Steamed lobster. The very words conjure images of seaside celebrations, summer gatherings, and the pure, unadulterated joy of cracking into a succulent crustacean. But while the lobster itself is undoubtedly the star of the show, choosing the right accompaniments elevates the entire dining experience from good to extraordinary. This comprehensive guide explores the best side dishes, sauces, drinks, and desserts that complement the delicate sweetness of steamed lobster, ensuring a memorable and mouthwatering meal.
Classic Sides: The Traditional Complements
When it comes to steamed lobster, certain side dishes have stood the test of time for a reason – they simply work. These classics are comforting, familiar, and provide a perfect balance to the richness of the lobster.
Buttered Corn on the Cob: A Sweet and Savory Harmony
Buttered corn on the cob is arguably the most iconic pairing with steamed lobster. The sweetness of the corn kernels complements the lobster’s natural sweetness, while the melted butter adds a touch of richness that ties everything together. For an extra layer of flavor, try grilling the corn first to add a smoky char. Experiment with adding herbs like thyme or chili flakes to your butter for a unique twist.
Red Potatoes: Hearty and Satisfying
Steamed or boiled red potatoes are another excellent choice. Their creamy texture and subtle earthy flavor provide a satisfying counterpoint to the lobster’s delicate meat. Toss them with butter, fresh herbs like parsley and dill, or a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness. You could also roast them with garlic and rosemary for a more robust flavor profile. Small, new potatoes are particularly well-suited for this pairing.
Coleslaw: A Crunchy and Refreshing Contrast
A classic coleslaw provides a refreshing and crunchy contrast to the richness of the lobster. The tanginess of the dressing cuts through the butter and lobster meat, cleansing the palate between bites. Opt for a creamy coleslaw or a vinegar-based slaw, depending on your preference. Consider adding shredded carrots, cabbage, and a touch of sweetness to your coleslaw for a well-rounded flavor.
Dinner Rolls: Perfect for Sopping Up the Goodness
Don’t underestimate the power of a simple dinner roll. These soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for sopping up any leftover butter or lobster juices. Serve them warm with plenty of butter for an extra indulgent treat. Consider using artisanal rolls or adding herbs like rosemary or garlic to elevate the flavor.
Beyond the Basics: Elevating Your Lobster Feast
While the classic sides are always a safe bet, there are plenty of other delicious options to explore that can take your lobster feast to the next level.
Grilled Asparagus: A Healthy and Flavorful Option
Grilled asparagus provides a healthy and flavorful counterpoint to the richness of the lobster. The slightly bitter flavor of the asparagus complements the lobster’s sweetness, while the grilling adds a smoky char. Simply toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grill until tender-crisp. You can also drizzle it with a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Quinoa Salad: A Nutritious and Vibrant Addition
A vibrant quinoa salad offers a nutritious and colorful addition to your lobster meal. Quinoa is a complete protein and provides a satisfying base for a variety of fresh vegetables, herbs, and dressings. Consider adding ingredients like cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, and feta cheese. A lemon vinaigrette dressing will add a bright and refreshing touch.
Mac and Cheese: An Indulgent Pairing
For a truly decadent experience, consider pairing your steamed lobster with mac and cheese. The creamy, cheesy sauce complements the lobster’s rich flavor, creating a truly unforgettable combination. Opt for a classic mac and cheese recipe or get creative with different cheeses and toppings. Consider adding bacon, truffle oil, or breadcrumbs for extra flavor and texture.
Caprese Salad: A Fresh and Simple Delight
A simple Caprese salad provides a refreshing and elegant contrast to the richness of the lobster. The combination of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil is a classic for a reason. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil for a perfect balance of flavors.
The Perfect Sauces: Enhancing the Lobster’s Natural Flavor
While steamed lobster is delicious on its own, the right sauce can elevate the flavor to new heights. Here are some popular sauce options.
Drawn Butter: The Classic Choice
Drawn butter is the quintessential sauce for steamed lobster. Simple, elegant, and incredibly delicious, drawn butter enhances the lobster’s natural flavor without overpowering it. To make drawn butter, simply melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over low heat, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface. Serve warm alongside your lobster.
Garlic Butter: Adding a Punch of Flavor
Garlic butter adds a punch of flavor to steamed lobster. Simply sauté minced garlic in butter until fragrant, then season with salt and pepper. You can also add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor.
Lemon Butter Sauce: Bright and Zesty
Lemon butter sauce provides a bright and zesty counterpoint to the richness of the lobster. Simply whisk together melted butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This sauce is particularly well-suited for asparagus and other vegetables.
Hollandaise Sauce: A Rich and Creamy Indulgence
For a truly decadent experience, consider serving your steamed lobster with hollandaise sauce. This rich and creamy sauce is made with egg yolks, butter, lemon juice, and cayenne pepper. It’s a classic pairing with seafood and vegetables.
Drink Pairings: Quenching Your Thirst
The right drink can enhance the flavor of your lobster and complete the dining experience.
White Wine: A Classic Pairing
Crisp, dry white wines are a classic pairing with steamed lobster. Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, and Chardonnay are all excellent choices. Look for wines with high acidity and citrus notes to cut through the richness of the lobster.
Rosé: A Versatile Option
Rosé wine is a versatile option that pairs well with a variety of foods, including lobster. Look for dry rosés with bright acidity and fruity flavors.
Beer: A Casual Choice
Light, crisp beers like pilsners and lagers are a refreshing choice with steamed lobster. The bubbles help to cleanse the palate between bites.
Sparkling Wine: A Festive Occasion
For a festive occasion, consider pairing your steamed lobster with sparkling wine. Champagne, Prosecco, and Cava are all excellent choices. The bubbles and acidity help to cut through the richness of the lobster.
