Lobster Pesto Fettuccine

Name: Lobster Pesto Fettuccine
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 200g fettuccine pasta; 1 cup cooked lobster meat, chopped; 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves; 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup ricotta cheese; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Pine nuts (for garnish)

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Creations

I've always adored fresh seafood, and when I discovered how well it pairs with pesto, I was hooked! This Lobster Pesto Fettuccine not only highlights the delicate sweetness of lobster but also combines it with the aromatic notes of basil and garlic. The creamy texture of the fettuccine elevates the dish, making it perfect for a romantic dinner or a special gathering. Preparing it only takes a handful of ingredients and a little time, making it a delightful and gourmet experience right at home.

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:13:27.454Z

When I first tried making Lobster Pesto Fettuccine, I was amazed at how simple yet elegant the dish turned out. I used freshly cooked lobster, which added a tender richness that was hard to resist. Pesto, made from scratch, complements the lobster’s natural sweetness beautifully. I found that using a mix of parmesan and ricotta gives the sauce a creamy depth that elevates every bite!

Throughout my cooking, I made sure to balance the flavors. A hint of lemon at the end brightens the dish, making it refreshingly satisfying. Don't shy away from adding extra pine nuts for crunch or fresh basil for an aromatic finish. This dish can easily impress anyone who sits around your table!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Sweet, succulent lobster that takes center stage
A vibrant, homemade pesto bursting with flavor
Creamy fettuccine that brings the dish together beautifully

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

When preparing Lobster Pesto Fettuccine, the freshness of your ingredients can greatly influence the dish's overall flavor. Using fresh basil instead of dried will enhance the vibrant and aromatic notes of the pesto, while opting for high-quality olive oil will contribute to the richness of the sauce. Additionally, sourcing fresh lobster meat, whether you cook it yourself or buy it pre-cooked, ensures a sweet and succulent texture that complements the creamy fettuccine perfectly.

Don’t overlook the role of cheese in this recipe. Aged parmesan will give a robust flavor profile that harmonizes with the sweet notes of the lobster. Ricotta adds creaminess and helps bind the sauce to the pasta, creating a cohesive dish. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute the parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, though this may slightly alter the overall character of the dish.

Tips for an Ideal Pesto

Creating a smooth and flavorful pesto is key to elevating your Lobster Fettuccine. When blending the pesto, it's important to add the olive oil gradually while the food processor is running. This emulsification technique helps achieve a silky texture that clings to the pasta. If your pesto isn’t creamy enough, try adding more olive oil a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

The balance of flavors in your pesto is crucial. Start with the recommended ratios of basil, garlic, and cheese, but don’t hesitate to adjust to fit your palate. If you're a fan of garlic, feel free to increase the clove count slightly. Conversely, if you find the walnut flavor overwhelming, you can add more parmesan to balance it out.

Serving and Storing Suggestions

To serve your Lobster Pesto Fettuccine beautifully, consider presenting it on a large platter rather than individual plates. This allows everyone to see the colorful, inviting mix of lobster and vibrant pesto. For an extra touch, you can also drizzle a bit of high-quality extra virgin olive oil on top and sprinkle freshly cracked black pepper just before serving. Pairing this dish with a crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, can enhance the flavors even further.

If you have leftovers, store the fettuccine in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, add a splash of water or additional olive oil and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring gently to avoid overcooking the lobster. However, note that the freshness of the dish is best enjoyed when served immediately, so try to enjoy it all in one sitting!

Ingredients

Gather the following fresh ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

200g fettuccine pasta
1 cup cooked lobster meat, chopped
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/4 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Pine nuts (for garnish)

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Here's how to create this delicious Lobster Pesto Fettuccine:

Cook the Fettuccine

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the fettuccine. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of the pasta water.

Prepare the Pesto

In a food processor, combine basil, parmesan, ricotta, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the lobster meat and pesto. If the mixture is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until the desired consistency is achieved.

Serve and Garnish

Plate the fettuccine and garnish with pine nuts and additional basil if desired. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your homemade Lobster Pesto Fettuccine!

Pro Tips

Using fresh lobster is key to achieving the best flavor and texture. Don't skimp on the quality of your ingredients, especially the basil and olive oil, as they greatly enhance the pesto's richness.

Ingredient Substitutions

While this recipe relies on lobster for its unique flavor, you can still enjoy a seafood-inspired fettuccine by substituting with shrimp or crab if lobster is unavailable. Both options will provide a delightful taste, but be sure to adjust cooking times; shrimp generally cook in just 2-3 minutes, while crab meat should be warmed gently to avoid it becoming rubbery.

For dietary restrictions, you might consider using gluten-free fettuccine made from rice or chickpeas, which can replicate the pasta's comforting texture without the gluten. Additionally, for a dairy-free approach, try nutritional yeast in place of cheese in the pesto and use a dairy-free ricotta substitute.

Enhancing Flavor Profiles

To further elevate your Lobster Pesto Fettuccine, think about incorporating additional flavor layers through garnishes and side dishes. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives can add a bright, herbal note. Additionally, serving the dish with a side of roasted cherry tomatoes or a light arugula salad dressed with lemon can complement the main course perfectly.

Another idea is to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto for a subtle kick. This can create a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the lobster. If you prefer a more sophisticated flavor, consider experimenting with infusing the olive oil with herbs before using it to make the pesto to deepen the overall taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen lobster meat?

Yes, frozen lobster meat can be a great substitute. Just ensure it's fully thawed before using.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make the pesto in advance?

Absolutely! Pesto can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week, just make sure to cover it with a layer of olive oil to prevent oxidation.

→ Is there a vegetarian alternative?

You can replace the lobster with roasted vegetables or sautéed mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.