Served most frequently in upscale restaurants, boiled crab legs can sometimes get a bad rap for being too fussy and difficult to make at home. That couldn’t be farther from the truth! Crab legs are actually ready to devour in just 15 minutes. And while they are an indulgent option in terms of both taste and cost, they are cheaper to make and enjoy at home than they are at a white tablecloth restaurant.

Pieces of shells found in caves suggest early humans have been cooking and enjoying crab for more than 90,000 years! Today, if you live by the sea or visit coastal areas, you can find fresh crab, in season depending on the region and species, generally from October to January. But you don’t have to wait until crabs are in season to enjoy crab legs. Frozen crab legs are available anytime of the year. Since fresh crab is very perishable, most of the U.S. crab legs available in stores are already cooked before frozen, to retain the freshness and flavor. Boiling crab legs is really just reheating them in boiling water. What could be easier?

Due to their expense, they are frequently made for special occasions, such as holidays or anniversary dinners. If you want an impressive meal without a lot of work, this is it. Just finish with a quick butter dipping sauce for the succulent, sweet pieces of crab meat, and dive right in!

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