Lobster Thermidor is an ideal classic French dish that combines rich and creamy flavors with succulent lobster meat.
It’s a decadent treat that’s perfect for special occasions or when you just want to indulge in a little luxury. It’s no wonder that it’s a favorite among seafood lovers worldwide.
But what to serve with lobster thermidor? You need something that complements the flavors without overpowering them.
Fret no more! In this blog post, we’ve rounded up some quick and amazing side dishes that are guaranteed to take your lobster thermidor experience to the next level.
I personally loved these sides along with lobster thermidor, and I am sure you will also enjoy it. So, let us dig in.
What is lobster thermidor? What does lobster thermidor taste like?
Lobster Thermidor is a classic French dish consisting of lobster meat in a creamy sauce, often flavored with mustard, white wine and herbs.
The mixture is then usually stuffed back into the lobster shell or placed into an oven-proof dish.
It’s typically served with grated cheese on top and then grilled until golden brown.
The taste of Lobster Thermidor is rich and creamy, with hints of seafood sweetness from the lobster balanced by herbal notes from the mustard and herbs used to season the sauce.
Best Sides to serve with lobster thermidor
1. Sautéed Asparagus with Lemon Butter
Asparagus is a perfect light and healthy side dish that pairs perfectly with the rich and decadent flavors of Lobster Thermidor.
Simply sauté the asparagus in a little lemon butter until tender and serve alongside the lobster.
2. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are an ideal classic side dish that never goes out of style.
Add some roasted garlic to your mashed potatoes to give them a rich and savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the lobster.
3. Baked Mac and Cheese
Baked mac and cheese is a comforting side dish that’s sure to impress your guests. The creamy, cheesy goodness of the mac and cheese perfectly complements the rich flavors of the lobster.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Sweet and smoky, grilled corn on the cob is a perfect side dish for lobster thermidor. The charred flavor of the corn pairs well with the succulent lobster meat.
Discover More: Best Side Dishes to Serve with Corn on the Cob
5. Caesar Salad
A light and refreshing Caesar salad is another great side dish choice for Lobster Thermidor. The crisp lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons are the perfect balance to the rich and creamy lobster.
6. Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is a classic side dish that’s creamy and indulgent. It’s an excellent choice for Lobster Thermidor since the flavors balance each other well.
7. Roasted Broccoli
Roasted broccoli is a healthy and savory side dish that goes well with Lobster Thermidor. The caramelized flavor of the broccoli is both satisfying and satisfying.
8. Grilled Asparagus
Grill asparagus to perfection with a little salt, pepper and olive oil, then top it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
The smoky, slightly charred flavor of grilled asparagus pairs perfectly with the richness of Lobster Thermidor.
9. Garlic Butter Shrimp
Garlic butter shrimp is a great side dish if you’re serving Lobster Thermidor to a crowd. It’s easy to make, and the buttery, garlicky flavor is the perfect complement to the lobster.
10. Bacon-Wrapped Scallops
Bacon-wrapped scallops are a decadent side dish that pairs perfectly with Lobster Thermidor. (Recipe)
The smoky, salty flavor of the bacon accompanies the sweetness of the scallops to create an unforgettable flavor.
11. Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are a great choice because they’re healthy, delicious, and easy to prepare.
You can choose from the multiple options, such as zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Drizzle some olive oil and seasoning over them, and they’re ready to serve.
12. Roasted Cauliflower
Roasted cauliflower adds a unique flavor to your meal and pairs well with the rich flavors of lobster thermidor.
Simply toss some cauliflower florets in olive oil, sprinkle some seasoning, and roast them in the oven for around 20 minutes.
13. Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a classic delicious, and healthy alternative to regular fries.
They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a perfect choice to serve with lobster thermidor.
14. Seafood Bisque
Seafood bisque is a rich and flavorful soup that pairs perfectly with lobster thermidor.
The combination of flavors is simply divine, and it’s guaranteed to leave you and your guests satisfied.
Explore More: Creative Ideas for Home Cooks to Serve with Lobster Bisque
15. Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf adds a unique flavor and texture to your meal, making it an excellent choice to pair with lobster thermidor.
Simply cook your favorite rice pilaf recipe and serve it alongside your meal.
16. Roasted Butternut Squash
Roasted butternut squash is a nutritious and delicious side dish that pairs well with lobster thermidor.
Toss some squash with olive oil and seasoning, and roast them in the oven for around 30 minutes. Your guests will love it!
What are the best flavors to go with lobster thermidor?
Lobster thermidor is an ideal classic French dish that combines creamy cheese, butter and herbs with tender cooked lobster.
The rich flavor of lobster is complemented nicely by a variety of complementary flavors. Here are some of the best flavors to go with lobster thermidor:
Herbs like tarragon, parsley, and chives are great options for adding brightness and freshness to the rich dish.
For a bit more complexity, try incorporating spices such as cayenne pepper, paprika, or turmeric.
A squeeze of lemon juice will provide a refreshing acidic component in contrast to the richness of the sauce.
For an even tangier flavor profile, consider adding capers or olives; they both have briny notes that go wonderfully with seafood dishes like lobster thermidor.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try muddling some garlic into your sauce for an extra kick. A few splashes of white wine can also help balance out all the different flavors in one harmonious bite.
For an additional layer of sweetness and depth, incorporate diced tomatoes or mushrooms into your recipe.
You can even give it a unique twist by adding nuts; almonds work particularly well with seafood dishes like this one.
Find Out More: Best Side Dishes to Serve with Lobster Mac and Cheese
How do you jazz up lobster thermidor?
