01/04/2025
Happy National Spaghetti Day -Chef-Jeff Johnson
Grilled Basil Butter Lobster
Ingredients
2 live lobsters (about 1.5 pounds each)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Prepare the Lobsters
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lobsters and boil for about 5-7 minutes until they turn bright red. Remove them and let them cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, carefully split the lobsters in half lengthwise and remove the tomalley (green part) if desired.
Make the Basil Butter
In a bowl, mix the softened butter, chopped basil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Grill the Lobsters
Brush the cut sides of the lobsters with the basil butter. Place them cut side down on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes. Flip them over, baste with more basil butter, and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the lobster is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
Serve
Serve the grilled lobsters with extra basil butter and lemon wedges on the side.
Creamy Pesto Spaghetti
Ingredients
8 oz spaghetti
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup store-bought or homemade basil pesto
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Spaghetti
Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
Make the Creamy Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and pesto. Stir until well combined and heated through. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine
Add the drained spaghetti to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
Serve
Plate the creamy pesto spaghetti and top with the grilled basil butter lobster. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
