Looking for an impressive seafood dish that's perfect for your next dinner party? Look no further than Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp! This flavorful recipe is sure to wow your guests, and best of all, it's surprisingly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic grilling know-how, you can create a dish that's as impressive to look at as it is to eat. And with 1130 calories per serving, you can indulge in all that delicious flavor guilt-free.
But Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp isn't just a tasty dish - it's also packed with nutritional benefits. Lobster and shrimp are both excellent sources of protein, and they're full of vitamins and minerals like selenium, zinc, and vitamin B12. Plus, cooking on a cedar plank infuses the dish with a subtle smoky flavor that enhances the natural taste of the seafood. So if you're looking for a healthy and delicious seafood dish, this recipe is the perfect choice.
In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp, from its history to its nutritional benefits to its perfect pairing.
The Ingredients Used in the Dish
To make Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 2 lobster tails, split in half
- 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cedar plank, soaked in water for at least 4 hours
Once you've gathered your ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!
The Cooking Process of Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp
Here's how to make Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Place the soaked cedar plank on the grill and let it heat up for a few minutes.
- Arrange the lobster tails and shrimp on the cedar plank, flesh side up.
- Brush the butter mixture onto the lobster tails and shrimp.
- Cover the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the lobster and shrimp are cooked through.
- Remove the cedar plank from the grill and let the seafood rest for a few minutes before serving.
And that's it! In just a few simple steps, you'll have a delicious seafood dish that's sure to impress your guests.
Serving Suggestions for Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp
Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few serving suggestions to get you started:
- Serve the seafood alongside grilled vegetables like asparagus or zucchini.
- Serve with a side salad topped with a light dressing.
- Pile the seafood on top of a bed of rice pilaf or quinoa for a heartier meal.
No matter how you choose to serve it, Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp is sure to be a hit at your next dinner party!
Nutritional Value of the Dish
As we mentioned earlier, Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp is a healthy and nutritious dish. Here's a breakdown of its nutritional profile per serving:
- calories: 1130
- Protein: 70g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 93g
- Sodium: 2137mg
As you can see, this dish is a great source of protein and healthy fats. And because it's relatively low in carbs, it's a good option for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
Possible Variations on the Recipe
While we love the classic recipe for Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp, there are plenty of ways to mix things up and put your own spin on the dish. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Add some spice by brushing the seafood with a spicy garlic butter.
- Try grilling some lemon slices alongside the seafood and serve them as a garnish.
- Swap out the shrimp for scallops, or add some clams or mussels to the mix for a seafood extravaganza.
Feel free to get creative and experiment with new flavors and ingredients - you never know what delicious combinations you might discover!
The History of Cedar-Plank Cooking
Cedar-Plank cooking is a method that has been used for generations by indigenous communities in North America. The technique involves cooking food directly on a cedar plank, which imparts a distinct smoky flavor to the dish. Traditionally, cedar planks were used to cook salmon, but the method has since been adapted to other types of seafood, including lobster and shrimp. Today, Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp is a popular dish at many seafood restaurants, and it's easy to see why - the smoky flavor and tender texture make for a truly delicious meal.
Best Places to Order Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp
While Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp is a dish that you can easily make at home, there's something special about trying it at a restaurant. Here are a few of the best places to order Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp:
- Red Lobster - this seafood chain is known for its flavorful Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp, which is served with a side of rice pilaf.
- Legal Sea Foods - this upscale seafood restaurant offers a variety of Cedar-Plank dishes, including Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp, which is served with grilled asparagus.
- McCormick & Schmick's - this restaurant is known for its fresh seafood, and their Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp is a standout dish. It's served with garlic mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables.
No matter where you try it, Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp is sure to be a memorable meal.
Cooking Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp at Home
While Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp might seem like a fancy restaurant dish, it's actually quite easy to make at home. Here are some tips for making the perfect Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp in your own kitchen:
- Soak the cedar plank for at least 4 hours before grilling - this will prevent it from catching fire on the grill.
- Cook the seafood with the flesh side up to ensure even cooking and optimal flavor absorption.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the seafood is cooked through - the internal temperature should reach 145°F
- Let the seafood rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to settle.
With these tips in mind, you'll be cooking up perfect Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp in no time!
Pairings for Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp
Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp pairs well with a variety of wines and sides. Here are a few recommendations to help you create the perfect meal:
- Wine: For a white wine pairing, try a crisp and refreshing Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. If you prefer red wine, a light and fruity Pinot Noir or Gamay would be a good choice.
- Sides: Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp pairs well with a variety of sides. Grilled asparagus, roasted vegetables, and rice pilaf are all great options. For something a little more decadent, try serving the seafood alongside a rich and creamy lobster bisque.
With these pairings, you're sure to create a meal that's both delicious and memorable.
Tips for Perfectly Grilling Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp
Grilling Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp might seem intimidating, but with a few tips and tricks, you can create a dish that's restaurant-quality. Here are some tips for perfectly grilling Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp:
- Make sure your grill is hot before you put the cedar plank on - this will help prevent the seafood from sticking to the plank.
- Season the seafood liberally with salt and pepper before grilling to enhance its natural flavor.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different flavors and seasonings - try adding a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning for extra flavor.
- Let the cedar plank cool completely before discarding it to avoid any potential fire hazards.
With these tips, you'll be grilling Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp like a pro in no time!
Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp is a dish that's sure to impress your guests, but it's also surprisingly easy to make at home. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic grilling know-how, you can create a meal that's as delicious as it is beautiful.
5 Frequently Asked Questions about Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp
1. What is Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp?
Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp is a dish made by grilling lobster and shrimp on a cedar plank. The dish is often seasoned with a variety of spices and herbs to enhance the flavor of the seafood.
2. How many calories are in one serving of Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp?
One serving of Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp contains 1130 calories.
3. How is Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp cooked?
Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp is cooked by placing the seafood on a cedar plank and grilling it over an open flame. The cedar plank helps to infuse the seafood with a smoky flavor, while also keeping it moist and tender.
4. What dishes can be paired with Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp?
Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp pairs well with a variety of sides, including grilled vegetables, rice pilaf, and steamed asparagus. A crisp white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, can also complement the dish nicely.
5. Can Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp be prepared in advance?
Cedar-Plank Lobster & Shrimp is best prepared and served immediately, as the cedar plank helps to keep the seafood hot and juicy. However, if you need to prepare the dish in advance, you can grill the seafood and then reheat it in the oven before serving.