Ina Garten Lobster Pasta Salad

Ina Garten’s Lobster Pasta Salad is a luxurious, crowd-pleasing dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. Tender lobster meat is combined with perfectly cooked pasta, crisp vegetables, and a creamy lemon-herb dressing. It’s a bright, fresh, and satisfying salad that’s perfect for summer gatherings, special brunches, or an elevated lunch.

This Barefoot Contessa classic brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your home kitchen with minimal effort.

What Is Ina Garten’s Lobster Pasta Salad?

This lobster pasta salad features succulent chunks of lobster tossed with al dente pasta, crunchy celery, scallions, and a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. It’s served chilled for a refreshing, elegant meal or side dish.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Grilled Halibut
• Ina Garten Chopped Liver
• Ina Garten Brown Butter Corn Bread
• Ina Garten Creamy Cucumber Salad

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Lobster Pasta Salad

• Luxurious yet easy – Fancy without the fuss
• Perfect for special occasions – Great for brunches, showers, or holiday meals
• Bright, creamy dressing – Fresh and light, not heavy
• Simple, fresh ingredients – High-quality ingredients shine
• Customizable – Add your favorite vegetables or herbs
• Make-ahead friendly – Tastes better as it chills
• Elegant and impressive – Looks beautiful on the table

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Lobster Pasta Salad

• 1 pound cooked lobster meat, cut into bite-sized chunks
• ¾ pound small pasta (such as shells or elbow macaroni)
• 1 cup celery, finely diced
• ½ cup scallions, thinly sliced
• ¾ cup good-quality mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or parsley if preferred)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Lobster Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, dill, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, lobster meat, celery, and scallions. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Chill before serving

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly.

Step 5: Garnish and serve

Before serving, garnish with extra dill or a few lemon wedges if desired. Serve cold.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten’s Lobster Pasta Salad

• Grilled corn on the cob – Sweet, smoky complement
• Fresh arugula or mixed greens salad – Light and peppery side
• Crusty baguette or garlic bread – Great for soaking up dressing
• Roasted asparagus or green beans – Adds a savory vegetable side
• Chilled white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc – Perfect pairing
• Fresh fruit platter – Bright and refreshing finish
• Light potato salad or coleslaw – Classic picnic companions

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten’s Lobster Pasta Salad

• Use fresh lobster if possible – Best flavor and texture
• Cook pasta al dente – Prevents mushy texture after dressing
• Cool pasta completely before dressing – Keeps salad creamy, not watery
• Taste and adjust seasoning – Before chilling and again after
• Use good-quality mayonnaise – Makes a big difference
• Add dressing gradually if needed – Depending on pasta absorbency
• Garnish just before serving – For the freshest presentation

Creative Variations of Ina Garten’s Lobster Pasta Salad

• Add diced avocado – For extra creaminess
• Mix in cherry tomatoes or diced cucumber – Adds color and crunch
• Swap dill for basil or tarragon – For different herb notes
• Use Greek yogurt instead of part of the mayo – Lighter version
• Top with crumbled bacon – For a smoky twist
• Add a handful of peas or sweet corn – Brightens the dish
• Include a splash of hot sauce in the dressing – For a spicy kick

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Lobster Pasta Salad

• Refrigerate in an airtight container – Best eaten within 2 days
• Keep chilled until serving – Maintains freshness and safety
• Stir gently before serving again – Dressing may settle
• Do not freeze – Mayonnaise-based dressings don’t freeze well

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten Lobster Pasta Salad

• No reheating needed – Best served chilled or at cool room temperature
• Stir lightly before serving – Ensures even flavor distribution
• Add a splash of lemon juice if needed – Brightens flavor after storing

Nutritional Value (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 580mg

A rich, satisfying dish with a perfect balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats.

FAQs

Can I use frozen lobster meat for lobster pasta salad?

Yes, you can use frozen lobster meat. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to remove excess moisture before adding it to the salad.

What pasta shape works best for lobster pasta salad?

Small shapes like shells, elbow macaroni, or orecchiette work best because they hold the dressing and mix well with the lobster and vegetables.

How long does lobster pasta salad last in the refrigerator?

Lobster pasta salad stays fresh for up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I substitute crab or shrimp for lobster in this recipe?

Absolutely. Crabmeat or cooked shrimp make great substitutes if lobster isn’t available, while still keeping the salad delicious and elegant.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Lobster Pasta Salad is the kind of recipe that turns any meal into a special occasion. With its luxurious chunks of lobster, creamy lemon-herb dressing, and fresh crunch from vegetables, this salad is elegant yet easy to prepare. Serve it at your next gathering or enjoy it as a light, refreshing meal—it’s guaranteed to impress!

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