Deciding what to serve with lobster can turn an ordinary evening into a fancy dinner affair faster than you can say ‘melted butter.’
From lobster tail to lobster rolls, when lobster is on the menu, the sides need to match up to its rich flavor and tender texture.
So, let’s set the table and get ready to make some delicious choices for your lobster with my 25 favorites.
Sweet & Buttery Corn On The Cob
Corn on the cob that is slathered with melted butter is a classic side that’s easy to prepare and fun to eat, just like eating lobster itself. And let’s be real, watching butter drip down the sides of a freshly grilled cob of corn? That’s the good stuff, the kind of messy that everyone loves.
Caesar Salad
The cool crunch of romaine lettuce, tossed with a tangy Caesar dressing, parmesan cheese, and rustic croutons, balances your plate.
For a twist, toss those romaine leaves on the grill for a smoky flavor. It adds a charred, caramelized dimension that pairs unexpectedly well with lobster’s delicate flavor.
Coleslaw With A Light Vinaigrette
Coleslaw is the sleeper hit at any lobster dinner. It’s that crunchy, tangy salad that can cut through the richness of lobster.
Swap out the heavy, creamy dressing for a light vinaigrette, and you’ve got yourself a slaw that’s as bright and zippy. The vinaigrette keeps it light and helps to cleanse the palate between those luscious bites of lobster.
Pasta Salad With A Herb Vinaigrette
Pasta salad dressed in a herb vinaigrette is that light side dish that brings a playful, garden-fresh vibe to your lobster dinner. You can toss in cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or even some olives for a little extra oomph. Plus, it’s just as delicious, served chilled or at room temperature.
Bacon & Cheddar Biscuits
Bacon and cheddar biscuits are a lobster feast’s ultimate comfort food sidekick. They’re flaky and savory and pack a flavor punch with smoky bacon bits and sharp cheddar cheese. These are a personal favorite of mine for how they complement the sweet, tender lobster meat.
Wild Rice Pilaf
Wild rice pilaf is a hearty, nutty side that stands up to the luxuriousness of lobster without stealing the spotlight. I love tossing in some sautéed mushrooms, toasted almonds for depth, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs to brighten the whole dish. And it’s a fancy dinner move that’s actually pretty easy to pull off.
Baked Potatoes
Baked potatoes are the blank canvas of the side dish world, and when they’re done right, they’re downright irresistible.
The goto picks are a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chives, maybe a bit of crispy bacon, or a pat of butter and a crack of black pepper.
They’re a humble yet hearty accompaniment to the delicate flavor of lobster, and they have a way of making everyone feel right at home.
Steamed Green Beans With Almonds
Steamed green beans with almonds offer a crisp, fresh side that’s as vibrant on the plate as it is on the palate. The beans bring a tender texture and a grassy note that’s just the ticket alongside the richness of lobster.
Toss in some toasted almonds for a nutty crunch, and you have a wholesome and indulgent side.
Penne With Olive Oil & Herbs
Penne tossed with olive oil, and a medley of herbs is a light, Italian-inspired side that’s a cinch to prepare. This dish is a go-to for me because it’s quick to put together and has that ‘made with love’ vibe that guests can’t get enough of.
It’s subtle enough not to overshadow the lobster but brings its own set of flavors that complement the seafood beautifully.
Hearty Corn Chowder
Corn chowder is a comforting addition to a lobster spread. This soup brings a sweet flavor that echoes the natural sweetness of lobster, while the creamy base adds a rich depth. It’s a great way to start a meal, setting the stage for the lobster to shine as the main event.
Crispy Zucchini Fries
Zucchini fries bring a crispy exterior with a sweet, tender interior that’s just delicious. I’ve served these as an alternative to the usual potato fries, and they always get rave reviews. You can season them with anything from simple salt and pepper to more adventurous spices to match your theme.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts
When these little guys are roasted just right, they get a crispy exterior with a tender, almost sweet center.
The garlic adds a punchy aroma, and the Parmesan cheese melts into a crispy, savory layer that’s downright addictive. I’ve popped these in the oven while I’m getting my lobster ready, and they come out as caramelized bites of goodness that are hard to resist.
Quinoa Salad With Lemon & Herbs
Quinoa is nutty and fluffy, making it a great base for the bright flavors of lemon zest and juice, along with whatever fresh herbs you have on hand.
I’ve found this salad to give your mouth a break from the richness of lobster with its refreshing flavor. You can also add some diced veggies for crunch or a handful of dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
Garlic & Lemon Roasted Artichokes
When you perfectly roast artichokes, they transform into a tender, meaty treat with edges that crisp up beautifully. The garlic infuses them with a warm, aromatic flavor, while the lemon brings a zesty kick that cuts through the richness.
They’re a bit of work to prep, but the payoff is huge. The combination of garlic and lemon with the artichokes’ natural earthiness is a knockout with lobster. It’s a side that’s a bit unexpected but totally memorable.
Saffron Infused Rice
Saffron-infused rice is a dish that’s simple in concept but rich in flavor and presentation.
The saffron threads lend a luxurious golden hue and a subtle, earthy aroma that’s just exotic enough to make your lobster dinner feel like a special occasion. It’s a gentle complement to lobster and quick to prepare, leaving you more time to focus on getting that lobster just right.
