Air Fried Soft Shell Crab Sandwich
Recipe posted in: Flex Meals & Snacks, Lunches & Dinners, Main CoursesFor seafood lovers, the combination of crispy fried crab and a soft sandwich is hard to resist. But what if you can indulge in this delicious treat in a healthier way? The air fryer is a perfect option to get that crispy texture without the excess grease. Learn how to make an Air Fried Soft Shell Crab Sandwich that is not only healthier but also deliciously satisfying. This recipe takes the classic soft shell crab sandwich to the next level with a crispy exterior and succulent interior. Say hello to a healthier alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture!
How to Cook Soft Shell Crab in the Air Fryer
Want to learn how to cook soft shell crab the easy way? Look no further than your air fryer! Just follow our easy recipe for a mouthwatering crab sandwich.
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F and give the basket a quick spritz of nonstick spray. Now, grab two bowls and pour milk into one, then combine flour, cornmeal, Old Bay and garlic powder in the other.
Pat the soft shell crab dry, then dip it into the milk before coating it in the flour mixture. Pop it in the air fryer basket and wait for about 8 minutes or until it’s fully cooked and crispy.
Finally, let’s assemble the sandwich with toasted whole wheat hamburger rolls. Spread your choice of cocktail sauce, mayonnaise or mustard on the top half of the bun. On the bottom bun, layer lettuce leaves, tomato slices, and the air fried crab. Seal it with the top bun and get ready to wow your taste buds!
This recipe makes two sandwiches. If you’re on Nutrisystem, each serving counts as two SmartCarbs, one PowerFuel and two Extras.
What to Serve with Soft Shell Crab
Soft shell crab is a delicacy that many seafood lovers enjoy. Known for its tender texture and sweet flavor, soft shell crabs can be prepared in a variety of ways, including fried, pan-seared or grilled.
While soft shell crab sandwiches are a common preparation, there are many other ways to enjoy this delectable treat. Here are a few other ideas for serving your air fried soft shell crab:
- Curry: Soft shell crab can be used as a protein in a spicy curry dish. The crab gives the curry a deliciously sweet flavor that pairs well with the heat of the curry.
- Tacos: Why have a fish taco when you can switch things up and make a soft shell crab taco instead? Top with a fresh salsa and tangy lime crema for a balanced and flavorful meal.
- Egg Benedict: Swap out traditional ham or bacon in a classic eggs benedict and replace it with crispy air fried soft shell crab. Top with poached eggs and hollandaise sauce for a decadent breakfast treat.
- Crab Cakes: Use soft shell crab meat instead of lump crab meat to make delicious crab cakes. The tender texture of the soft shell crab adds an extra element of sweetness to the dish.
- Salad: Combine air fried soft shell crab with fresh greens, crisp vegetables and a light vinaigrette dressing for a refreshing and flavorful salad.
- Stir-fry: Soft shell crab adds a unique texture to stir fry dishes. Sauté with vegetables and Asian sauces for a delicious and quick meal.
- Pasta: Incorporate soft shell crab into your favorite pasta dish for a touch of sweetness. Garlic, olive oil and a squeeze of lemon naturally complement the sweet flavor of the crab.
Soft shell crab is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various dishes to create delicious meals for any occasion. Consult the Nutrisystem Grocery Guide for more ingredient ideas!
More Healthy Sandwich Recipes
Servings: 2
Calories per Serving: 402
On Nutrisystem, Count As: 2 SmartCarbs, 1 PowerFuel and 2 Extras
Ingredients:
- 2 soft shell crabs
- 1/8 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/8 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 tsp. Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/4 cup nonfat milk
- 2 whole wheat hamburger rolls
- 2 green leaf lettuce leaves
- 2 slices tomatoes
- 2 Tbsp. cocktail sauce or mayonnaise, or 2 tsp. mustard
Directions:
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F. Grease air fryer basket with nonstick spray.
- Prepare 2 bowls: Pour the milk in one bowl. In the other bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, Old Bay and garlic powder.
- Pat the soft shell crab dry. Place crab in the milk, then coat in the flour mixture.
- Place crab in the air fryer basket and cook for about 8 minutes, or until fully cooked.
- Assemble sandwich with toasted buns: Spread cocktail sauce, mayo or mustard on the top half of the bun. On the bottom bun, top with lettuce, tomato, crab and then the top bun.