At the Lobster Trap and Lobsters Online, there’s nothing we enjoy more than a delicious seafood party celebrating the bounty of the New England coast. Whether it’s a lobster bake, oyster raw bar, sushi night, fish taco night or any other type of seafood dinner party, we tend to go all-out by sourcing the best quality seafood available, choosing our favorite recipes and appetizers, and nailing the presentation to wow our guests.
After talking with the team about how to best share our favorite seafood parties with our customers, we’ve decided to build this comprehensive Seafood Party Guide to help you plan, source, cook and entertain your guests the next time you decide to enjoy lobsters, oysters, fish and other seafood with your friends.
Lobster is the ultimate indulgence. Serving it at a party feels celebratory and special. But hosting a lobster feast requires more thought than just boiling up a few crustaceans. The side dishes are key to creating a well-rounded menu that properly showcases the lobster.
When planning a lobster party you want sides that add color flavor and texture without overpowering the sweet succulence of the shellfish. I’ve hosted my share of lobster blowouts and learned which dishes delight guests. Read on for my tried-and-true recommendations on what to serve at a lobster party.
Start with Light, Bright Appetizers
Whet your guests’ appetites with a few small bites before bringing on the lobster main course. Fresh salads cool dips and relishes provide refreshing counterpoints to the richness that’s to come.
Shrimp cocktail – Chilled, peeled shrimp served with a sharply seasoned cocktail sauce provides a nice introduction The sweet shrimp and tart horseradish sauce pair beautifully with the flavors of lobster
Ceviche – This fresh seafood salad from Latin America offers a bright, citrusy twist. Dice raw fish and marinate in lime juice, then mix with chopped onion, chiles and cilantro. The acid “cooks” the fish. Spoon ceviche over crunchy tortilla chips for a fun hand-held appetizer.
Guacamole and chips – Creamy, cool guacamole served with tortilla chips makes a friendly crowdpleaser. Let people mix in their own squeeze of lime and shake of hot sauce for customized flavor.
Bruschetta – Grilled bread topped with a lively tomato-basil mixture introduces nice acidity and crunch. Switch it up with avocado bruschetta too.
Prosciutto-wrapped melon – Salty prosciutto complements sweet cantaloupe or honeydew melon. The contrast makes a light yet interesting bite.
Dips and veggie crudités – Round up an assortment of dips like hummus, salsa, spinach dip and ranch dressing. Arrange with carrot and celery sticks, broccoli, grape tomatoes and other raw veggies for dipping.
Refreshing Salads Provide Crisp Contrast
Salads should definitely be part of your lobster party menu. The fresh veggies and greens balance the heartiness of the shellfish. Dress salads lightly to let the natural flavor of the produce shine through.
Garden salad – A mix of leafy greens, shredded carrots, radish slices and cherry tomatoes dressed in a bright vinaigrette offers color and crunch.
Greek salad – Chopped romaine, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, Kalamata olives and feta cheese tossed in an oregano dressing is a flavorful choice.
Waldorf salad – Apples, celery, grapes and walnuts in a creamy dressing is a retro favorite. Toast the walnuts for extra crunch.
Spinach salad – Baby spinach leaves, sliced hardboiled eggs, bacon bits and diced red onion served with a warm bacon vinaigrette is a crowd-pleaser.
Caprese salad – Alternating slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes and whole basil leaves served with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar shows off peak summer produce.
Pasta salad – Chilled pasta tossed with a vinagrette and loads of chopped veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, peas and red onions makes an easy, filling salad.
Warm Bread Adds Comfort
Lobster is seriously enhanced by warm, buttery bread on the side. The bread helps soak up all the delicious juices too.
Rolls – Fluffy yeast rolls with a golden top are perfect for tearing and dipping. Brush with melted butter or garlic butter before serving.
Biscuits – Flaky, savory biscuits are essential for sopping up butter and lobster sauce. Bonus points if you add cheddar, chives or jalapenos.
Cornbread – Sweet cornbread studded with corn kernels naturally complements corn and seafood. Serve squares with honey butter.
Focaccia – This Italian flatbread can be flavored with rosemary, garlic or cheese. Dip in flavorful olive oil blends.
