1️⃣ Gather and prepare the ingredients: Thaw 2 pounds of snow crab legs if frozen (overnight in the fridge or 15–20 minutes under cold water). Rinse under cold water to remove ice or debris and pat dry. Optional: prepare lemon slices, bay leaves, or garlic cloves for aroma.
2️⃣ Set up your steaming station: Fill a pot with 2–3 inches of water, ensuring it doesn’t touch the steamer basket. Add optional aromatics like lemon slices, bay leaves, or garlic cloves for flavor.
3️⃣ Heat the water and steam the crab legs: Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to medium to simmer. Place crab legs in the steamer basket without overcrowding, cover, and steam for 5–7 minutes until hot and fragrant.
4️⃣ Prepare the butter sauce: Melt unsalted butter over low heat and add lemon juice, salt, and minced garlic for flavor. Keep warm for serving.
5️⃣ Serve and enjoy: Use tongs to remove the crab legs and arrange on a serving platter. Garnish with lemon wedges and parsley, and serve immediately with butter sauce and sides like corn or potatoes.