What to Serve with Lobster Tails (19 Incredible Side Dishes) (2024)

Wondering what to serve with lobster tails?

From baked potatoes to biscuits to mac and cheese, I’ve rounded up 19 side dishes that will make your lobster dinner menu even more irresistible!

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What to Serve with Lobster Tails (19 Incredible Side Dishes) (1)

Lobster tails are a sweet and luxurious dish that we often reserve for special occasions.

Whether they’re steamed, grilled to perfection, or baked in butter, lobster tails make for a decadent meal that never disappoints.

And since lobster dinner is such a treat, you might think you need something equally fancy to pair it with.

What to Serve with Lobster

Truth be told, it doesn’t take a lot to turn your dinner into a phenomenal feast. The key is to find a lobster side dish that won’t overpower the main attraction.

Here are 19 of the best side dishes for lobster that will transform those tails into an unforgettable meal.

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1. Butter

Let’s start with the basics. Butter is the one ingredient that makes everything better.

It’s great with bread, corn, pastries, and as you may have guessed, lobster.

When you just don’t have time to make something fancy, or when you are simply too busy to think of a side dish, just take that butter out of the fridge.

Sometimes, all you really need is some well-prepared clarified butter to make your lobster meal extra special.

Or how about something a little more special? I think these flavored butter recipes would be amazing!

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2. Baked Potato

A simple baked potato is another classic that goes perfectly well with lobster.

It’s even more proof that you don’t need something fancy to make your lobster dinner extra satisfying.

And you know what both lobster and baked potato long for? Butter! So be sure to have plenty of butter when preparing this meal.

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3. Corn on the Cob

Lobster is sweet, and so is corn. So it only makes sense to serve them together for a delightful dinner.

Whether you grill your corn to get that nice char or simply boil it in water, it will taste so good with lobster.

Oh and don’t forget to slather it with butter and season with salt and pepper! It makes all the difference in the world.

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4. Lobster Bisque

There is no such thing as too much lobster! This stunning bisque is oozing with flavor from the lobster, coconut milk, shallots, and tomato paste.

As if that isn’t good enough, it’s even better with sweet white wine!

Together with lobster tails, lobster bisque makes for a fantastic seafood feast that your guests will never forget.

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5. Clam Chowder

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.

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6. Steamed Clams and Mussels

You’re probably sensing a pattern by now, aren’t you? Yup, seafood tastes great with seafood!

Clams and mussels have nice and subtle, sweet flavors that complement lobster really well.

Preparing the side dish is also easy. Just steam the shellfish in water, white wine, shallots, herbs, and a bay leaf for 5 to 6 minutes and it’s done!

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7. Biscuits

They’re crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and decadent all over.

Whether you get them from your favorite bakery or make them from scratch, biscuits will taste fabulous with lobster tails.

Since your lobster main doesn’t have the biggest serving size, the addition of a starchy side is perfect.

It also gets bonus points because you can use it to soak up all that extra butter on your plate!

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8. French Baguettes

From the previous entry, you already know that bread and lobster make a wonderful combination.

Apart from biscuits, French baguettes also make for a great side to lobster tails.

The crisp and chewy texture gives a nice contrast to the soft and tender lobster meat.

And don’t feel like you need to limit yourself with store-bought baguettes either, because they’re easy to make.

Impress your guests with your very own French baguette!

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9. Steamed White Rice

Speaking of starches that will help satisfy your guests, how about a nice simple serving of white rice?

It’s filling, easy to cook, and its mild taste makes the lobster tails shine.

Mix some of that clarified butter with a hot bowl of white rice, and I bet you’ll ask for seconds.

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10. Mac and Cheese

Lobster tail is sweet and meaty, while mac and cheese is rich and creamy. They are both good on their own, but they are absolute perfection together.

Here’s a quick tip: the better the cheese, the better the mac and cheese. So, don’t go cheap on the cheese when you make mac and cheese.

My top picks are Gouda, Mozzarella, Colby, Swiss, and Monterey Jack. Pick your faves and combine them to make the ultimate side dish!

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11. Pasta Salad

Can’t decide if you should go for a heavy or light side? Why not go with both?

Pasta salad is a hearty Italian dish that gives you a beautiful combination of zippy dill pickles and starchy pasta.

With a pasta salad, you’ll get nutrition and satisfaction in one dish, also known as the perfect balance between good and sinful!

