Rinse the crab under cold running water
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil
Add the crab to the boiling water
Cover the pot and cook for 12 to 15 minutes for a 2-pound crab
Cook longer for larger crabs, about 3 to 5 extra minutes per additional pound
Remove the crab with tongs and drain it
Let the crab cool slightly before cracking and serving