Maine Lobster Salad from The Capital Grille features tender chunks of fresh Maine lobster, mixed with crisp celery and a light, citrus-infused dressing, served over a bed of crisp greens for a refreshing and elegant seafood dish.
Equipments
- Large pot (for boiling lobster)
- Tongs
- Large bowl (for mixing salad)
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Citrus juicer or reamer
- Small bowl (for dressing)
- Whisk (for dressing)
- Salad spinner (optional, for greens)
- Salad serving platter or plates
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) fresh Maine lobster
- 1 cup celery, finely diced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 6 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon, chopped
- Olive oil (optional, for drizzling)
Fresh Maine lobster is the star ingredient in this salad, so choosing high-quality, sustainably sourced lobster will make a significant difference in flavor and texture. Celery should be finely diced to provide a crisp contrast to the tender lobster meat. The citrus elements, including freshly squeezed lemon juice and grated lemon zest, brighten the dressing and enhance the seafood's natural sweetness. Mayonnaise forms the creamy base of the dressing, while Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang that balances the flavors. Your fresh herbs, such as chives and tarragon, contribute aromatic complexity that elevates this classic Maine Lobster Salad from The Capital Grille copycat menu.
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil.
- Add fresh Maine lobster to boiling water; cook until shells turn bright red (about 8–10 minutes).
- Remove lobster with tongs and let cool.
- Crack lobster shells and remove meat; chop into bite-sized chunks.
- In a large bowl, combine chopped lobster, diced celery, chives, and tarragon.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour dressing over lobster mixture; gently fold with a mixing spoon or spatula until combined.
- Wash and dry salad greens (use salad spinner if desired).
- Arrange mixed greens on a serving platter or individual plates.
- Spoon dressed lobster salad over greens.
- Drizzle lightly with olive oil (optional).
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Maine Lobster Salad from The Capital Grille copycat menu highlights the succulent, tender chunks of fresh Maine lobster combined with crisp celery and a zesty, citrus-infused dressing. If fresh Maine lobster is unavailable, you can substitute with high-quality frozen lobster tails or cooked shell-on lobster meat, ensuring to thaw or cook properly to maintain texture. When mixing the dressing, adjust the lemon juice and Dijon mustard according to your taste preference to achieve the right balance of tanginess and creaminess. Using freshly chopped herbs like chives and tarragon elevates the flavor profile, but you can substitute with mild tarragon vinegar or fresh dill if necessary. Your salad greens should be well-drained and crisp, so consider using a salad spinner to remove excess water and prevent sogginess in the final dish.
Tips
Boiling the fresh Maine lobster for exactly 8 to 10 minutes ensures the meat remains tender and juicy, avoiding overcooking which can make it tough. Use a citrus juicer to extract fresh lemon juice, enhancing the salad's bright flavor while maintaining your dressing's smooth texture by whisking mayonnaise, mustard, and seasonings thoroughly. When mixing the lobster salad, fold gently to preserve the lobster chunks intact and to evenly distribute herbs like tarragon and chives. Your crisp mixed salad greens should be thoroughly washed and spun dry to prevent a soggy base once the dressed lobster is added.
Nutritions
Maine Lobster Salad provides a rich source of lean protein from 2 lbs of fresh Maine lobster, supporting muscle health and satiety. The 1 cup of crisp celery adds dietary fiber and essential vitamins like vitamin K and potassium, promoting digestive health. The light citrus-infused dressing, made with fresh lemon juice and Dijon mustard, offers antioxidants and a flavorful boost without excess calories. Your meal is balanced with mixed greens, contributing additional fiber and micronutrients for a nutrient-dense, low-calorie seafood option.
Storage
Store leftover Maine lobster salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent odor absorption. For best quality, consume within 24 to 48 hours to enjoy tender lobster meat and crisp celery textures. Keep your lobster salad chilled until serving to ensure the citrus-infused dressing and greens stay vibrant and flavorful.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute cooked crab meat or cooked shrimp for the fresh Maine lobster to create a different but equally delicious seafood salad. For a lighter dressing, replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, which adds creaminess with fewer calories. Try adding a splash of white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar to the dressing for extra tang and brightness. Using fresh dill instead of tarragon can provide a slightly different, yet complementary herb flavor profile for your salad.
Allergies
Maine Lobster Salad from The Capital Grille contains shellfish, which is a common allergen that can cause severe reactions in individuals with shellfish allergies. The mayonnaise used in the dressing may contain eggs, another potential allergen to be aware of. If you have allergies to shellfish or eggs, it's important to avoid this dish or consult with the restaurant about ingredient substitutions.
Why this recipe?
The Capital Grille's Maine Lobster Salad menu is praised for its fresh, tender lobster meat combined with crisp vegetables and a light, tangy dressing that perfectly balances flavors. The dish highlights the premium quality of Maine lobster, sourced directly from the Atlantic coast, ensuring succulent texture and authentic taste. Its presentation is elegant yet approachable, making it a favorite for those who appreciate upscale seafood. You'll find recreating this salad at home rewarding, as it allows you to experience a restaurant-quality dish with wholesome ingredients and customizable seasoning.