Bagels – Toasted, buttered bagels make a great alongside for lobster rolls. Everything and garlic bagels pair especially well.
Sourdough – Tangy, chewy sourdough bread makes an ideal vessel for lobster salad sandwiches.
Starchy Sides Soak Up Butter
Buttery potatoes, rice and pasta make hearty additions that balance lighter starters. The starch helps temper the richness of lobster too.
Baked potatoes – Russets baked until fluffy, then loaded with butter, sour cream, cheese, bacon and chives can’t be beat.
Mashed potatoes – Smooth, creamy potatoes are comfort in a bowl. Jazz them up with cheese, roasted garlic or horseradish.
Potato salad – Chunky potatoes tossed in a dressing of mayo, mustard, celery, eggs, onion and herbs make a flavorful, filling salad.
Rice pilaf – Fluffy rice mixed with savory onions, herbs and spices absorbs all the lobster goodness.
Risotto – Creamy arborio rice simmered in broth and white wine is elevated by cheese, mushrooms or asparagus.
Pasta – Buttery linguine, spaghetti or bowties drenched in sauce complement lobster’s sweetness.
Corn on the cob – Sweet summer corn dripping with butter enhances the buttery notes in lobster.
Vegetables Add Color and Nutrition
Fresh, seasonal veggies liven up your lobster party spread. Their vibrant hues and flavors add balance next to rich mains.
Grilled vegetables – Drizzle eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, onions and asparagus with olive oil and grill until tender.
Roasted broccoli – The high heat caramelizes and crisps broccoli florets. Toss with garlic, lemon, chili flakes and Parmesan.
Steamed green beans – A quick steaming leaves tender green beans with a brilliant color. Toss with garlic-lemon butter.
Glazed carrots – Simmering baby carrots in a maple syrup glaze gives sweetness to balance savory lobster.
Sauteed spinach – Quickly wilted in olive oil with garlic, this green veggie pairs nicely with seafood.
Asparagus – Grilling or roasting asparagus coaxes out its natural flavor. Drizzle with lemon juice.
Creamed corn – Sweet corn simmers in heavy cream or coconut milk for an indulgent side dish. Garnish with scallions.
Ratatouille – This Provencal stew features eggplant, tomatoes, zucchini, peppers and herbs for Mediterranean flavor.
Don’t Forget Dessert!
You can’t end a feast without something sweet. The best lobster party desserts tend to be fruit-based or creamy. You want a dish that is refreshingly tart but still a bit decadent.
Lemon squares – The sweet-tart lemon curd cuts the richness and complements seafood’s brininess.
Key lime pie – Refreshing key lime pie with whipped cream is the perfect summer dessert.
Strawberry shortcake – Fresh strawberries, softly whipped cream, and tender biscuits make a simple, tasty sweet.
Cheesecake – Rich, thick New York style cheesecake feels elegant but not too heavy.
Fruit salad – A medley of melons, berries, stone fruit, and citrus fruits drizzled in a honey-lime dressing cleanses the palate.
Berry parfaits – Alternating layers of vanilla yogurt and fresh berries in a glass makes an easy build-your-own dessert.
Chocolate-dipped strawberries – For the ultimate bit of decadence, dip juicy berries into melted dark chocolate.
The key to hosting a spectacular lobster party is all in the details. Surround the lobster with a variety of fresh, vibrant dishes to show it in its best light. With this arsenal of appetizers, salads, breads, sides and desserts, you’re ready to throw a lobster feast to remember!
Lobster and Fish Taco Night
Everyone loves tacos, right? Mix up your Taco Tuesday with delicious seafood ingredients that are sure to leave your guests wanting more. Lobster and fish tacos are savory, delectable, and customizable for each guest’s preferences.
You can set out ingredients like chipotle ranch, broccoli coleslaw, and corn so your guests can make their perfect seafood tacos. Everyone will be happy on seafood taco night!
Why You Should Serve Seafood at Your Next Party
Seafood isn’t part of many traditional party menus. So why should you treat yourself and your guests to authentic Maine lobster rolls instead of cheeseburgers? There are many reasons that seafood is the best choice for your party.