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12. Potato Salad

Lobster tails are delicious on their own, but this sweet meat craves something rich and creamy. And what fits the bill more than a hearty and decadent potato salad?

Potatoes, mayonnaise, and lobster? Now that sounds like a perfect combination.

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13. Green Salad

Finally, a salad that’s made of veggies! As I’ve said, lobster tails are already so elegant and scrumptious, all it takes is a simple chopped salad to round out your meal.

You can add all kinds of leafy greens, veggies, nuts, and dressing you want! The addition of a light side dish is a wonderful contrast to your meaty main.

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14. Coleslaw

Here’s another zesty veggie dish that goes well with lobster: coleslaw. This tangy side gives a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of lobster meat.

Plus, it’s very refreshing – just like lobster tails! Its beautiful summer colors also look fabulous with your main. And it’s very easy to make!

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15. Greens

Since we’re already on the subject of healthy sides, why not talk about other green veggies?

Asparagus, broccoli, and green beans are some fantastic veggies that accompany lobster really well.

How about some steamed asparagus with a lemon and olive oil dressing?

Or a green beans salad with basil and olive oil? Or perhaps some broccoli topped with parmesan and butter?

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16. Veggie Fries

French fries are a classic, but enough about potatoes. How about other veggies instead? They’re healthier than potatoes and are just as yummy when fried… or roasted!

So, how about you slice up some carrots, sweet potatoes, and parsnips, drizzle them with some olive oil, flavor with salt and pepper, and bake to perfection?

These crisp and flavorful veggies will surely brighten up your lobster meal.

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17. Surf and Turf

This isn’t technically a side dish, but we all know steak and lobster make a great partnership.

This combo is perfect for that fancy dinner you’ve always wanted to have with your partner.

It’s elegant, sophisticated, and just so delicious.

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18. Drinks

These are also technically not side dishes, but you can also enhance the flavor of any main by pairing it with the perfect beverage.

For lobster tails, a simple cold mug of beer will do wonders! Get a beer infused with citrus flavors because it complements the sweetness of the lobster really well.

Fruity flavors work well with lobster, so a nice wine or champagne will also taste great.

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19. Dessert

Seafood always long for the companionship of a refreshing dessert. Think lemon bars, lemon cheesecake, creme brulee, chocolate mousse, or fresh fruit!

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What to Serve with Lobster Tails (19 Incredible Side Dishes) (2024)

FAQs

What vegetables go well with lobster? ›

Asparagus, broccoli, and green beans are some fantastic veggies that accompany lobster really well.

What is lobster usually served with? ›

Corn on the cob is a traditional accompaniment to lobster that adds an extra pop of vibrant color to your plate. Reviewers say this top-rated recipe is sweet, crisp, and super easy.

What is a good appetizer for a lobster dinner? ›

From simple raw veggies with a creamy dip to steamed broccoli or sugar snap peas, crisp, fresh vegetables provide a healthy, flavorful appetizer for the heavier main dish to follow. Serve broccoli and cauliflower florets or strips of red, yellow and green bell peppers with a light ranch dressing as a dip.

What flavors go well with lobster? ›

The best fresh herbs to pair with lobster are dill, tarragon, parsley, and chives.

How long does it take to boil lobster tail? ›

To cook four 8-ounce tails, bring 6 cups salted water to boiling in a 3-quart saucepan. Add the lobster tails. * How Long to Boil Lobster Tails: Simmer lobster tails, uncovered, for 8 to 12 minutes or until shells turn bright red and the meat is tender when poked with a fork.

How do you prepare frozen lobster tails? ›

How to Cook Frozen Lobster Tails - YouTube

How much is a lobster tail? ›

Crab Meat
Lobster TailsReg.
Large Lobster Tails 8-10 oz.4 Pack$164.99
8 Pack$279.99
X-Large Lobster Tails 12-14 oz.2 Pack$134.99
4 Pack$239.99
11 more rows

How long do I boil lobster? ›

Clamp the lid back on tightly and return the water to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium and cook the lobsters for 12 to 18 minutes (hard-shell lobsters will take the longer time), until the shells turn bright red and the tail meat is firm and opaque when checked.

What sides to serve with lobster thermidor? ›

Opt for a simple pasta or crispy french fries to add texture to the dish. We recommend serving a light dessert such as fresh fruit or meringue following this rich, creamy dish. A sprig of mint may also be a refreshing addition to your dessert.

