If you are searching for a dish that wraps the ocean’s finest flavors in a luxuriously creamy and aromatic sauce, then the King Crab Pasta with Tomato and Ouzo Sauce Recipe is the one to try. This recipe brings together sweet, tender king crab meat with the vibrant freshness of tomatoes and the distinctive hint of anise from ouzo, all enveloped in a luscious tomato cream sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of pasta. It’s a Mediterranean-inspired celebration on your plate that’s both elegant and surprisingly simple to make, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself on a cozy night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this King Crab Pasta with Tomato and Ouzo Sauce Recipe plays a vital role, elevating the dish’s layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the silky olive oil that forms the base of the sauce to the burst of freshness in the juicy cherry tomatoes, these components harmonize beautifully to create a well-balanced, mouthwatering meal.
- 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine: Choose pasta that can hold onto the creamy sauce for maximum flavor in every bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A fruity, high-quality olive oil brings a smooth richness to the sautéed aromatics.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Essential for adding that fragrant, savory foundation to the sauce.
- 1 small shallot (finely chopped): Offers a mild sweetness and delicate texture contrast.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds just a subtle kick of heat if you like a little spice.
- 1/4 cup ouzo (or dry white wine): This ingredient brings a signature anise-flavored twist that makes the sauce uniquely memorable.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved) or 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes provide natural sweetness and vibrant color to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates that indulgent, velvety texture that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and adds a beautiful depth and richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances all the flavors in the dish subtly but importantly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds aromatic warmth and balances the sweetness.
- 8 ounces cooked king crab meat (shells removed): The star of the dish, sweet and tender crab meat infuses luxurious seafood flavor.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes and a pop of green color.
- Lemon wedges and grated Parmesan for serving (optional): A squeeze of lemon juice adds a refreshing zing, while Parmesan adds umami richness for those who like a cheesy touch.
How to Make King Crab Pasta with Tomato and Ouzo Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook Your Pasta Perfectly
Begin by cooking your spaghetti or linguine in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, which typically means the pasta is tender but with a slight bite. Don’t forget to reserve half a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining—this little trick will help you loosen the sauce later and get that silky, clingy texture we all love on pasta dishes.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Infuse with Ouzo
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the minced garlic, finely chopped shallot, and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté them for 1 to 2 minutes until your kitchen fills with the rich aromas. Carefully pour in the ouzo and let it simmer gently for a couple of minutes; this step reduces the alcohol while infusing the sauce with the distinct anise flavor that sets this dish apart.
Step 3: Build the Tomato Base
Next, add the cherry tomatoes or crushed tomatoes along with tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Let them cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring now and then until the tomatoes soften and break down into a luscious sauce. This slow simmer extracts the full sweetness and tang, providing a fresh and vibrant backdrop to the creamy sauce to come.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and stir it into the tomato mixture, allowing the sauce to gently simmer another 2 minutes. This step is crucial because it transforms the acidity of the tomatoes into a velvety, balanced sauce that hugs the pasta perfectly and enhances the natural sweetness of the crab meat beautifully.
Step 5: Add the King Crab and Combine with Pasta
Carefully fold in the cooked king crab meat, stirring gently just until heated through to keep the delicate texture intact. Finally, add the drained pasta directly to the skillet and toss it all together, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. This helps the sauce glide over every strand of pasta, ensuring every bite is irresistibly creamy and flavorful.
How to Serve King Crab Pasta with Tomato and Ouzo Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is the perfect finishing touch, bringing a burst of green color and a fresh herbal brightness that cuts through the richness. A squeeze of lemon juice adds a lively citrusy note that brightens the flavors and enhances the seafood taste beautifully. For an extra layer of indulgence, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top, especially if you love a hint of savory umami in your pasta dishes.
