Grilled Crab with Celery

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Clean the grates thoroughly with a grill brush to prevent sticking.

   Tip: Make sure the grill is very clean to avoid the crab meat from sticking.

2. 2

   Pat the crab halves dry with paper towels. Mix together softened butter, minced garlic, thyme, lemon juice, salt, and smoked paprika in a small bowl to create the herb butter.

   Tip: Prepare the herb butter ahead of time for easier assembly at the grill.

3. 3

   Brush both sides of the celery planks lightly with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside on a plate.

   Tip: Thinner celery pieces will cook faster than thicker ones, so try to cut them uniformly.

4. 4

   Place the crab halves shell-side down on the grill. Brush the exposed meat generously with the herb butter mixture.

   Tip: Work quickly to prevent the butter from dripping off before the crab starts cooking.

5. 5

   Grill the crab for 6-7 minutes without moving, allowing the meat to cook through and develop a light char on the exposed flesh.

   Tip: You'll know it's ready when the meat turns opaque and firm to the touch.

6. 6

   While the crab is grilling, place the oiled celery planks directly on the grill grates. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side until they develop light char marks and become tender.

   Tip: Flip the celery only once to achieve nice grill marks on both sides.

7. 7

   Remove the crab and celery from the grill and transfer to a serving platter. Drizzle any remaining herb butter over the crab.

   Tip: Use tongs to carefully remove the hot crab to avoid burns.

8. 8

   Garnish the platter with fresh chopped parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately while everything is hot.

   Tip: Additional melted herb butter on the side makes an excellent dipping sauce.