Dungeness crab is found all along the western Pacific, ranging from Alaska’s Aleutian Islands to southern California, inhabiting eelgrass beds and sandy bottoms. It takes its name from the port of Dungeness in Washington state, a long and beautiful sand spit on the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

While the sweet tasting Dungeness crab is now on menus from San Francisco to Shanghai, it has long been a seafood staple here on the Oregon coast.

This incredibly versatile and delicious food can be eaten cooked, chilled and dipped in a little warmed butter for a classic approach. It can also be tossed into salads, used to stuff vegetables, or in dishes such as omelettes, soups and soufflés.