Are you craving a luxurious yet surprisingly simple seafood dish? Look no further! This crabmeat stuffed lobster tail recipe is the perfect answer for a special occasion dinner or a truly decadent weeknight treat. It's elegant, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make, proving that homemade cooking can be both delicious and achievable. Get ready to impress yourself and your guests with this quick dinner idea that's bursting with fresh seafood goodness.
Ingredients:
- 2 large fresh lobster tails, thawed if frozen
- 1 cup lump crabmeat, picked over for shells
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped celery
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails:
Carefully cut the lobster tails lengthwise, stopping just before the tail fan. Gently remove the meat, leaving it attached at the tail fan. If necessary, use a butter knife to loosen the meat. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Crabmeat Filling:
In a medium bowl, gently combine the crabmeat, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and Old Bay seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the crabmeat mushy.
Step 3: Stuff the Lobster Tails:
Spoon the crabmeat mixture evenly into the cut lobster tails. Place the stuffed lobster tails in a baking dish.
Step 4: Bake the Lobster Tails:
Drizzle the melted butter over the stuffed lobster tails. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and cooked through and the filling is heated. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the lobster tails.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the baked lobster tails with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with a side of rice pilaf, a fresh salad, or roasted asparagus.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Lobster:
- Freshness is Key: Using fresh, high-quality lobster tails makes a huge difference in the taste and texture of your dish.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked lobster will be tough and rubbery. Start checking for doneness around 12 minutes and adjust accordingly.
- Gentle Handling: Be gentle when handling the lobster meat to avoid breaking it.
Variations:
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the crabmeat filling for a spicier kick.
- Herby Delight: Incorporate other fresh herbs like chives or dill into the crabmeat filling for added flavor.
- Cheese Please: Add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese to the filling for a richer, cheesier flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350 (depending on lobster tail size and ingredients used)
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
This crabmeat stuffed lobster tail recipe is a true culinary masterpiece that’s surprisingly easy to create. It's a healthy meal option perfect for any occasion, showcasing the simple elegance of fresh seafood. Enjoy this easy recipe and elevate your weeknight dinners or impress your guests with this delicious and unforgettable dish. Happy cooking!