There’s something undeniably enchanting about the sweet-tart zing of a fresh kiwifruit paired with the luxurious touch of succulent lobster. I first stumbled upon this delightful combination during a summer gathering, where an experiment turned into a surprising hit among friends. Imagine, if you will, a vibrant Kiwifruit Boat topped with Lobster and Scallion Mayonnaise Amuse Bouche—a dish that not only wows the palate but also brings a burst of color to the table. This quick and elegant recipe is perfect for entertaining, transforming a simple gathering into a gourmet experience that feels both special and effortless. With every bite, you’re treated to an exquisite balance of flavors and textures, making it a standout choice for any soirée. So, let’s dive in and create a little culinary magic together!
Why you’ll love Kiwi Boat topped with Lobster?
Freshness: The vibrant zing of ZESPRI® Kiwifruit harmonizes beautifully with the luxurious lobster, resulting in a dish that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
Effortless Elegance: Impress your guests with minimal effort—this amuse bouche is as quick to prepare as it is stunning to present.
Versatile Flavor: Swap lobster for shrimp or crab for a delicious twist without losing the fantastic taste.
Balanced Textures: Enjoy the delightful contrast between the soft, creamy lobster and the crisp, juicy kiwi that keeps each bite exciting.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether hosting a chic dinner party or a casual get-together, this dish elevates every moment into something special.
Kiwi Boat topped with Lobster Ingredients
For the Kiwifruit Boat
• ZESPRI® Kiwifruit – Offers a refreshing tang that beautifully complements the lobster’s sweetness.
• Lobster – The star of the show, providing a luxurious protein that elevates this amuse bouche.
For the Scallion Mayonnaise
• Mayonnaise – Acts as the creamy base; select a high-quality brand for the best flavor.
• Scallions – Bring a mild onion flavor that enhances the overall taste profile; use both white and green parts for color.
For Cooking
• Clarified Butter – Helps to steam the lobster while enhancing its natural sweetness; vital for that rich flavor.
• Chili Sauce – Adds a hint of heat to balance the freshness; adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
Optional Substitutions
• Shrimp – A cost-effective alternative to lobster that still captures the essence of this dish.
• Avocado – A creamy, dairy-free substitute for mayonnaise if you’re looking to switch things up.
With these ingredients ready, you’re on your way to making a stunning Kiwi Boat topped with Lobster and Scallion Mayonnaise Amuse Bouche that’s sure to impress!
How to Make Kiwi Boat topped with Lobster
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Prepare Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure they’re at room temperature to guarantee optimal emulsification of your mayonnaise.
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Make Clarified Butter: In a small saucepan, gently simmer the butter over low heat. Skim off the milk solids that rise to the top until you achieve a clear liquid—this will enhance the lobster’s natural flavor.
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Cook Lobster: Steam the lobster tails in a steamer basket for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are opaque and firm. Once cooked, remove them and toss gently in the clarified butter.
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Prepare Scallion Mayonnaise: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and finely chopped scallions until smooth. Make sure it’s creamy and well-blended to bring everything together.
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Build Amuse Bouche: Halve the kiwifruit and scoop out a small amount of the flesh to create a boat. Fill each half with generous pieces of the lobster, add a dollop of scallion mayonnaise, and finish with a tiny dot of chili sauce for a kick.
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Serve: Arrange your elegant kiwifruit boats on a beautiful platter. Serve immediately to your guests and watch their eyes light up with delight!
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Kiwi Boat topped with Lobster?
Creating the perfect dining experience begins with thoughtful pairings that elevate your delicious amuse bouche.
- Crispy Crostinis: These light, crunchy bites make a great contrast to the creamy lobster, providing a satisfying crunch.
- Herbed Quinoa Salad: A summery salad featuring fresh herbs and vegetables complements the dish’s freshness while adding a nourishing element. A cool and zesty salad pairs beautifully with the rich lobster, enhancing the overall meal experience.
- Sparkling White Wine: A crisp, refreshing sparkling wine balances the richness of the lobster while lifting the vibrant flavors of the kiwi. Choose a brut style for the best pairing!
- Microgreens Garnish: Delicate microgreens add a fresh, peppery note that elevates the visual appeal and overall flavor profile of your amuse bouche.
- Lemon Zest Risotto: This creamy risotto infused with citrus creates an exquisite backdrop for the lobster’s sweetness, making each bite memorable.
- Mango Salsa: The tropical sweetness of fresh mango salsa brings out the kiwifruit’s zing, creating a delightful symphony of flavors that sings summer.
- Chilled Cucumber Soup: Serve this refreshing and cool soup as a light appetizer to cleanse the palate before enjoying the lobster dish, making the meal feel vibrant and lively.
- Chocolate Mousse: End the evening on a sweet note with a rich chocolate mousse; the sweetness contrasts against the savory amuse bouche, delighting your guests’ senses.
- Elderflower Sparkler: This floral and citrusy drink offers a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory flavors, making it a delightful accompaniment to your elegant meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Kiwifruit Boats topped with Lobster and Scallion Mayonnaise are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy elegant flavors without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the clarified butter and lobster up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in airtight containers to maintain freshness. The scallion mayonnaise can also be made ahead—just store it covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to impress your guests, simply assemble the boats by halving the kiwifruit, filling them with lobster, and adding the mayonnaise with a dash of chili sauce. This way, you can enjoy a gourmet experience with minimal effort, ensuring each bite is just as delicious as if it were freshly made!
