Name: Lobster Gnudi: 7 Reasons to Indulge in This Gourmet Dish
Prep time: 12 h
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 13 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 cups semolina; 8 ounces sheep’s milk ricotta; 1/4 cup mascarpone cheese; 2 tablespoons lobster roe; 1 large egg yolk; 1/4 cup finely chopped lobster meat; 3 tablespoons 00 flour; 1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese; 1 1/2 tablespoons panko; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 2 small shallots, thinly sliced; 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 1 sprig thyme; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper; 4 fillets anchovy; 1 1/2 cups dry white wine; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 pound unsalted butter; kosher salt to taste; 3 ounces cooked lobster meat, cut into 1/2 inch pieces; 16 leaves ramp, halved; 1/2 cup blanched English peas; snipped chives and trout roe (optional)

Lobster Gnudi is a luxurious Italian dish that brings a delightful twist to your dining experience. This decadent recipe combines the delicate flavors of lobster with rich ricotta, creating a pasta-like sensation that melts in your mouth. With the creamy bagna cauda sauce elevating each bite, Lobster Gnudi is perfect for special occasions or a gourmet dinner at home. Let’s dive into the world of this exquisite dish!

Why You’ll Love This Lobster Gnudi

This Lobster Gnudi recipe brings numerous benefits that will make it a favorite at your dining table:

Indulges your taste buds with luxurious flavors.
Perfect for special occasions or romantic dinners.
Simple to prepare with readily available ingredients.
Can be customized with variations like Lobster Spinach Gnudi.
Offers a gluten-free alternative to traditional pasta.
Pairs beautifully with a range of sauces, especially Lobster Gnudi with Lemon Butter Sauce.

With its rich taste and gourmet appeal, this dish will surely impress your guests. Plus, it features the delightful combination of Lobster Dumplings and ricotta, making it a standout on any menu.

Lobster Gnudi: 7 Reasons to Indulge in This Gourmet Dish - Lobster Gnudi - main visual representation

Ingredients for Lobster Gnudi

Gather these items:

3 cups semolina (This will give your gnudi a lovely, textural bite.)
8 ounces sheep’s milk ricotta (Offers a rich and creamy base.)
1/4 cup mascarpone cheese (Adds an extra layer of indulgence.)
2 tablespoons lobster roe (Brings a burst of ocean flavor directly to your dish.)
1 large egg yolk (Binds the ingredients for a perfect texture.)
1/4 cup finely chopped lobster meat (Fresh and succulent, it’s the star of the show!)
3 tablespoons 00 flour (Helps with the rolling process without drying out the gnudi.)
1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese (Introduces a savory, cheesy note.)
1 1/2 tablespoons panko (Provides a crunchy element on top.)
1 teaspoon kosher salt (Essential for enhancing flavors.)
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (The base of your flavor-packed sauce.)
2 small shallots, thinly sliced (Adds sweetness and depth.)
2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced (Infuses the sauce with a heavenly aroma.)
1 sprig thyme (Introduces a fragrant herbal note.)
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper (A little heat to balance the richness.)
4 fillets anchovy (They dissolve into the sauce, providing umami without a fishy taste.)
1 1/2 cups dry white wine (Creates a base for the sauce with vibrant acidity.)
1/2 cup heavy cream (Ensures a lush, creamy finish.)
1 pound unsalted butter (Unquestionably, the key to the sauce’s luxuriousness.)
kosher salt (To taste, ensuring each note shines.)
3 ounces cooked lobster meat, cut into 1/2 inch pieces (For a beautiful, gourmet touch.)
16 leaves ramp, halved (Adds a fresh, seasonal element.)
1/2 cup blanched English peas (A pop of color and sweetness.)
snipped chives and trout roe (optional) (Elevates the dish aesthetically and flavor-wise.)

How to Make Lobster Gnudi Step-by-Step

Step 1: Spread the semolina in a 9-by-13 inch baking dish. This will ensure your gnudi don’t stick together as they chill, making for easier handling later.
Step 2: Mix the ricotta, mascarpone, and lobster roe in a stand mixer on medium speed until combined and smooth, about 2 minutes.
Step 3: Add the remaining ingredients to the mixed cheese and blend until smooth for about another 2 minutes.
Step 4: Roll the mixture using your hands into 20 small balls and transfer them to the baking dish with semolina.
Step 5: Chill the gnudi in the refrigerator, uncovered, overnight.
Step 6: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over moderate heat. Add the shallots, garlic, thyme, crushed red pepper, bay leaf, and anchovies.
Step 7: Add the white wine to the pan and let it cook down until reduced by half, about 10 minutes.
Step 8: Simmer the cream along with the reduced wine for about 5 minutes until thickened.
Step 9: Whisk in the butter until melted completely, then strain the sauce through a fine mesh sieve into a medium bowl.
Step 10: Boil the gnudi in a pot of salted, boiling water for about 5 minutes until cooked through.
Step 11: Warm the bagna cauda in a large, deep sauté pan. Add the reserved pasta water, gnudi, peas, lobster, and ramp leaves.
Step 12: Serve the gnudi in 4 shallow bowls garnished with snipped chives and trout roe, if desired.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Lobster Gnudi

Keep these in mind:

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine.
Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Use fresh lobster for best flavor.
For added flavor, consider using lobster stock in the sauce.

Best Ways to Serve Lobster Gnudi

There are several delightful ways to serve Lobster Gnudi:

Pair it with a creamy lemon butter sauce for a refreshing twist.
Top with sautéed spinach or fresh herbs for added color.
Serve alongside a light salad to balance the rich flavors.

How to Store and Reheat Lobster Gnudi

To store Lobster Gnudi, place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, gently warm in a pan over low heat or in the microwave. Remember that it can also be frozen for future meals, making it a great option for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lobster Gnudi

What’s the secret to perfect Lobster Gnudi?

The secret lies in the quality of ingredients. Using fresh lobster and high-quality cheeses ensures a rich, flavorful dish. Remember to allow the gnudi to chill properly before cooking to maintain their shape.

Can I make Lobster Gnudi ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the gnudi and chill them overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for easier cooking when you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Lobster Gnudi?

One common mistake is overcooking the gnudi. Ensure your water is boiling before adding them and check for doneness after about 5 minutes. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the pot to ensure even cooking.

Variations of Lobster Gnudi You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Lobster and Ricotta Dumplings: Replace semolina with a mix of flour for a different texture.
Lobster Gnocchi: Shape the gnudi into traditional gnocchi for a familiar appearance.
Lobster Spinach Gnudi: Add fresh spinach to the mixture for a colorful twist.

These variations highlight the versatility of this Italian dish and cater to different palates.

For more information on the health benefits of lobster, check out this article. If you’re interested in learning more about Italian cuisine, visit Italy Magazine. For tips on cooking with ricotta, see Serious Eats.