If you or your loved ones have moved from New England elsewhere, you’re probably missing out on your favorite seafood. At Lobsters Online, we ship fresh seafood straight off the coast to your doorstep overnight. You don’t have to miss out on delicious creatures of the blue just because you’ve moved inland.
You can give your guests a taste of home again by ordering seafood in bulk. And seafood can put a new and interesting twist on typical party dishes. Everyone has had burgers, hot dogs, and brats at parties before — this time, switch it up with Maine lobster bisque instead.
Seafood can be healthier for you than other party foods. Ingredients like shrimp and scallop contain fewer calories and unhealthy fats than red meat. Fish contain omega-3 fatty acids that are essential for brain and heart health. If you and your guests are health-conscious, a seafood party is the way to go.
So now that you know why seafood parties are superior, you might be wondering how to throw one. What exactly do you serve at a seafood party? We have compiled a list of the perfect ingredients for your authentic seafood party.
There are plenty of tasty options to serve at your seafood party for the seafood lovers in your life. We are here to help you create a diverse menu with delicious recipes for your guests to enjoy. Our fresh Maine lobster meat and other seafood options will make for tasty party dishes and leave a good impression on your guests.
Next time youre throwing a party, consider a
Lobster is a delicacy for many seafood lovers around the world. You can add Maine lobster meat to both hot and cold dishes to satisfy your hungry guests.
There are numerous options for adding lobster to other dishes as well. For example, you can use lobster meat in salads, soups, and sandwiches. Put your leftovers to good use with our authentic lobster meat.
Maine lobster tails are also popular among lobster lovers. Many people like to eat lobster tails roasted with buttery garlic aioli or a similar fatty dipping sauce. The fat content of the sauce balances the sweet flavor of lobster.
You can find Maine lobster roll recipes to serve for your appetizer or as a decadent main dish. Lobster rolls can win over even the pickiest eaters with their savory ingredients. We recommend following our Traditional Maine Lobster Roll recipe for the most authentic Maine lobster-tasting experience.
For those who enjoy the salty taste of Cape Cod oysters, you can make them a quick-bite appetizer.
Many upscale seafood restaurants will serve oysters before the main dish to prime their guests’ appetites. You can do the same at your next dinner party by ordering a dozen or two fresh Cape Cod oysters.
If you don’t have time to pre-shuck, include oyster knives to make the eating experience more convenient for your guests. You want to make sure they can get the meat of the oyster out successfully. Most people like to gulp down the entire oyster in one bite, making this option perfect for a starter snack.
Shucking your own oysters is a great way to provide a memorable meal for your guests. Heres a list of our favorite
Tuna is packed full of protein and can be used in almost any recipe. Many people include tuna in salads, dips, and roll-ups for appetizers and main courses alike.
Our Ahi Tuna Steaks are perfect for traditional red meat lovers and picky eaters. Tuna steaks would be a great option for your main course at your seafood party. You can cook them according to your guests’ preferences and keep everyone full for the rest of the day.
Other fish fit well with these seafood party options. We offer cod, haddock, salmon, and swordfish for your party needs. These fish each have unique flavor profiles and can be used as main dishes. Salmon is full of beneficial nutrients that promote brain health and heart health. Plus, it’s just plain tasty!
Add lemon to your fish dishes to balance the taste of the ocean with citrusy flavors. Your guests will enjoy the savory goodness of our authentic fish shipped fresh from New England. Check out fish recipes for inspiration on how to prepare and arrange your main courses so that your guests will leave happy and full.
Themes always make parties more fun. They allow you to focus on specific foods that you and your guests enjoy. Need some inspiration for your seafood party theme? Here are some ideas.
It’s time to move beyond burgers and brats — step up your BBQ game with grilled seafood. Maine lobster tails are the perfect barbecue seafood dish because they absorb any flavors you add to them. Grilled lobster tails are a favorite healthy dish among seafood lovers and barbecue enthusiasts alike.
If you want to incorporate traditional barbecue foods like red meat and store-bought snacks, consider throwing a BBQ seafood party. This gives your non-seafood-loving guests options as well. You may even introduce some of them to the deliciousness of authentic New England seafood!