Side Dishes
This exquisite pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil to balance the richness. Crusty artisan bread is also ideal for mopping up every last bit of sauce. For a light Mediterranean vibe, serve alongside steamed asparagus or a medley of roasted vegetables tossed with herbs and garlic, adding textural contrast and complementing the flavors of the pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the King Crab Pasta with Tomato and Ouzo Sauce Recipe nestled in elegant shallow bowls topped with a sprig of parsley and lemon wedge on the side. You can also plate it in layered fashion by first spooning sauce on the plate, gently twirling the pasta atop, and delicately arranging the crab meat on top for a stunning presentation that highlights the star ingredient. Consider adding edible flowers or microgreens for a pop of color that wows visually as much as it delights the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store the pasta and sauce together in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The delicate crab meat keeps well for about 1 to 2 days, but the flavors improve slightly when eaten fresh, so plan accordingly.
Freezing
This pasta dish is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze particularly well because the texture of the crab and cream sauce can change. If you must freeze, separate the crab from the pasta and sauce before freezing, but try to consume within a month for best quality.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the pasta over low heat in a skillet with a splash of water or cream to prevent the sauce from drying out. Avoid microwaving directly as it might cause the crab to become rubbery. Stir often for even heating and to preserve the sauce’s creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use other types of seafood instead of king crab?
Absolutely! While king crab adds a luxurious sweetness, you can substitute with lobster, shrimp, or even chunks of cooked scallops to give a similar seafood flair. Just adjust the cooking time so the seafood stays tender.
What if I don’t have ouzo? Can I use something else?
Ouzo provides a subtle anise flavor that is unique, but if you don’t have it, dry white wine is a perfect substitute. It’ll maintain the acidity balance and depth without overpowering the crab.
Is this recipe suitable for making ahead for a dinner party?
The sauce can be prepared a few hours ahead and gently reheated, but it’s best to add the crab and toss with pasta at the last minute to keep the crab’s texture tender and fresh.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap out regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free spaghetti or linguine. The sauce remains luxurious and will coat gluten-free pasta beautifully.
How spicy is the dish with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add only a mild heat to enhance the flavor complexity without overpowering the crab or cream sauce. You can easily omit them if you prefer a completely mild dish.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the way the king crab, tomato, and ouzo come together in this King Crab Pasta with Tomato and Ouzo Sauce Recipe. It feels indulgent yet approachable and brings colors, aromas, and flavors to life in every forkful. Whether cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, I wholeheartedly recommend giving this recipe a try—it’s a guaranteed showstopper that feels like a seaside escape right in your own kitchen.
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King Crab Pasta with Tomato and Ouzo Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This King Crab Pasta with Tomato and Ouzo Sauce is a delightful Mediterranean-inspired seafood dish featuring tender king crab meat tossed in a creamy tomato and ouzo-infused sauce, served over perfectly cooked spaghetti or linguine. The vibrant flavors of fresh cherry tomatoes, garlic, shallots, and a touch of anise from the ouzo create a rich, indulgent pasta experience that’s quick to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup ouzo (or dry white wine)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Seafood & Garnishes
- 8 ounces cooked king crab meat (shells removed)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Grated Parmesan, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare the Sauce Base: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, finely chopped shallot, and red pepper flakes if using. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Deglaze with Ouzo: Carefully pour in the ouzo (or dry white wine). Allow it to simmer for 1 to 2 minutes to reduce slightly and infuse the sauce with its subtle anise flavor.
- Simmer the Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes), tomato paste, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down into a saucy consistency.
- Add Cream and Thicken: Stir in the heavy cream and continue to simmer for another 2 minutes until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Incorporate Crab Meat: Gently fold the cooked king crab meat into the sauce, stirring just enough to heat it through without breaking up the delicate crab, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet. Toss to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the pasta.
- Serve: Plate the pasta immediately, garnishing with chopped fresh parsley, a squeeze of lemon juice, and grated Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Ensure the king crab meat is fully cooked before adding to the sauce; pre-cooked crab legs or packaged crab meat work well.
- Ouzo adds a distinctive light anise flavor to the sauce, but dry white wine is a great substitution if preferred.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, especially if using pre-seasoned crab meat.
- This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and crusty bread for a complete Mediterranean meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
