Canned lobster can be an extremely versatile and delicious ingredient. While fresh lobster is ideal, premium canned lobster provides a convenient and affordable alternative to make lobster recipes at home.
From classic appetizers to main dishes, side dishes, and more, there are so many tasty ways to eat canned lobster. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from buying and preparing canned lobster to recipe ideas for making the most of this seafood treat.
Buying High-Quality Canned Lobster
Canned lobster can vary greatly in quality and price. Here’s what to look for when purchasing:
-
Whole lobster meat -chunks of lobster from the tail, claws, and body provide the best texture
-
Wild-caught – for sustainable sourcing and superior flavor
-
Salt added – a bit of salt enhances the natural sweetness of lobster
-
BPA-free can – avoids potential health risks from liner chemicals
Some of the top brands include East Coast Gourmet, Crown Prince, and Ocean’s. Paying a little more for premium, sustainable canned lobster is worth it for the best flavor and texture.
How to Prepare Canned Lobster
Preparing canned lobster is simple. Just open the can and drain off any excess liquid. Give the lobster pieces a quick rinse to remove any remaining shell fragments.
If the lobster pieces are on the small side, chopping or rough chopping into bite-size pieces helps them better integrate into recipes.
For warm preparations, quickly sauté the lobster in butter or olive oil before adding to dishes to boost flavor and provide a fresher taste.
Now let’s look at 10 delicious ways to eat and enjoy canned lobster at home!
1. Lobster Rolls
A New England classic! Mix chopped lobster with mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and diced celery. Serve in a grilled, buttered hot dog bun.
2. Lobster Mac and Cheese
Take mac and cheese to the next level by folding in chopped lobster. Use bite-size pasta shapes like elbows or shells to hold the sauce and lobster chunks.
3. Lobster Salad
Simply mix canned lobster with mayonnaise, lemon juice, diced celery, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Serve over greens or on a sandwich.
4. Lobster Dip
Blend together canned lobster, cream cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning. Serve with crackers or chips.
5. Lobster Quiche
Stir chopped lobster into a quiche filled with cheese, eggs, and sautéed onion or leek. It adds luxury to a breakfast or brunch favorite.
6. Lobster Ceviche
Marinate canned lobster in lemon or lime juice, olive oil, diced tomato, avocado, and cilantro for a fresh, tangy spin.
7. Lobster Pasta
Toss chopped lobster with hot pasta, olive oil or butter, garlic, lemon zest, parsley, and Parmesan. Simple yet elegant.
8. Lobster Tacos
Mix canned lobster with pico de gallo, avocado, lime juice, cilantro, and chipotle pepper for amazing fish tacos.
9. Lobster Thermidor
Sauté lobster in sherry and mustard, then blend with egg yolks, cream, and Parmesan cheese for a decadent side dish.
10. Lobster Omelet
Jazz up your morning omelet by adding a few spoonfuls of chopped lobster. Creamy, indulgent, and full of protein.
With canned lobster on hand, you can easily elevate everyday meals. Get creative with sandwiches, soups, pastas, eggs, and more. Canned lobster brings gourmet flair to home cooking!
Canned Lobster Cooking Tips
-
Look for canned lobster labeled “cooked” for ready-to-eat convenience.
-
Drain and rinse the lobster before use to remove excess liquid and shells.
-
Rough chop larger pieces so they integrate nicely into recipes.
-
Sauté canned lobster in butter or oil briefly to boost flavor.
-
Undercook any pasta, rice, or veggies that will be baked or simmered further with lobster.
-
Add lobster at the end of cooking since it only needs to warm through.
Recipes to Make with Canned Lobster
Here are a few more easy canned lobster recipe ideas to inspire you:
-
Lobster bisque – smooth, creamy, and elegant soup
-
Lobster risotto – luxurious twist on classic risotto
-
Lobster scrambled eggs – quick protein-packed breakfast
-
Lobster grilled cheese – buttery, indulgent sandwich
-
Lobster arancini – fried risotto balls stuffed with lobster
-
Lobster cream sauce – for seafood pasta or vegetables
-
Lobster cheesecake – rich appetizer with lobster in cream cheese filling
With canned lobster in the pantry, you’re never far from an amazing seafood meal!
FAQs About Canned Lobster
Is canned lobster already cooked?
Yes, most canned lobster is pre-cooked so it’s ready to eat or heat up in recipes. Always check the label to confirm.
Is frozen lobster better than canned?
Fresh is best, but between frozen and canned, premium canned lobster usually has better texture and flavor. Canned also stores longer.
How long does canned lobster last?
Properly stored in the pantry, unopened canned lobster will last 2-3 years. Once opened, transfer remaining lobster to an airtight container and refrigerate up to 4 days.
Can you eat canned lobster straight from the can?
Absolutely! Drain off any liquid first. Canned lobster makes an easy snack, sandwich filler, or appetizer right out of the can.
With its convenience, great taste and versatility, canned lobster can elevate home cooking any night of the week. Follow this guide to enjoy restaurant-worthy seafood dishes using canned lobster.