How do you cook a lobster tail? ›

Add enough water to a large pot to cover the lobster tails. Bring the water to a boil, then carefully add the tails to the pot. Cook until the meat is translucent, pinkish-white, and shells are red, about 1 minute per ounce. Drain and allow to cool just enough to handle before opening the shell to remove the meat.

How do you reheat cooked lobster? ›

Preheat the oven to 350-degrees Fahrenheit. Wrap shelled lobster or tails in aluminum foil and place a couple of pats of butter over the meat. Place the wrapped lobsters on a baking pan and cook for five to ten minutes. Remove from the oven and use a thermometer to check that the lobster's reached at least 140-degrees.

What goes with surf and turf? ›

Here is a list of the seven best side dishes that blend well with surf and turf:
  • Baked Zucchini Sticks.
  • Roasted Sweet Potatoes.
  • Avocado and Tomato Salad.
  • Grilled Brussels Sprouts.
  • Roasted Potatoes.
  • Sauteed Green Beans with Garlic.
  • Oven Roasted Root Vegetables.
2 Sept 2022

What are lobster bites? ›

Wholey Lobster Bites are the real deal! Made with top ingredients, lightly breaded and ready for you to enjoy. Wholey Lobster Bites can be deep fried or baked in the oven to enjoy as a dinner, or as an appetizer. These mini cakes made with real lobster and rolled in panko breadcrumbs and seasonings.

What is the best seasoning to use for lobster? ›

You might also want to try seasoning your lobster with a subtle blend of classic spices like sage, rosemary, thyme and parsley or complement your meal with a French-inspired tarragon marinade or cream sauce. Refined flavors like mint and basil also make tasty additions.

What do you put in the water when boiling lobster? ›

Add seawater or water in the bottom of the pot – about 3 quarts per 1.5-2 pounds of lobster. If you added regular water, add . 25 cups of sea salt for each gallon of water. BOIL.

How much lobster do you need for one person? ›

With a yield of around 30 to 40%, you should plan on about on 1 1/2-pound lobster per person, giving you 6 to 8 ounces of actual meat.

What is the best way to serve lobster? ›

Super Quick Video Tips: The Best Way to Eat a Lobster - YouTube

Where is the best lobster in the world? ›

Frozen Maine Lobster Tails are the Best

If you've ever had the pleasure of dining on lobster along the coast of Maine, then you already know why fresh Maine lobster is the most coveted tails in the world. Full of sweet, tender lobster meat, cold water Maine tails are what every American expects lobsters to be.

How do you serve pre cooked lobster? ›

Cooked lobster tail meat is often served by itself with a side of drawn butter or a sauce of your choice. Similar to the above thaw instructions, leave meat sealed in its wrapping and place on a plate in the refrigerator overnight.

Is it better to boil or bake lobster tails? ›

When you buy lobster tails, you can steam them, boil them, grill them, bake them, broil them or even smoke them. If you aren't sure which method to use, we strongly recommend boiling your lobster tails because it's your best bet to avoid the tails sticking to the shell.

Do you split lobster tails before boiling? ›

Use shears or a knife to cut the lobster tail lengthwise along the middle. You should cut the lobster all the way back to the very tip of the fin. Try to avoid cutting into the meat, so that it does not break apart during the boiling. Instead, keep the shears well above the meat by pulling up on the shell as you cut.

How many lobster tails is a serving? ›

In general, you should plan for about 8-10 oz of cooked lobster tail meat per person if you're serving lobster tails as your main dish – meaning two lobster tails per person, unless they are jumbo lobster tails.

Do you need to thaw frozen lobster tails before cooking? ›

Always make sure your lobster tails are fully defrosted so the tail meat can cook evenly and prevent the meat from sticking to its shell.

Which is better cold water or warm water lobster tails? ›

You can also typically tell a warm water lobster because they have black spots covering their shells. Cold water lobster tails will almost always be more expensive than warm water lobster tails, but for good reason, they taste better.

Can you cook frozen lobster tails without thawing? ›

Can You Cook Frozen Lobster Tails without Thawing Them? You can cook certain types of frozen seafood without thawing it first, like salmon (see our Lemon Butter-Baked Frozen Salmon and Pan-Fried Honey-Garlic Frozen Salmon). But you'll want to thaw lobster tails before cooking them, otherwise they'll end up tough.

What is the best size for lobster tails? ›

You want to cook right away once thawed. Look for lobster tails ranging from 5oz to 12oz. These are smaller tails, and are the prime size for getting a good amount of meat and a quality taste and texture with lobster tails. Buy from a reputable place.

