Lobster is often regarded as a delicacy, a luxurious treat that transforms an ordinary meal into something extraordinary. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a culinary adventure, cooking lobster at home can be a delightful experience. This guide will walk you through a simple yet delectable lobster recipe, along with essential tips, nutritional information, and a grocery list to ensure your cooking journey is smooth and enjoyable.
****Recipe Overview
Ingredients Needed:
- 2-3 tbsp butter
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp dried parsley
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- Juice of 1/4 lemon (for serving)
Cooking Time:
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 20 minutes
****Grocery List
When preparing to cook lobster, here’s a handy grocery list:
- Fresh or frozen lobster tails (about 1 lb for two servings)
- Butter (preferably unsalted)
- Paprika
- Cayenne pepper
- Garlic powder
- Dried parsley
- Fresh lemon
- Salt and black pepper
****Estimated Costs
The cost of ingredients can vary based on location and seasonality. Here’s an approximate breakdown:
- Lobster Tails: $15 – $30 per pound (depending on whether they are fresh or frozen)
- Butter: $3 – $5 for a pound
- Spices: $1 – $3 each (if you don’t already have them at home)
Total Estimated Cost: $25 – $45 for two servings.
****Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 405°F (207°C).
- Prepare the Lobster Tails:
- If using frozen lobster tails, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or place them in cold water for about 30 minutes.
- Using kitchen shears, cut the top shell of the lobster tail lengthwise to expose the meat. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
- Season the Lobster:
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter with paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Brush this mixture generously over the exposed lobster meat.
- Bake:
- Place the lobster tails on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the meat is opaque and cooked through.
- Serve:
- Once done, remove from the oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the lobster.
- Brush with additional melted butter before serving for an extra touch of richness.
****Nutritional Information
A typical serving of lobster (approximately 4 oz) contains:
- Calories: ~200 calories
- Protein: ~38g
- Fat: ~5g (mostly from butter if used generously)
- Carbohydrates: ~0g
This makes lobster not only a delicious choice but also a high-protein option with minimal carbs.
****Cooking Tips and Notes
- Choosing Lobster: Look for lobsters that are lively and have a clean shell. If buying tails, ensure they are firm and have no discoloration.
- Don’t Overcook: Lobster can become tough if overcooked. Keep an eye on it during baking; it should be just opaque when done.
- Pairing Suggestions: Consider serving your baked lobster with sides such as garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a light salad to balance the richness of the dish.
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