Florida lobster season is upon us, and with it comes the irresistible temptation of fresh, succulent lobster. While a classic boil is always satisfying, let’s dive into a variety of creative lobster recipes that showcase the sweet, delicate flavor of Florida’s prized catch.

2024 Florida Lobster Season: Dates and Regulations

Here’s a quick rundown of the key regulations to keep in mind:

• Season: Officially runs from Aug. 6-March 31.
• Size Limit: The carapace (hard shell) must be at least 3 inches long, measured from the notch between the head and body to the rear edge of the body shell. Undersized lobsters must be returned to the water unharmed.
• Bag Limit: Six spiny lobsters per person per day.
• Egg-bearing females: It’s illegal to harvest egg-bearing females. Other eggbearing species of lobster that are prohibited are Palinuridae, Scyllaridae, and Synaxidae. Spiny, slipper, and furry lobsters respectively.
• Recreational Lobster Permit: a recreational saltwater fishing license and a lobster permit are required to harvest spiny lobster.

Some other prohibitions: Lobster must be landed in whole condition. No person shall harvest or attempt to harvest spiny lobster using any device that will or could puncture, penetrate, or crush the exoskeleton (shell) or the flesh of the lobster

Now that we’ve got the legalities covered, let’s get cooking!

5 Delicious Lobster Recipes Beyond Boiling

1. Lobster Tacos

Ingredients: (1 serving)

• 1 cup lobster meat
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 3 tacos shell
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1/2 cup Pico de Gallo
• 1/4 cup cilantro-lime crema
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Bring a coastal twist to your taco night with succulent lobster meat. Lightly sauté chopped lobster in butter with minced garlic and a squeeze of lime juice. Fill tacos shell with the lobster mixture and top with shredded cabbage, pico de Gallo, and a drizzle of cilantro-lime crema. Garnish with fresh cilantro and an extra lime wedge for an irresistible, easy-to-make treat.

2. Lobster Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked lobster chunks
• 1 cup grated cheese (for topping)
• 1 cup grated cheese (for recipe)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Ingredients for your favorite baked mac and cheese recipe (adjusted for 1-2 servings)

Elevate this comforting classic by adding chunks of freshly cooked lobster. Prepare your favorite baked mac and cheese recipe, but reserve 1 cup of grated cheese for the topping. Gently fold in the lobster pieces before baking, and sprinkle the reserved cheese and breadcrumbs over the top. Bake until golden and bubbly for a decadent dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

3. Lobster Rolls

Ingredients: (1-2 servings)

• 1 pound lobster meat
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
• A pinch of salt and pepper
• 4 split-top hot dog buns
• Butter for grilling
• Coleslaw or chips (optional, for serving)

Inspired by the coastal delis of New England, lobster rolls are a quick and delicious way to enjoy lobster. Toss lobster meat with a light dressing made from mayonnaise, lemon juice, finely chopped celery, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Fill split-top hot dog buns with the mixture and butter-grill the buns to perfection. Serve with a side of coleslaw or chips for a delightful meal.

4. Lobster Risotto

Ingredients: (1-2 servings)

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 4 cups chicken or seafood stock
• 1 cup cooked lobster meat, cut into chunks
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
• Crisp white wine (optional, for serving)

Indulge in this lobster risotto for a sumptuous dining experience. Start by making a basic risotto with Arborio rice, onion, garlic, white wine, and chicken or seafood stock. Just before the risotto reaches its final creamy consistency, fold in generous chunks of lobster meat and a handful of grated Parmesan cheese. Finish with fresh parsley and a splash of lemon juice to enhance the dish’s rich flavors. Serve it with a crisp white wine for a truly elegant meal.

5. Lobster Benedict

Ingredients: (1-2 servings)

• 2 English muffins, split and toasted
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup hollandaise sauce
• 6 oz lobster meat, butter-poached
• Chopped chives, for garnish
• Paprika, for garnish

Take your brunch game to the next level with lobster Benedict. Begin by preparing traditional eggs Benedict: toasted English muffins topped with poached eggs and hollandaise sauce. Elevate this classic by adding a layer of warm, butter-poached lobster meat on each muffin half before placing the poached egg and drizzling with velvety hollandaise sauce. Garnish with chives and a sprinkle of paprika for an impressive, restaurant-worthy dish right at home.

Bonus Tip: Grilling spiny Florida lobster adds a delightful smoky flavour that elevates this exquisite seafood.

To prepare, split the lobster in half lengthwise and brush the meat lightly with olive oil, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs. Place the lobster halves shell-side down on a preheated grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, basting occasionally with melted butter or a garlic-herb mixture. The meat should turn opaque and firm, indicating it’s ready. Serve it hot off the grill with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a truly mouthwatering experience.

Next time you have a craving for this delicacy, don’t just stick to boiling – try out one of these creative recipes and take your taste buds on a flavorful journey beyond the boil.

Don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen and explore all the delicious possibilities that this coveted seafood has to offer. And remember, always follow regulations and sustainable practices to ensure that our oceans continue to thrive for future generations. Happy cooking!

Note: Always check with local authorities for any changes or updates to regulations before harvesting spiny lobsters.

Download our FishVerify app today for the latest regulations and easy fish identification.