Lobster is a luxurious and delicious seafood dish that’s perfect for special occasions or just when you want to treat yourself. But while the lobster itself is undoubtedly the star of the show, the right side dishes can really take your meal to the next level. In this article, we’ll cover some classic and creative side dishes that pair perfectly with lobster, as well as tips on pairing wines and cooking the perfect lobster sides.
Classic Lobster Sides
Buttered Corn on the Cob
There’s nothing quite like sweet, juicy corn on the cob slathered in butter to complement the rich flavor of lobster. To prepare this classic side dish, simply boil the corn in salted water for a few minutes until it’s tender, then slather it with plenty of butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Roasted Potatoes
Roasted potatoes are a great side dish for lobster because they’re hearty enough to stand up to the rich flavor of the seafood. To make roasted potatoes, toss diced potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like (garlic, rosemary, and thyme are all great options), then roast in the oven until they’re crispy and golden brown.
Garlic Green Beans
Green beans are a light and healthy side dish that pairs perfectly with the richness of lobster. To make garlic green beans, simply sauté fresh green beans with minced garlic and a little bit of olive oil until they’re tender and fragrant. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is a decadent and indulgent side dish that’s the perfect match for lobster. To make creamed spinach, sauté chopped spinach and onions in butter until the spinach is wilted, then add heavy cream and simmer until the sauce is thick and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg to taste.
Caesar Salad
Caesar salad is a classic and refreshing side dish that’s perfect for balancing out the richness of lobster. To make Caesar salad, toss crisp romaine lettuce with a creamy dressing made from garlic, anchovies, lemon juice, olive oil, and grated Parmesan cheese. Top with croutons and extra Parmesan cheese.
Creative Lobster Sides
Lobster Mac and Cheese
Lobster mac and cheese is the ultimate indulgent side dish for seafood lovers. To make lobster mac and cheese, cook elbow macaroni according to the package directions, then mix it with a rich and creamy cheese sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and your favorite cheeses. Add chunks of cooked lobster meat and bake until the dish is golden and bubbly.
Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus is a healthy and delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with lobster. To make grilled asparagus, toss fresh asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grill them over high heat until they’re charred and tender.
Lobster Bisque
Lobster bisque is a rich and velvety soup that makes a great side dish for lobster. To make lobster bisque, sauté onions, carrots, and celery in butter until they’re tender, then add lobster shells, tomato paste, and spices and cook until fragrant. Add chicken or vegetable broth and simmer until the soup is rich and flavorful. Puree the soup and strain it, then add heavy cream and chunks of cooked lobster meat.
Quinoa and Mango Salad
Quinoa and mango salad is a light and refreshing side dish that’s perfect for pairing with lobster. To make this colorful salad, cook quinoa according to the package directions and let it cool. Dice fresh mango, red onion, and red bell pepper and add them to the quinoa. Mix in chopped cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet potato casserole is a sweet and savory side dish that’s a great match for lobster. To make this dish, bake sweet potatoes until they’re tender, then mash them with butter, brown sugar, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Top with a streusel made from brown sugar, flour, and more butter, and bake until the topping is crisp and golden brown.
Pairing Wines with Lobster and Sides
Pairing the right wine with your lobster and side dishes can really enhance the flavors of the meal. For lobster, try a crisp and refreshing white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. For more robust lobster dishes like lobster bisque or lobster mac and cheese, consider a richer white wine like Viognier or a light red like Pinot Noir.
When it comes to pairing wine with side dishes, look for wines that complement the flavors of the dish. For example, a citrusy white wine like Riesling pairs well with Caesar salad, while a full-bodied red like Cabernet Sauvignon is a great match for roasted potatoes.
Tips on Cooking Lobster Sides
No matter which side dishes you choose to serve with your lobster, there are a few tips that can help ensure that they turn out perfectly. First, be sure to season your side dishes well with salt and pepper. This will help bring out the flavors of the dish and complement the sweetness of the lobster.
When it comes to cooking techniques, keep it simple. Roasting, sautéing, and grilling are all great options for lobster sides. Just be sure to cook your vegetables until they’re tender and slightly charred for maximum flavor.
Conclusion
Lobster is a delicious and indulgent seafood that deserves the perfect side dishes to complement its rich flavor. Whether you opt for classic sides like corn on the cob and creamed spinach or get creative with lobster mac and cheese or quinoa and mango salad, there are plenty of options to choose from.
By pairing the right wines with your lobster and sides and following a few simple cooking tips, you can create a memorable and delicious meal that’s sure to impress your guests. So go ahead and indulge in some lobster and side dishes – you deserve it!
