Description

Treat yourself to a luxurious meal with this Buttered Lobster Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes. Succulent lobster meat is gently tossed in a rich garlic-butter sauce with sweet cherry tomatoes and fresh herbs, then swirled into perfectly cooked pasta. It’s an elegant dish that’s surprisingly simple to make, yet full of restaurant-quality flavor—ideal for special occasions or an indulgent weeknight dinner.

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Ingredients

For the Pasta:
8 oz spaghetti or linguine
Water for boiling
1 tsp salt

For the Lobster & Sauce:
2 cups cooked lobster meat (claw and tail, chopped into bite-sized pieces)
4 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 small shallot, finely chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of ½ lemon

For Garnish & Serving:
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, torn
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Extra lemon wedges for serving

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and chopped shallot. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and soft.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes & Simmer
Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using).
Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes begin to blister and release their juices.

Step 4: Add Lobster & Butter
Gently add the chopped lobster meat to the skillet.
Add the remaining 2 tbsp butter and toss lightly to coat the lobster in the sauce.
Cook for 2–3 minutes just until the lobster is warmed through.
Season with salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet.
Pour in a bit of reserved pasta water (start with ¼ cup) to loosen the sauce.
Toss everything together gently until well coated and glossy. Add more pasta water if needed.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley and torn basil.
Optional: Top with freshly grated Parmesan for an extra layer of richness.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for brightness.

Notes

Use Fresh Lobster – Fresh or high-quality frozen lobster tail or claw meat works best.
Don’t Overcook – Lobster is already cooked, so just warm it gently to avoid toughness.
Balance the Sauce – A touch of lemon brightens the buttery richness.
Choose the Right Pasta – Long noodles like spaghetti or linguine hold the sauce beautifully.
Add Pasta Water Gradually – Helps create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American