If you have been dreaming of a dish that combines the indulgent flavors of butter and lobster with the fresh pop of cherry tomatoes, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Buttered Lobster Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes Recipe. It’s a wonderful celebration of bright, buttery, and slightly tangy notes all tossed together with tender pasta that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This recipe is not only a feast for your taste buds but also simple enough to make any night feel like a special occasion. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just looking to impress someone, this dish offers a perfect blend of elegance and comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are the heart and soul of this dish. Each one is thoughtfully chosen to create a harmonious balance of flavors, texture, and vibrant color that makes the dish so visually appealing and delicious.
- Linguine or spaghetti (8 ounces): The ideal pasta canvas, holding onto the sauce and adding just the right bite.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds creamy richness and a silky texture that enhances every mouthful.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Balances the butter with a fruity undertone and keeps the garlic from burning.
- Garlic cloves, minced (2): Infuses the dish with its classic aromatic depth and a bit of warmth.
- Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): A touch of subtle heat that wakes up the palate.
- Cherry tomatoes (1 pint, halved): Bursting with sweetness and acidity that brightens the whole dish.
- Dry white wine or seafood stock (1/2 cup): Adds a delicate complexity and helps to create a luscious sauce.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and bringing out natural flavors.
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Adds a mild spiciness and depth.
- Cooked lobster meat (8 ounces, chopped): The star ingredient that offers tender, sweet seafood flavor.
- Lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Brightens the dish with a refreshing citrus zing.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal notes.
- Lemon zest (from 1 lemon): Provides aromatic citrus oils to elevate the dish’s fragrance.
How to Make Buttered Lobster Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook your linguine or spaghetti according to the package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture, meaning tender but with a slight bite to it. Don’t forget to reserve about half a cup of the pasta water before draining — this starchy water is a secret to achieving the perfect sauce consistency later.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
While the pasta cooks, heat the butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes for just about 30 seconds until fragrant. This fast step releases the incredible aroma of garlic that is foundational to the entire dish without letting it brown too much.
Step 3: Cook the Cherry Tomatoes
Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and season with salt and freshly ground pepper. Cook them for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and begin to burst, releasing their sweet, bright juices. This creates the natural base of your sauce and adds vibrant color to the dish.
Step 4: Add the Wine or Seafood Stock
Pour in the dry white wine or seafood stock and let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly. This builds layers of flavor and concentrates the essence of the ingredients, preparing an exquisite sauce that will coat your pasta beautifully.
Step 5: Incorporate the Lobster and Lemon Juice
Gently fold in the cooked lobster meat along with fresh lemon juice. Take care not to over-stir so the lobster retains its tender texture and delicate flavor, warmed through just enough to mingle with the other ingredients.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta back into the skillet with the sauce, tossing everything together to coat each strand with the luscious mixture. Use some reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and achieve that perfect silky consistency that clings to every bite. Finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest and chopped fresh parsley for a zesty, herbal lift.
How to Serve Buttered Lobster Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley and lemon zest are the classic choices here, bringing vibrant, fresh notes and a cheerful look. For an extra dash of elegance, consider a small drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving.
Side Dishes
This pasta shines as a main event, but pairing it with a crisp green salad, crusty garlic bread, or lightly roasted asparagus can round out the meal with complementary textures and flavors. Something simple and fresh keeps the attention on that wonderful seafood pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish straight from the skillet for a cozy, family-style meal or plate it elegantly twirled onto individual plates for a restaurant-worthy presentation. Adding edible flowers or microgreens adds a touch of whimsy and color if you’re hosting a special dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover Buttered Lobster Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Because seafood and butter can become rich overnight, enjoy it within this timeframe for the freshest flavor and texture.
Freezing
While freshly made is best, if you must freeze leftovers, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container and store for up to one month. Be aware that the texture of both pasta and lobster may change slightly upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock to revive the sauce without drying it out. Microwaving works too, but take care not to overcook the lobster, which can turn rubbery quickly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen lobster meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! High-quality frozen lobster works wonderfully and is a convenient alternative to fresh lobster. Just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before using to maintain the best texture.
What other seafood can I substitute if I don’t have lobster?
Shrimp or scallops are excellent substitutes and pair beautifully with the buttery tomato sauce, giving you that same indulgent seafood experience.
Is it necessary to use white wine in this recipe?
Not at all. You can substitute seafood stock if you prefer to avoid alcohol, and the flavors will still blend perfectly into a delicious sauce.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, by swapping the butter for a dairy-free margarine or additional olive oil, you can create a dairy-free version without sacrificing the rich mouthfeel.
How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth rather than intense heat, making the dish pleasant for most palates. However, you can omit them entirely if you prefer no spice.
Final Thoughts
This Buttered Lobster Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients come together to create something spectacular. It’s the kind of dish that’s both comforting and a little luxurious, perfect for a special dinner or whenever you want to treat yourself. Give it a try, and I promise it will quickly become a beloved favorite in your recipe rotation.
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Buttered Lobster Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A delightful Buttered Lobster Pasta with cherry tomatoes, combining tender lobster meat with a buttery garlic tomato sauce over linguine. This easy-to-make dish offers fresh, vibrant flavors perfect for a quick yet elegant weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti
Sauce and Seafood
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or seafood stock
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 8 ounces cooked lobster meat, chopped (claw, tail, or knuckle)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine or spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare the Sauce Base: While the pasta cooks, heat the butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant to infuse the oil with flavor.
- Cook the Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the dry white wine or seafood stock and allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly reduced and flavorful.
- Incorporate Lobster and Lemon: Gently stir in the chopped cooked lobster meat and lemon juice, warming them through without overcooking the lobster.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the buttery lobster tomato sauce.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle the dish with fresh lemon zest and chopped parsley before serving for a bright, fresh aroma and flavor boost.
Notes
- Use freshly cooked lobster or high-quality frozen lobster meat for best flavor and texture.
- Substitute shrimp or scallops if lobster is unavailable for a different seafood twist.
- For a richer sauce, consider adding a touch of cream or grated Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian, American
