Butter-Poached Lobster with Garlic, Herbs & Parmesan Cream

Butter-Poached Lobster with Garlic, Herbs & Parmesan Cream
Servings
2 servings
Preparation Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
20 minutes

Ingredients
For the Lobster
2 whole lobsters (about 450–500 g / 1–1.1 lb each)
150 g (⅔ cup) unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 shallot, finely chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
1 tsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
Salt, to taste .Freshly ground black pepper, to taste .
Paprika or chili flakes (optional)

For the Creamy Base
120 ml (½ cup) heavy cream
40 g (⅓ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp lemon juice
Lemon zest (optional, for freshness)

For Garnish
Extra grated Parmesan
Fresh thyme sprigs
Cracked black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Lobsters
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the lobsters and boil for 5–6 minutes until shells turn bright red (they should be partially cooked).
Remove and immediately transfer to ice water to stop cooking.
Split the lobsters in half lengthwise and remove the intestinal vein.
Carefully remove the meat from the shells, keeping tails and claws intact if possible.

2. Make the Butter Sauce
In a wide skillet over low heat, melt the butter slowly.
Add olive oil to prevent the butter from burning.
Stir in garlic and shallots; cook gently for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (do not brown).
Add thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.

3. Butter-Poach the Lobster
Add lobster meat to the butter sauce.
Cook gently over low heat for 6–8 minutes, spooning butter over the lobster continuously.
The lobster should be tender and opaque, never sizzling.

4. Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Base
In a small saucepan, heat the cream over low heat.
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Add lemon juice and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Keep warm (do not boil).

5. Assemble the Dish
Spoon the Parmesan cream onto the plate as a base.
Place the butter-poached lobster on top.
Drizzle generously with garlic butter from the pan.
Sprinkle with extra Parmesan, herbs, and cracked black pepper.
Finish with lemon zest or chili flakes if desired.

Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or risotto.
Pair with a chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

Texture & Flavor Notes
Lobster: buttery, tender, sweet
Sauce: rich, creamy, aromatic

Overall dish: luxurious, restaurant-style seafood