How to Store and Freeze Kiwi Boat topped with Lobster
Fridge: Store any assembled Kiwifruit Boats in an airtight container for up to 3 hours. The kiwifruit loses texture quickly, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh.
Components Storage: Keep leftover lobster, clarified butter, and scallion mayonnaise separately in the fridge for up to 2 days; they can be reassembled later for quick enjoyment.
Freezer: While not recommended for the assembled dish, you can freeze any unused lobster (properly wrapped) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: If you’ve stored components, gently reheat lobster in a pan with a little clarified butter on low heat until warmed through—avoid overcooking!
Expert Tips for Kiwi Boat topped with Lobster
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the scallion mayonnaise to emulsify properly, creating a creamy texture without lumps.
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Lobster Substitution: Lobster can be quite pricey; for a budget-friendly option, consider using shrimp while still retaining the luxurious feel of this amuse bouche.
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Balance the Flavors: Always taste the mixture before serving. Adjust the amount of chili sauce to suit your heat level preference for a perfectly balanced dish.
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Freshness is Key: Use fresh ZESPRI® Kiwifruit and quality ingredients to elevate the overall taste. Avoid overripe kiwi to maintain that crisp profile.
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Presentation Matters: When assembling, ensure the lobster is presented beautifully on the kiwifruit. A well-plated dish makes for an eye-catching appetizer that enhances your dining experience.
Variations & Substitutions for Kiwi Boat topped with Lobster
Feel free to make this vibrant amuse bouche your own with these exciting twists and swaps.
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Shrimp Substitute: Use shrimp instead of lobster for a lighter version while maintaining great flavor.
Swapping lobster for shrimp creates a delightful, budget-friendly option that’s just as tasty! -
Crab Meat: Replace lobster with fresh crab for a sweet, tender bite that everyone will love.
The flaky texture of crab offers a luxurious change that pairs beautifully with kiwifruit. -
Avocado Twist: Swap scallion mayonnaise for creamy avocado to create a dairy-free delight.
This substitution not only makes it lighter but adds a rich, buttery flavor to every bite. -
Herbed Mayonnaise: Mix in fresh dill or basil into your scallion mayonnaise for vibrant herbal notes.
Herbs can elevate the flavors and add a refreshing element that complements the seafood. -
Citrus Zing: Add a squeeze of lime or lemon juice to the scallion mayonnaise for added brightness.
This extra tang pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of kiwifruit and enhances the dish’s freshness. -
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of Sriracha into the mayonnaise for an exciting heat.
This little twist will tantalize your taste buds, creating a balance of spice and sweetness. -
Nutty Crunch: Top with crushed macadamia nuts for a delightful crunch that complements the dish’s textures.
Adding that nutty richness will elevate the presentation and give it a unique twist. -
Chili Oil Drizzle: Instead of chili sauce, use a drizzle of chili oil for a more sophisticated heat profile.
Chili oil brings not just heat, but also a fabulous richness that rounds out the entire flavor experience.
Kiwi Boat topped with Lobster and Scallion Mayonnaise Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe Kiwifruit?
Absolutely! Look for kiwifruit that feels slightly soft to the touch but not mushy—this indicates optimal ripeness. Avoid any fruit with dark spots all over, as those can signal overripeness. Fresh ZESPRI® Kiwifruit will have a vibrant green color beneath the skin, showcasing its sweet and tangy essence.
How should I store leftover Kiwi Boats topped with Lobster?
For the best taste, assemble Kiwifruit Boats close to service time. However, if you need to store them, keep any assembled boats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 hours. The kiwifruit loses its texture quickly, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. Store leftover lobster, clarified butter, and scallion mayonnaise separately for up to 2 days.
Can I freeze leftover lobster for later use?
Very! If you have any unused lobster from your Kiwifruit Boat, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag, and it will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, then gently reheat in a pan over low heat with a touch of clarified butter until warmed through.
What if my scallion mayonnaise does not emulsify properly?
No worries! If your mayonnaise is not coming together, try adding a teaspoon of water or lemon juice to help break it down, and whisk vigorously. If it remains too thin, consider blending it in a food processor, starting with a small amount, and gradually adding the other ingredients. Ensuring all components are at room temperature is crucial for a smooth emulsion.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies with this recipe?
Absolutely! Keep in mind that lobster can trigger shellfish allergies, so serve caution to guests with allergies. Additionally, while kiwifruit is safe for most pets, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian before sharing human food with your furry friends. If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute lobster with shrimp or use avocado instead of mayonnaise for a dairy-free option.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep components ahead of time! Cook and chill the lobster, prepare the clarified butter, and whip up the scallion mayonnaise all in advance. Store each component in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to impress your guests, just assemble the Kiwifruit Boats just before serving to ensure they come together beautifully and maintain their fresh taste.
Delicious Kiwi Boat Topped with Lobster and Scallion Mayonnaise
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by gathering all your ingredients and ensure they’re at room temperature.
- In a small saucepan, gently simmer the butter over low heat and skim off the milk solids until you achieve a clear liquid.
- Steam the lobster tails for about 8-10 minutes until opaque and firm, then toss gently in the clarified butter.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and finely chopped scallions until smooth.
- Halve the kiwifruit and scoop out a small amount to create a boat; fill with lobster and a dollop of scallion mayonnaise.
- Arrange your kiwifruit boats on a platter and serve immediately.