Lobster Fra Diavolo: A Spicy and Sophisticated Seafood Delight

Lobster Fra Diavolo: A Spicy and Sophisticated Seafood Delight

Lobster Fra Diavolo is a classic Italian-American dish that melds the sweetness of fresh lobster with the savory heat of a tangy tomato sauce. This elegant and flavorful dish is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner at home. It combines succulent lobster meat with a spicy, garlicky tomato sauce and is typically served over pasta.

Ingredients:
– 2 live lobsters (about 1 1/2 pounds each)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1 can (28 ounces) whole peeled tomatoes, crushed by hand or with a fork
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 3/4 pound linguine or spaghetti
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:
1. Prepare the Lobsters:
– Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Submerge the lobsters headfirst and cook for about 3 minutes. Using tongs, transfer the lobsters to a large bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, crack the shells and remove the meat from the claws, knuckles, and tails. Cut the meat into bite-sized pieces. Reserve the shells for the sauce.

2. Make the Sauce:
– In a large, deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the reserved lobster shells and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until fragrant. Remove and discard the shells.
– Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until tender and translucent, about 5 minutes.
– Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
– Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet.
– Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
– Let the sauce simmer over low heat for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

3. Cook the Pasta:
– While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine or spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

4. Finish the Dish:
– Add the lobster meat to the tomato sauce and simmer for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
– Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce until well coated.

5. Serve:
– Divide the pasta and lobster mixture among serving plates. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Enjoy your Lobster Fra Diavolo with a glass of chilled white wine for an authentically sumptuous dining experience.