Spicy Crab Spaghettini With Preserved Lemon
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026
Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines
- DownloadDownload
- Share
- Language
- Discussion
This elegant spicy crab spaghettini is a sophisticated yet simple seafood dish that brings a touch of coastal luxury to your dinner table. Combining the sweet, delicate flakes of king crab with the punchy heat of sambal oelek, it offers a beautifully balanced flavour profile. The addition of preserved lemon provides a unique, salty citrus depth that cuts through the richness of the olive oil and butter, creating a vibrant sauce that clings perfectly to the thin strands of pasta.
As a high-protein meal, this recipe is as nutritious as it is indulgent, making it an excellent choice for a quick midweek treat or a light weekend supper. The use of pre-cooked crabmeat ensures the preparation remains effortless, while fresh flat-leaf parsley adds a final burst of colour and fragrance. Serve it simply with a crisp green salad for a complete, restaurant-quality experience at home.
In this article:
Continue reading below
Ingredients for Spicy Crab Spaghettini With Preserved Lemon
230g spaghettini (thin spaghetti)
120ml chopped red onion
60ml extra-virgin olive oil
1 to 2 teaspoons sambal oelek or Sriracha sauce
230g shelled cooked crabmeat, cut into 1-inch pieces (from about 575g thawed frozen king crab legs)
2 pieces preserved lemon , pulp discarded and rind rinsed and finely chopped (1 tablespoon )
1/3 cup finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
2 tablespoons salted butter
How to make Spicy Crab Spaghettini With Preserved Lemon
Cook spaghettini in a pasta pot of boiling salted water (3 tablespoons salt for 5.7L water) until al dente.
Meanwhile, cook onion in oil in a large heavy skillet over medium heat, stirring, until softened. Stir in sambal oelek and cook 1 minute, then add crabmeat. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, just until crabmeat is heated through.
Drain pasta, then add to skillet along with remaining ingredients and toss to coat well.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
16 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

Ask, share, connect.
Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

Feeling unwell?
Assess your symptoms online for free
Sign up to the Patient newsletter
Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.
By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.