When you’re jotting down your Fourth of July cookout grocery list, don’t forget to add the most important thing, crabs!
The summer is heating up, work shoes are being replaced with “dressy sandals”, and every evening ends with a dip in the pool—sure signs it is almost the Fourth of July! Independence day is the celebrated as the birthday of America, or, when the Declaration of Independence received more than a few John Hancocks on the bottom. This year marks our 240th year as the United States of America and Americans across the country will celebrate with parades, fireworks, and delicious cookouts. When you’re jotting down your Fourth of July cookout grocery list, don’t forget to add the most important thing, crabs!
Perfect for Pairing
Crabs are a great Fourth of July food for pairing with some of America’s favorite things, beer and wine. Sparkling wines work perfectly with fried food and they will complement the flavors in your crab cakes flawlessly. White wines like Pinot Blanc have notes of apple, pear, peach, and citrus. Because of their smooth and soft texture, they are the perfect pour to match your crab feast or crab cake dinner.
If beer is more your speed, pop open your Fourth of July cooler and grab a Natty Boh or another light beer that won’t overwhelm the delicate crabby flavor of your crab feast. Remember, when choosing a beverage opt for paler colors and lighter flavors to ensure the best possible pairing.
A Striking Supplement
Crab cakes are an excellent addition to your summer spread. They are an incredibly versatile item with surprisingly healthy nutrition facts to boot. You can stuff different meats like chicken or steak with crab cakes for a deliciously decadent Fourth of July dinner or cook them and serve them on buns like hamburgers. If you are hosting a more upscale celebration, crab cakes plate up beautifully with tartar sauce and lemon slices alongside.
Once you’ve taken care of picking your entrées it’s time to fill up the rest of the plate. No Fourth of July celebration is complete without an array of tempting sides like French fries or twice-baked potatoes. If potatoes aren’t your starchy speed, try rice or a rice pilaf. To add some color to the plate, prepare a fresh side salad or steam green beans or broccoli. If you want the most authentic crabby experience, go for corn on the cob.
Feeling Crabby?
Costas Inn is a family owned and operated restaurant that has been serving the Baltimore area for over 40 years. In 2015, we were voted Baltimore’s best seafood restaurant by USA Today (and we have a feeling it has something to do with our excellent crabs). Enjoy our crab cakes in our restaurant or order them online to be delivered to your doorstep in time for your Fourth of July cookout. Still hungry? Visit us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn, and Pinterest for more!