Are you craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices? Then look no further! This lobster and linguine recipe is surprisingly simple to make, yet delivers an explosion of fresh, delicious seafood flavor. It’s the perfect quick dinner idea for a special occasion or a weeknight treat – a true testament to the power of homemade cooking. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this elegant and easy-to-follow recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound linguine pasta
- 1 (1 1/4-pound) live lobster, or 1 1/2 pounds cooked lobster meat
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Lobster (if using live lobster)
If using a live lobster, you'll need to cook it first. Place the lobster in a large pot of boiling salted water and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until bright red and cooked through. Remove from the pot and let cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, carefully remove the meat from the claws and tail, discarding the shell. Chop the lobster meat into bite-sized pieces. If using pre-cooked lobster meat, skip to step 2.
Step 2: Cook the Linguine
Cook the linguine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Add Lobster and Wine
Add the lobster meat (cooked or pre-cooked) to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to heat through. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for a minute, allowing the alcohol to cook off slightly, creating a delicious sauce.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet with the lobster and toss to combine. Stir in the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency. Stir in the parsley and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and a lemon wedge, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of butter and olive oil.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Substitute shrimp or scallops for the lobster for a more budget-friendly option.
- Add cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra vegetables and nutrients.
- A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving brightens the flavors beautifully.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe's nutritional content will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size. However, a general estimate per serving would be:
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Around 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
This delicious lobster and linguine is a perfect example of how easy and satisfying healthy meals can be. Enjoy this incredible recipe – it's sure to become a new favorite!