How to Cook Italian-Style Lobster with Garlic Butter
Italian-style lobster with garlic butter is a sumptuous dish that combines the sweetness of fresh lobster with the rich flavors of garlic and butter. Not only is it delicious, but it also makes for an impressive main course for any special occasion. Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering Italian-style lobster dish in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 2 live lobsters (about 1.5 to 2 pounds each)
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 4-6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions for Cooking
Step 1: Prepare the Lobsters
Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a generous amount of salt to the water, which will enhance the flavor of the lobsters. Carefully place the live lobsters into the pot headfirst and cover it. Cook for about 8-10 minutes per pound, or until the lobsters turn bright red. Once cooked, remove them from the pot and let them cool for a few minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter
While the lobsters are cooling, melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the fresh parsley, lemon juice, sea salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat while you prepare the lobsters.
Step 3: Split the Lobsters
Using a sharp knife or kitchen shears, split the cooked lobsters in half lengthwise. Start from the head and cut down toward the tail. This will expose the succulent meat and create a beautiful presentation.
Step 4: Cook the Lobster in Garlic Butter
Preheat your oven's broiler. Place the lobster halves on a baking sheet, shell side down. Generously brush the lobster meat with the prepared garlic butter mixture. Reserve some of the garlic butter for serving. Broil the lobsters for about 5-7 minutes or until the meat is opaque and slightly browned.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the lobster from the oven and drizzle any remaining garlic butter over the top. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and lemon wedges for a refreshing touch. Serve your Italian-style lobster with garlic butter alongside a simple salad or pasta for a complete meal that your guests will love.
Cooking Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the garlic butter.
- Pair your lobster with a crisp Italian white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Vermentino.
- Experiment with other herbs, such as basil or thyme, to customize the flavor profile.
This Italian-style lobster with garlic butter recipe is a delightful way to celebrate a special dinner. Whether it's for a holiday, anniversary, or a gathering with friends, this dish will undoubtedly impress and satisfy. Happy cooking!