Our Favorite Lobster Recipes Will Take Your Summer Seafood Feast to the Next Level (2024)

Sweet, rich, and satisfying lobster can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether it's mixed with mayonnaise and served on a roll, stars in a creamy bisque, or is grilled and served with melted butter and lemon wedges, the crustacean is a summertime delicacy. In this collection of lobster recipes, we're highlighting a handful of the most beloved ways to cook and serve lobster. From beginners to long-time seafood lovers, there's something here for everyone.

Before you dive in, you'll want to know what to look for when buying lobster from your local market or fishmonger. You can buy live lobsters and steam them at home, or purchase lobster tails separately online or at the seafood counter. When buying a live lobster, look for one that feels heavy, has two long antennae, and has a hard shell without any cracks. It should be lively and alert when pulled from the tank. To ensure peak freshness, cook the shellfish within 24 hours of bringing it home.

One of the most popular ways to cook a live lobster is by boiling it. To do so, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and insert the lobsters headfirst and cook until the shells are bright, which takes about 11 minutes. You can also steam them by adding a steaming rack to a large pot and filling it with a couple of inches of water. For this method, let the lobsters cook for about 12 to 16 minutes. Once you've cooked the lobsters, it's time to deshell them—Martha has a fool-proof method for this.

Now that you know the basics, put your knowledge to use by making our favorite lobster recipes. From appetizers to mains, we're sharing a wide range of ways to use the delicacy.