What should you serve with juicy lobster tails to finish the meal? You don’t want anything else to take away from the main course, but you also don’t want your guests to be bored or hungry.
Here is a list of some of the best sides for lobster tails that will go well with their rich, buttery flavor and give your plate some variety and color. Whether you’re looking for something light and fresh, or something warm and comforting, the recipes have you covered. [feast_advanced_jump_to].
Few dishes feel as decadent as succulent lobster tails dripping with melted butter. But figuring out what to serve alongside the lobster can be tricky. The rich, sweet meat deserves accompaniments that enhance its natural flavor instead of overpowering it.
In this article, we’ll highlight 12 ideal pairings for lobster tails, from light starters to wine matches. Read on to discover complementary dishes that will let the lobster shine while rounding out your meal.
Refreshing Starters
Light Fresh Salad
A light refreshing salad pairs well with lobster tails because it adds zing without stealing the limelight. Opt for mixtures featuring delicate greens, sliced citrus shaved fennel, or watercress. Vinaigrettes work better than creamy dressings. The brightness balances the richness to come.
Steamed Mussels or Clams
Starting your meal with a simple preparation of steamed mussels or clams makes a great lead-in for the lobster, The sweet seafood flavors complement each other beautifully Serve with melted butter for dipping and crusty bread to soak up the cooking broth
Oysters on the Half Shell
For the ultimate luxury, kick things off with fresh-shucked oysters served over ice with lemon wedges and cocktail sauce. The briny umami taste provides the perfect prelude to lobster, especially when enjoying a glass of crisp Chablis.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
Champagne
Pop a bottle of dry brut Champagne and you have an instant celebration. Tiny bubbles provide a palate-cleansing effect between dips of lobster. And Champagne’s vibrant acidity effortlessly matches the sweetness. An all-around easy pairing.
Chablis or White Burgundy
For a white wine match, lean towards the flinty, nervy citrus notes of Chablis or White Burgundy. The high acidity contrasts rich butter while complementary minerality enhances the sweetness. An ideal foil for lobster richness.
Sauvignon Blanc
If you prefer a punchy white, Sauvignon Blanc is a safe bet with lobster. Opt for a grassy Sancerre or New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. Their zesty grapefruit flavors counterbalance the sweetness. Be careful to avoid over-oaked styles that will clash.
Wheat Beer
For beer lovers, wheat beers like Blue Moon or Allagash White make a refreshing pairing. Their hints of citrus and coriander help cut through the indulgence of lobster drenched in butter. Serve with an orange slice for a perfect complement.
Hearty Sides
Mac and Cheese
Nothing satisfies quite like homemade mac and cheese alongside succulent lobster. Opt for elbow macaroni in an ultra-rich cheese sauce using a blend of cheddar and Parmesan. Sprinkle bread crumbs or panko on top for added texture. The ultimate comfort pairing.
Pasta Salad
For a lighter take on pasta, try an Italian-style pasta salad mixing veggies and vinaigrette. Green beans, cherry tomatoes, arugula, and red onions all work nicely with short chunky pasta shapes like farfalle. The acidity balances lobster richness.
Cheesy Biscuits
Warm cheesy biscuits right out of the oven make a natural accompaniment for lobster drenched in butter. The fluffy biscuit soaks up excess butter while the cheddar cheese provides a flavor bridge to the sweetness of the lobster meat.
Coleslaw
A fresh cabbage-based coleslaw offers crunch and tangy contrast to lobster’s rich indulgence. Stick to simple creamy dressings. Too much vinegar will clash with sweet seafood flavors. Carrot and fennel slices add nice texture.
Vegetable Enhancements
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Charred sweet corn on the cob is a quintessential summer side for lobster. Grilling caramelizes natural sugars while infusing smoky depth. Slather grilled corn with compound butter for even more richness.
Roasted Asparagus
For an easy veggie pairing, roast fresh asparagus until lightly charred and tender. Toss spears beforehand in good olive oil, salt, and pepper. The nutty roasted flavor complements lobster beautifully. Shave Parmesan over the top.
Sauteed Spinach
Sauteed spinach makes a fast, iron-rich pairing for lobster. Use baby spinach leaves for tender texture. Cook briefly in olive oil with garlic and lemon juice until just wilted but still bright green. The mineral earthiness enhances sweet lobster.
Take Your Time and Savor
With so many pleasing pairings, there’s no need to rush through your lobster feast. Savor the occasion by starting with light appetizers before moving to rich sides and finally the main event. Take time to appreciate the nuances of your wine or beer selection alongside each dish. Most importantly, dip each luscious lobster bite in butter and relish every last morsel. A well-paired lobster dinner is worth lingering over.
Lobster Mac and Cheese
No doubt its one of the yummiest side dishes with lobster tails. is a luxurious twist on a comfort food classic. The crunchy breadcrumbs on top of this creamy dish make it a great side dish that will make you want to start cooking the lobster tails right away.
1 Broccoli Cheese Patties
These vegetable patties are made with defrosted frozen broccoli, breadcrumbs, sharp cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, and eggs. They would make a simple but tasty side dish for lobster meat that brings a touch of home to a fancy dinner.
If youre hosting a lobster dinner party, add a delicious side of watermelon caprese to your menu. Squares of juicy watermelon, slices of mozzarella, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic glaze come together in this tasty dish. It’s a sweet-salty delight perfect to serve with your favorite lobster dishes.
The best side dishes for seafood
What to eat with lobster tails?
Here’s the short answer. The best dishes to serve with lobster tails are jalapeno cheddar biscuits, lemon pasta, butter risotto, boiled corn on the cob, and hushpuppies. You can also try a mixed greens salad, clam chowder, grilled asparagus, and quinoa salad. For surf-and-turf options, try pork tenderloin roast and rib-eye steak. Ready?
What is a good side dish for lobster?
Find crowd-pleasing side dishes for lobster such as corn on the cob, macaroni and cheese, Caesar salad, clam chowder, and more. Get the lobster side dish ideas here.
Are lobster tails a good side dish?
Lobster tails are a delicacy that many seafood lovers enjoy. They’re known for their sweet, succulent meat that can be prepared in various ways. While lobster tails can certainly hold their own as a main dish, pairing them with the right side dishes can enhance the overall dining experience.
What Soup Goes well with lobster tails?
Here’s another thick and hearty seafood soup that works well with lobster tails. Just imagine spoonfuls of tender potato chunks drenched in thick white clam soup served on the side of sweet and juicy lobster tails. It’s pure bliss. 6. Steamed Clams and Mussels You’re probably sensing a pattern by now, aren’t you?