Dungeness crabs have a hard-shelled, oval-shaped carapace, a pair of large claws and four legs. These bottom dwellers start life as larvae and develop by regularly shedding their shell and growing a new, larger one. During this molting period, crabs hide in rocky, creviced habitat.

Live Dungeness crabs usually have a light green or purplish brown shell with a serrated edge that turns red when cooked. The size, colour and flavour of Dungeness vary depending on the season, local habitat, feed and other ecological factors.

The meat of the Dungeness crab is sweet, with a delicate texture, and is delicious hot or cold. Serve plain boiled crab with garlic butter, cocktail sauce, or sweet chili sauce.