Sweet Endings: Desserts to Complete Your Meal
After a satisfying lobster feast, a light and refreshing dessert is the perfect way to end the meal.
Key Lime Pie: A Tart and Refreshing Treat
Key lime pie is a tart and refreshing dessert that complements the richness of the lobster. The tangy lime filling and graham cracker crust provide a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Berry Cobbler: A Warm and Comforting Classic
A warm berry cobbler is a comforting and satisfying dessert that pairs well with steamed lobster. The sweet berries and crumbly topping provide a perfect ending to the meal.
Lemon Sorbet: A Light and Refreshing Palate Cleanser
Lemon sorbet is a light and refreshing palate cleanser that’s perfect after a rich meal like steamed lobster. The tangy flavor helps to cleanse the palate and prepare it for the next course.
Chocolate Lava Cake: An Indulgent Finale
For a truly decadent ending, consider chocolate lava cake. The molten chocolate center provides a rich and satisfying contrast to the lighter flavors of the lobster.
Tips for Steaming Lobster Perfectly
Steaming lobster to perfection is crucial for an enjoyable meal. Here are a few tips:
- Use a large pot with a steamer basket.
- Fill the pot with about 2 inches of water. You can add salt, herbs, or even beer to the water for extra flavor.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the lobsters.
- Place the lobsters in the steamer basket, cover the pot, and steam for 8-10 minutes per pound.
- The lobster is done when the shell turns bright red and the meat is opaque.
- Let the lobster cool slightly before cracking and enjoying.
Remember, the best pairings are subjective and depend on your personal preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what you enjoy most. The key is to choose sides, sauces, drinks, and desserts that complement the lobster’s delicate flavor and create a well-balanced and memorable meal. Enjoy your lobster feast!
What are some classic side dishes that complement steamed lobster?
Classic side dishes that perfectly complement the delicate flavor of steamed lobster include drawn butter, corn on the cob, and a fresh garden salad. The richness of the drawn butter enhances the lobster’s natural sweetness, while the sweetness of corn on the cob provides a contrasting texture and flavor. A light and refreshing salad balances the meal, offering a crisp counterpoint to the heavier lobster.
Beyond these traditional pairings, consider serving steamed lobster with baked potatoes topped with sour cream and chives, creamy coleslaw, or crusty bread for soaking up the delicious butter. These options offer a variety of textures and flavors that will satisfy different preferences and create a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience.
What types of sauces enhance the flavor of steamed lobster?
Drawn butter is undeniably the most classic sauce for steamed lobster, allowing its natural sweetness to shine through. Its simple preparation and rich flavor make it an ideal accompaniment. However, other sauces can also elevate the lobster experience, offering different flavor profiles to explore.
Consider trying a garlic herb butter for a more savory and aromatic sauce. A lemon aioli provides a bright and tangy counterpoint to the richness of the lobster. For a bolder flavor, a spicy sriracha mayo can add a fiery kick. Experimenting with different sauces can transform your lobster dinner into a truly personalized culinary adventure.
What beverages pair well with steamed lobster?
A crisp, dry white wine is a classic pairing for steamed lobster. Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, and Chardonnay are all excellent choices, as their acidity and fruit-forward notes complement the lobster’s delicate flavor without overpowering it. The wine’s refreshing qualities also help to cleanse the palate between bites.
If you prefer something other than wine, consider a light and refreshing beer like a Pilsner or a light lager. Alternatively, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime can provide a non-alcoholic yet equally satisfying beverage to enjoy with your lobster feast. The key is to choose a beverage that is refreshing and won’t compete with the lobster’s delicate taste.
Can you suggest some vegetable side dishes that aren’t corn on the cob?
While corn on the cob is a popular choice, there are many other vegetable side dishes that pair wonderfully with steamed lobster. Asparagus, lightly grilled or steamed, offers a delicate flavor and satisfying texture that complements the lobster perfectly. Steamed green beans with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt provide a simple yet elegant accompaniment.
For a more vibrant and colorful option, consider roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or bell peppers. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of these vegetables, creating a delicious contrast to the savory lobster. A simple salad of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette is another great choice for a refreshing and healthy side.
What are some more unusual or creative side dishes to serve with steamed lobster?
For a more adventurous culinary experience, consider pairing steamed lobster with risotto, particularly a lemon or asparagus risotto. The creamy texture and bright flavors of the risotto create a luxurious and satisfying complement to the lobster. Another unique option is a truffle mac and cheese, adding an indulgent and sophisticated twist to the meal.
If you’re looking for something lighter, try serving lobster with a mango salsa or a grilled pineapple salad. The sweetness and acidity of the fruit provide a refreshing contrast to the rich lobster. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find unusual pairings that suit your personal taste.
How can I prepare a complete meal featuring steamed lobster beyond just the main course and side dishes?
To create a complete and memorable meal featuring steamed lobster, start with a light and refreshing appetizer such as oysters on the half shell or a chilled cucumber soup. This will awaken the palate and prepare your guests for the delicious lobster to come. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is another excellent starter option.
For dessert, consider a light and fruity option like a lemon sorbet or a fresh berry tart. These desserts will cleanse the palate and provide a sweet ending to the meal without being too heavy. Offering coffee or tea after dessert is also a nice touch to round out the dining experience.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover steamed lobster without drying it out?
The best way to reheat leftover steamed lobster without drying it out is to gently steam it again. Place the lobster in a steamer basket above simmering water for just a few minutes, until it’s warmed through. Avoid overcooking, as this will make the lobster tough and rubbery.
Alternatively, you can gently warm the lobster in a pan with a little melted butter or broth. Cover the pan and cook over low heat, turning the lobster occasionally, until heated through. Be sure to monitor it closely to prevent it from drying out. Reheated lobster is best enjoyed as soon as possible for optimal flavor and texture.