To jazz up lobster thermidor, you can add exciting flavors like herbs and spices such as garlic, paprika, parsley, thyme or tarragon.
You can also opt for a richer sauce with brandy or white wine.
If you’re looking for a more complex flavor profile without compromising the traditional shape and texture of the dish, try adding some diced vegetables like mushrooms or onions to the mix.
For an even more indulgent version of this classic recipe, top it off with some fresh grated Parmesan cheese before baking.
How do you display lobster thermidor on a platter?
Lobster Thermidor is an ideal classic French dish that can make an impressive presentation on a platter.
To display it, begin by arranging the lobster halves in the center of the platter.
Place a generous spoonful of Thermidor sauce over each lobster half, and scatter diced vegetables, such as carrots or mushrooms, around the lobsters for color and flavor.
For added garnish, arrange lemon wedges and parsley leaves on the platter.
Finally, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese to complete the presentation. When served, Lobster Thermidor is sure to turn heads and leave everyone asking for more!
Learn More: World’s Best Sauces To go with Lobster Ravioli
Wrap Up on what to serve with lobster thermidor
In conclusion, lobster thermidor is a dish that deserves the best side dishes to go along with it.
These quick and amazing side dishes are guaranteed to take your lobster thermidor experience to the next level.
Whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing or rich and creamy, these side dishes are sure to satisfy you.
So, next time you’re planning a lobster thermidor dinner party or even hosting a family dinner, consider these amazing side dishes to make your meal extra special!
FAQs
How much lobster thermidor per person?
Lobster thermidor is a classic and luxurious dish, typically served with servings of about 7 ounces per person.
If you’re serving a large crowd, you may want to adjust the serving size to 4-5 ounces per person.
It’s important to consider that lobster thermidor is a rich dish, so even smaller portions can be very satisfying.
For an extra touch of elegance, serve it in individual ramekins or cocottes.
How is Lobster Thermidor traditionally presented?
Lobster Thermidor is traditionally served as a rich and creamy seafood entrée.
It is made with lobster meat cooked in a creamy sauce mixed with mushrooms, brandy, sherry, and herbs.
The mixture is then baked in a dish and topped with cheese and breadcrumbs.
Lobster Thermidor is usually presented in the same dish that it was cooked in, highlighting the intricate flavors of the dish for an elegant presentation.
It can also be served along with rice or pasta, which helps to absorb some of the sauce and bring out more intense flavor notes from the lobster meat.
Lobster Thermidor can be garnished with fresh parsley or chives for added color and flavor.
What salad goes with lobster thermidor?
Lobster thermidor is a classic French dish, usually eaten with a side of creamy mashed potatoes.
For a light accompaniment to this decadent meal, a crisp and colorful salad would be the perfect choice.
A simple garden salad with fresh greens like arugula or spinach, along with tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion, provides just the right combination of crunch and flavor to balance out the richness of lobster thermidor.
To add more texture and flavor, consider adding some roasted vegetables such as bell peppers or squash. Or try some toasted nuts for added crunch.
You could also dress up your salad with a zesty vinaigrette or creamy Caesar dressing.
What wine goes with lobster thermidor?
When pairing wine with lobster Thermidor, you’ll want to consider the rich flavors and creamy sauce of the dish.
Here are a few wine options that can complement the flavors of lobster Thermidor:
1. Chardonnay
A rich and buttery Chardonnay can work well with the creamy sauce and the richness of the lobster.
Look for a medium to full-bodied Chardonnay with flavors of tropical fruits, oak, and balanced acidity.
2. Champagne or Sparkling Wine
The effervescence and acidity of Champagne or sparkling wine can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
Opt. for a dry or extra-dry Champagne or sparkling wine with crisp apple and citrus notes.
3. White Burgundy
A white Burgundy, particularly one made from the Chardonnay grape, can be a delightful pairing.
Look for a wine with a good balance of acidity, flavors of ripe fruits, and hints of oak.
4. Viognier
This aromatic white wine, with its rich, full-bodied texture and flavors of stone fruits, honeysuckle, and spices, can complement the creamy flavors of lobster Thermidor.
5. Rosé
A dry or off-dry rosé with good acidity can be a versatile choice. Look for a rosé with flavors of red berries and a hint of minerality.
Remember, personal preference plays a significant role in wine pairing, so feel free to experiment and choose a wine that you enjoy and complements your taste preferences.
What restaurants serve lobster thermidor?
The availability of lobster Thermidor on restaurant menus can vary based on the location and the specific restaurant.
Lobster Thermidor is a classic French dish, so you may have better luck finding it at French or seafood-focused restaurants.
Here are a few types of restaurants where you might find lobster Thermidor:
1. Fine Dining Restaurants
Upscale restaurants that specialize in French or seafood cuisine are more likely to offer lobster Thermidor as a specialty dish.
These establishments often feature a variety of classic and contemporary dishes.
2. Seafood Restaurants
Restaurants that focus on seafood and shellfish may include lobster Thermidor on their menu.
These establishments may offer a range of lobster preparations, including Thermidor.
3. French Restaurants
Given that lobster, Thermidor is a classic French dish, French restaurants, especially those with a traditional or upscale focus, are more likely to have it on their menu.
4. Steakhouse Restaurants
Some steakhouse restaurants with an extensive seafood selection may offer lobster Thermidor as an option for those seeking a luxurious seafood dish.
It’s important to note that restaurant menus can change frequently, so it’s a good idea to check with specific restaurants in your area to see if they serve lobster Thermidor.
Additionally, you may want to consider calling ahead to inquire about the availability of the dish, as it may be a seasonal or limited-time offering in some establishments.