BAY CRAB RECIPES

Steps:

• Put the crab legs in the bottom of a large stockpot, then cover with 4 quarts of water and stir in the seafood seasoning (see Cook's Note). Halve the lemons and squeeze the juice into the pot, then add the rinds. Cover and bring to a boil, then cook over medium-high heat until the crab legs are warmed through, about 5 minutes. Remove the crab legs to a large serving bowl or platter.
• Meanwhile, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook until the butter foams and simmers, about 1 minute. Remove from the heat and let stand 5 minutes. Using a spoon, remove any milk solids from the surface of the butter, then slowly pour the melted butter into a small serving bowl, leaving any watery, white whey behind in the saucepan. Serve alongside the crab legs. 

Steps:

• Heat the oven to 375 degrees and grease a shallow, 2-cup capacity baking dish or ovenproof skillet with butter.
• In a medium mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, cream cheese, 1/4 cup Parmesan, mayonnaise, lemon zest and juice, scallion, Old Bay and salt; mix with a fork until thoroughly combined. Scrape the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth into an even layer.
• In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan and the crushed Ritz crackers; sprinkle the mixture evenly over the dip.
• Bake for about 25 minutes, or until bubbling and golden brown on top. Dust lightly with Old Bay, sprinkle with a few minced scallions, and serve hot with sliced cucumbers and crackers.