lemon zest, finely grated

• Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling

• Freshly ground black pepper

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.

2. Prepare the Sauce
   Heat the canola oil in a large, high-sided sauté pan over medium heat. Add the chopped Fresno chiles and minced garlic, cooking until softened and the garlic turns pale golden brown (about 3 minutes).

3. Add Wine and Crab
   Pour in the dry white wine and allow it to reduce by half, which should take about 5 minutes. Stir in the crabmeat and cook for 1 minute, just until heated through.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce
   Add the cooked pasta and a splash of the reserved cooking water to the pan. Toss everything together, letting the pasta absorb the flavors, for about 1 minute.

5. Finish with Fresh Herbs and Lemon
   Stir in the parsley, dill, mint, and lemon zest. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and season with freshly ground pepper and a pinch of salt to taste.

Tips for Perfect Pasta

• Use fresh herbs: They bring a vibrant flavor that complements the delicate crab.

• Control the spice: Adjust the amount of Fresno chiles based on your heat preference.

• Save the pasta water: It’s a natural thickener that helps create a silky sauce.

This dish is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy a healthy seafood dinner at home. Pair it with a crisp white wine and a light green salad for a complete meal.

Celebrate the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean and enjoy a taste of healthy living. If you enjoyed this recipe, share it or subscribe to our newsletter for more.