Sweet Potato Fries With Spicy Aioli
Sweet potato fries are sweet and savory that add color and flavor to your lobster dinner. The spicy aioli dip is the perfect partner, adding a creamy texture and a kick that complements the natural sweetness of the fries.
I’ve whipped up this combo for family dinners, and it’s always a hit. The aioli can be as mild or as fiery as you like.
Caprese Salad With Balsamic Glaze
Caprese salad drizzled with a balsamic glaze is a side that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. The simplicity of the ingredients allows each one to shine, and they come together to form a light yet satisfying side. It’s the kind of dish that’s effortless to assemble but looks like you’ve put in all the effort in the world.
Roasted Asparagus With Shaved Parmesan
When asparagus is roasted, it becomes tender, slightly sweet, and full of depth. Topping it with shaved Parmesan adds a salty, umami flavor. I’ve tossed this dish together for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, and it’s always met with nods of approval.
It’s a side that’s both healthy and indulgent, and it pairs with lobster in a way that’s just right.
Herb-Infused Polenta
Herb-infused polenta is a creamy, comforting side that’s a bit of a twist from the usual. The polenta’s mild corn flavor is the perfect backdrop for the robust flavors of rosemary, thyme, or sage, and it’s just the thing to soak up all those lovely lobster juices. It’s a side that feels a bit gourmet but is straightforward to make.
Ratatouille With Seasonal Vegetables
Ratatouille with seasonal vegetables is a vibrant, rustic side that’s as healthy as it is colorful. This French dish is a medley of zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and tomatoes, all simmered together with herbs to celebrate summer’s bounty.
I’ve served this alongside lobster for a lighter, veggie-forward option, and it’s always a hit. Plus, it’s a one-pot dish, making cleanup a breeze.
Creamy Risotto With Parmesan & Peas
Creamy risotto with Parmesan and peas is a side that’s all about indulgence. When you stir that risotto until it’s just right, it turns into this creamy, dreamy dish that’s full of flavor. Sure, it’s a bit of a labor of love, but the result is so worth it.
The creamy texture of the risotto is a fantastic contrast to the firmness of the lobster, and the flavors are a match made in heaven.
Roasted Beet Salad With Goat Cheese
The earthy sweetness of roasted beets pairs beautifully with the creamy tang of goat cheese. I’ve tossed this salad together for a burst of color and taste that complements the lobster’s richness without competing for the spotlight.
The beets are roasted until they’re just tender, then mixed with greens, a sprinkle of nuts for crunch, and that glorious goat cheese.
Stuffed Bell Peppers With Quinoa & Vegetables
These colorful peppers have a sweet, slightly charred flavor that’s irresistible. The quinoa stuffing with robust veggies like zucchini, onion, and tomato becomes a hearty yet healthful companion to succulent lobster.
They’re a complete package of nutrients and taste, with the quinoa providing a lovely texture contrast to the lobster. The peppers act like little bowls, cradling all the goodness inside, and they’re just as fun to eat as they are to look at.
Butternut Squash Soup
Butternut squash soup is a creamy, comforting starter that sets the stage for a luxurious lobster meal. The soup’s natural sweetness and velvety texture make it a heartwarming choice, especially on cooler evenings. It pairs wonderfully with lobster, as both share a delicate sweetness that’s enhanced by a touch of cream or coconut milk swirled into the soup.
Lemon Cheesecake
Lemon cheesecake is a dessert that’s as refreshing as it is rich. After a meal featuring lobster, this cheesecake’s citrusy zing is the perfect palate cleanser. I’ve ended dinners with this tangy treat, and it’s always a hit. Whether you garnish it with lemon zest, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream, it’s the kind of finale that makes a meal memorable.
Dips And Drizzles For Lobster
Here’s the lineup of dips and drizzles for lobster that you and your guests can appreciate alongside your favorite side dish:
- Melted Butter: Pure, simple, and the ultimate buttery lobster experience.
- Lemon Wedges: For those who love a spritz of citrus, lemon wedges let guests add a touch of refreshing flavor to their taste.
- Garlic Herb Aioli: A creamy blend with a garlic punch, this aioli brings a robust flavor that complements the lobster’s sweet notes.
- Cocktail Sauce: A zesty, tomato-based classic with just enough horseradish to wake up every bite.
- Tarragon Dipping Sauce: The anise-like taste of tarragon offers a sophisticated twist that’s downright fancy.
- Spicy Mayo: A dollop of heat for those who like it hot. Mix mayo with a splash of hot sauce for a spicy, creamy kick.
- Saffron Cream Sauce: A luxurious, rich sauce that adds a touch of elegance to the tender lobster meat.
- Chive Sour Cream: A tangy, oniony contrast to the lobster’s sweetness, this sauce is a simple yet flavorful addition.
- Classic Mignonette: A vinegar and shallot mix that’s unexpectedly perfect with lobster, offering a sharp, clean bite.
Wrapping up a feast centered around the king of crustaceans, it’s clear that the sides and sauces are more than just supporting acts. They’re essential players that elevate the entire dining experience.
