Lobster Linguine with Basil

Name: Lobster Linguine with Basil
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 12 ounces linguine pasta; 2 cooked lobsters, meat removed and chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1 lemon, zested and juiced

Highlighted under: Flavors Around the World

I absolutely love making Lobster Linguine with Basil! The marriage of tender pasta and succulent lobster, all tied together with fresh basil, creates a dish that feels luxurious yet surprisingly easy to prepare. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of summer evenings by the sea, where the flavors meld together beautifully. I make sure to use freshly cooked lobster for the best taste, along with a hint of lemon to brighten up the dish. It’s a real crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress.

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2026-01-22T18:46:28.748Z

When I first tried making Lobster Linguine with Basil, I was blown away by how simple yet elegant it turned out. The trick is to ensure your lobster is just perfectly cooked—overcooked lobster can become rubbery, and we definitely want it tender and flavorful. I also love incorporating fresh basil at the end to keep its vibrant flavor intact.

Experimenting with the ratio of garlic to cream has made a huge difference in achieving that luscious sauce that clings perfectly to the linguine. It's this attention to detail that elevates the dish and keeps me wanting to come back to this recipe time and time again.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously rich with a hint of freshness from the basil
Perfectly cooked lobster adds a gourmet touch
Quick and easy, ideal for special occasions or a weekday treat

Unlocking the Flavor of Lobster

Using freshly cooked lobster elevates this dish immensely. Fresh lobster has a sweet, briny flavor that complements the richness of the cream sauce. If you need to use frozen lobster, make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then steam or boil it just until heated through for the best texture. Avoid overcooking, as it can become rubbery and lose that luxurious quality every bite should offer.

The key to enhancing the dish’s flavor is in the balance of ingredients. The addition of fresh lemon juice not only brightens the sauce but helps cut through the heaviness of the cream and lobster. Be careful not to overdo it; start with a tablespoon of lemon juice, taste, and adjust as needed, ensuring it highlights rather than overwhelms the dish.

Perfecting Your Sauce

When cooking the garlic, keep an eye on it to prevent burning; sauté until fragrant but not browned—about one minute on medium heat should suffice. This ensures the garlic's strong, aromatic qualities infuse the oil without adding a bitter note. If you prefer a little extra depth, consider adding a splash of white wine after the garlic, letting it reduce slightly before adding the cream.

The cream should be brought to a gentle simmer to thicken without boiling. Too high a heat can lead to a sauce that separates and becomes greasy. Stirring continuously while adding the Parmesan will help it melt smoothly into the cream, ensuring a luscious texture rather than clumps. This technique minimizes the risk of the sauce becoming overly thick or unappetizingly grainy.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Lobster Linguine with Basil.

Ingredients

12 ounces linguine pasta
2 cooked lobsters, meat removed and chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1 lemon, zested and juiced

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped and ready before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious Lobster Linguine with Basil.

Cook the Linguine

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

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and stir, allowing it to simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked lobster meat to the skillet and toss to combine. Then, stir in the Parmesan cheese, basil, lemon juice, and lemon zest.

Toss the Pasta

Gently fold the cooked linguine into the sauce mixture, adding reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Divide the Lobster Linguine among plates, garnishing with extra basil and lemon zest, if desired. Enjoy your gourmet meal!

Serve immediately for the best taste!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. It will give your dish a delightful kick. Freshly cracked black pepper right before serving also enhances the dish beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

For a stunning presentation, consider serving the Lobster Linguine in individual shallow bowls or on large platters. Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan and a few whole basil leaves for color. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil can enhance the dish’s visual appeal, adding a glossy finish that invites immediate enjoyment.

Pair this luxurious pasta with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay, to complement the sweetness of the lobster. A side salad of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish beautifully, while keeping the meal feeling fresh and light.

Storing and Reheating

To store leftovers, transfer the Lobster Linguine to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it a great next-day option. However, for optimal texture, reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or water to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the lobster to become tough.

If you're making this dish in advance for a special occasion, prepare the sauce without the lobster and store it separately. Cook and toss in the lobster just before serving. This method helps maintain the ideal texture and tempers the risk of overcooking the seafood during reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen lobster?

Yes, you can use frozen lobster meat, but ensure it’s fully thawed and cooked properly.

→ Can I substitute the linguine?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap linguine for spaghetti or another pasta of your choice.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best to prepare this recipe fresh, but you can cook the lobster and prepare the sauce ahead of time and combine everything just before serving.