Many fancy restaurants are themed around seafood. You can host your own fancy fish dinner at home using our fresh dinner packages.
With options for two, four, and six guests, you are sure to please your loved ones with an upscale fish dining experience. Your guests will feel like they are eating somewhere expensive while spending quality time with you in your own home. What’s not to love about fancy fish dinners?
Sushi night is perfect for a girls’ night in or a casual Friday dinner. Many of our fresh seafood options will taste great in sushi dishes. Add some fun to the experience by making a sushi bar where your guests can add their favorite ingredients.
Along with seasoned rice and raw or cooked fish, other popular sushi ingredients include avocado and cucumber. Set up a do-it-yourself sushi buffet and go to town!
Rolling your own sushi is a great way to enjoy tuna, salmon and other popular fish fillets. Learn
Do you love fried fish? Fish fry events are popular in southern states, but they can happen anywhere. Fry our delicious fresh fish and serve it with chips (the British kind) to create the best fish fry experience for your guests.
This is an easy seafood party to throw; all you need is the fish, the fryer, and the sides. Fried fish is a wonderful savory dish that reminds many people of their childhoods.
How to throw a lobster themed party
FAQ
What side dishes go well with lobster?
- Asparagus: A classic and simple pairing, roasted or steamed.
- Corn on the cob: Whether grilled, boiled, or steamed, it adds a sweet and savory contrast to the lobster.
- Steamed Broccoli: A light and healthy option.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness can be a welcome contrast to the lobster’s flavor.
- Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed with butter and garlic.
- Baby Glazed Carrots: A sweet and savory root vegetable.
What appetizers go well with lobster?
Charcuterie boards. These trendy appetizers are a perfect entertaining addition to a lobster dinner. Make your charcuterie board your own by adding cheeses, crackers, grapes, jams, prosciutto, honey, jam, olives, nuts, and more!
What does lobster fest consist of?
Grilled Lobster, Shrimp and Salmon** – Tender Maine lobster tail, shrimp and Atlantic salmon, finished with a brown butter sauce. Served with choice of two …
What beverage pairs well with lobster?
Rum and ginger beer: A rum and ginger ale is a classic cocktail that pairs well with the smoky and savoury flavours of grilled lobster. Choose a light-bodied rum, such as Bacardi or Cruzan, and pair it with a crisp ginger beer.
What is a good side dish for lobster?
Find crowd-pleasing side dishes for lobster such as corn on the cob, macaroni and cheese, Caesar salad, clam chowder, and more. Get the lobster side dish ideas here.
What to eat with lobster?
Potatoes are drizzled with olive oil, sprinkled with herbs and seasonings, roasted to crispy perfection, then topped with Cheddar cheese. Potato salad pairs perfectly with lobster. This creamy mayonnaise-based recipe is flavored with garlic and lots of mustard. Looking for a lighter lobster side dish that still packs a flavorful punch?
What to serve with grilled lobster tail?
Like luscious risotto without all the fuss and stirring, this creamy parmesan rice with lemon and parsley is the perfect side to all of your best lobster recipes. It’s a great addition to your grilled lobster tail dinner and (bonus!) it makes delicious leftovers, as well.
What to eat with Lobster Thermidor?
Pesto pasta is a fitting side dish for indulgent seafood dishes such as lobster Thermidor. This pasta preparation is light and simple enough to let the lobster take center stage and offers nutrition and satisfaction in one easy side dish. You can also top it with grilled or sauteed shrimp for easy weeknight dinners.
What to eat at a restaurant?
Try these crowd-pleasing side dishes that deserve a place on the plate with grilled, boiled, or steamed whole lobster, or lobster tails. You’ll find everything you need to round out a fine dining dinner, including bright-tasting salads and vegetable sides, creamy pasta and potato dishes, and the yummiest garlic cheese biscuits.
What desserts go with lobster?
New England has some of the finest desserts to serve with your lobster, from the classic Maine blueberry pie and watermelon slices to fudgy, gooey brownies. We’ve compiled a list of over 30 desserts to serve at the end of your lobster dinner. See our best desserts to pair with lobster.