If you're looking to impress your dinner guests or simply treat yourself to a luxurious meal, this Lobster and Roasted Red Pepper Bisque is the perfect choice. With its rich, creamy texture and the subtle sweetness of lobster, this dish transforms any ordinary meal into a special occasion.
The star of this dish, lobster, brings a sweet, delicate flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. Roasted red bell peppers add a smoky sweetness that balances the richness of the lobster. Heavy cream creates that silky, luxurious texture that bisques are known for. Seafood stock enhances the overall seafood flavor, while dry white wine adds a subtle acidity to brighten the dish. The combination of onion, garlic, and tomato paste builds a savory base, and a touch of paprika adds a hint of warmth. Finally, butter rounds out the bisque with a rich finish.
This bisque pairs wonderfully with a crusty baguette or a side of garlic bread, perfect for dipping. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the bisque without overwhelming it.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Roast the red bell peppers until their skins are charred and they become tender, which should take about 20 minutes. While the peppers are roasting, bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the lobsters until their shells turn bright red, roughly 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, allow them to cool before you extract the sweet meat.
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent. Stir in the chopped roasted peppers, cooking for a couple more minutes to meld the flavors.
Add the tomato paste, paprika, and white wine to the pot, stirring for about 3 minutes until the wine reduces slightly. Pour in the seafood stock and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cooking for 10 minutes to let the flavors develop.
Using an immersion blender, blend the mixture until it's smooth and velvety. Return the pot to the heat, adding the lobster meat, butter, and cream. Simmer the bisque for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to come together.
Finally, adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice to taste. Serve the bisque hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.