How much does a 1lb lobster tail cost? ›

Fresh Lobster Tail Meat - 1 lb
Regular$92.99
Lot of 4$86.99
Lot of 8$82.99

How much are Costco lobster tails? ›

You can find lobster tails at Costco for $40 per pound. The product name is "Northwest Fish 4-5 oz Cold Water Lobster Tails, 30-count, 10 lbs." It is frozen and uncooked and contains 30 lobster tails, and costs about $399.99 in total. Costco's lobster tails are available in Costco stores in both the U.S.A. and Canada.

How much lobster do you need for one person? ›

With a yield of around 30 to 40%, you should plan on about on 1 1/2-pound lobster per person, giving you 6 to 8 ounces of actual meat.

How do you prepare frozen lobster tails? ›

How to Cook Frozen Lobster Tails - YouTube

How long does it take to boil lobster tail? ›

To cook four 8-ounce tails, bring 6 cups salted water to boiling in a 3-quart saucepan. Add the lobster tails. * How Long to Boil Lobster Tails: Simmer lobster tails, uncovered, for 8 to 12 minutes or until shells turn bright red and the meat is tender when poked with a fork.

Is it better to boil or steam lobsters? ›

Lobster that is steamed is more tender as less water infiltrates the shells. If you have a crowd of people, boiling is the way to go, as it's the best method for cooking four or more lobsters at one time. LobsterAnywhere.com cites the main advantage here is the high, intense heat from the boiling water.

What is the best size lobster tail to eat? ›

Look for lobster tails ranging from 5oz to 12oz. These are smaller tails, and are the prime size for getting a good amount of meat and a quality taste and texture with lobster tails.

What is the best size lobster to eat? ›

While many people think that bigger is better, smaller lobsters are actually sweeter in flavor. The smallest lobster you can buy in Maine will weigh around 1 and 1/4 pound. I recommend purchasing lobsters in the 1 and 1/4 to 2 pound range to get the best tasting meat.

How old is a 2lb lobster? ›

A lobster's age is approximately his weight multiplied by 4, plus 3 years. A lobster is approximately 7 years old before it is legal to harvest, and it will weigh about 1 pound. A lobster has a greater life expectancy than most humans. A 25 pound lobster could be over 100 years old!

Is it better to boil or bake lobster tails? ›

When you buy lobster tails, you can steam them, boil them, grill them, bake them, broil them or even smoke them. If you aren't sure which method to use, we strongly recommend boiling your lobster tails because it's your best bet to avoid the tails sticking to the shell.

Do you need to thaw frozen lobster tails before cooking? ›

Always make sure your lobster tails are fully defrosted so the tail meat can cook evenly and prevent the meat from sticking to its shell.

Which is better cold water or warm water lobster tails? ›

You can also typically tell a warm water lobster because they have black spots covering their shells. Cold water lobster tails will almost always be more expensive than warm water lobster tails, but for good reason, they taste better.

Do you split lobster tails before boiling? ›

Use shears or a knife to cut the lobster tail lengthwise along the middle. You should cut the lobster all the way back to the very tip of the fin. Try to avoid cutting into the meat, so that it does not break apart during the boiling. Instead, keep the shears well above the meat by pulling up on the shell as you cut.

How many lobster tails is a serving? ›

In general, you should plan for about 8-10 oz of cooked lobster tail meat per person if you're serving lobster tails as your main dish – meaning two lobster tails per person, unless they are jumbo lobster tails.

What's the best way to cook a lobster tail? ›

Add enough water to a large pot to cover the lobster tails. Bring the water to a boil, then carefully add the tails to the pot. Cook until the meat is translucent, pinkish-white, and shells are red, about 1 minute per ounce. Drain and allow to cool just enough to handle before opening the shell to remove the meat.

Do you put lobster in cold water after boiling? ›

Once the lobster is cooked (I personally prefer steaming), let it cool down for a few minutes, either with cold water, an ice bath or at room temperature. Remember that the lobster keeps cooking after being steamed, so I prefer to shock it with ice to stop the cooking immediately to prevent over-cooking.

How long do you bake a lobster tail at 350 degrees? ›

Lobster tails typically bake in 8 to 30 minutes depending on the size. They should be baked at 350 degrees F until the internal temperature reaches 140 degrees F.

How does Gordon Ramsay cook lobster? ›

Gordon Ramsay Demonstrates How To Cook The Perfect Lobster

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