This Ina Garten Lobster Pasta Salad Recipe is fresh and luxurious, which includes lobster meat and lemon zest. It’s a restaurant-quality dish, ready in just 25 minutes.
Jump to RecipeIna Garten Lobster Pasta Salad Recipe Ingredients
- 1 pound cooked lobster meat, cut into bite-sized chunks
- ¾ pound small pasta (shells or elbow macaroni)
- 1 cup celery, finely diced
- ½ cup scallions, thinly sliced
- ¾ cup good-quality mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or parsley)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
How To Make Ina Garten Lobster Pasta Salad
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside to cool.
- Mix the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, dill, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, add cooled pasta, lobster meat, celery, and scallions. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to combine.
- Chill the salad: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with extra dill or lemon wedges before serving. Serve cold.

Recipe Tips
- Can I use frozen lobster meat? Yes, just thaw and drain well before adding.
- What pasta shape works best? Shells or elbows hold the dressing nicely.
- How to make it lighter? Swap half the mayo with Greek yogurt.
- Can I prepare it ahead of time? Yes, it’s even better after a few hours in the fridge.
- What can I use instead of dill? Fresh parsley or tarragon also work well.
What To Serve With Lobster Pasta Salad
This light and elegant salad pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled asparagus or zucchini
- Buttery crackers or crostini
- Fresh fruit salad
- Chilled white wine or rosé
- Tomato basil soup
How To Store Lobster Pasta Salad
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freeze: Not recommended, as the mayo and pasta do not freeze well.
Lobster Pasta Salad Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 460 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Sodium: 740mg
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.
FAQs
Can I use crab or shrimp instead of lobster?
Yes, crab or cooked shrimp are great alternatives.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Only if made with gluten-free pasta.
How long can it sit out?
No longer than 2 hours at room temperature.
Can I add extra veggies?
Yes, diced cucumber or cherry tomatoes are good additions.
Try More Recipes:
- Ina Garten Mustard Chicken Salad Recipe
- Ina Garten Artichoke Salad Recipe
- Ina Garten Lobster Potato Salad Recipe
Ina Garten Lobster Pasta Salad Recipe
Course: SaladsCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy6
servings15
minutes10
minutes460
kcalA light, lemony lobster pasta salad tossed with fresh herbs and mayo—perfect for summer lunches or elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
-
1 lb lobster meat, chopped
-
¾ lb small pasta
-
1 cup celery, diced
-
½ cup scallions, sliced
-
¾ cup mayonnaise
-
2 tbsp lemon juice
-
1 tbsp lemon zest
-
2 tbsp dill or parsley
-
1 tsp kosher salt
-
½ tsp black pepper
Directions
- Cook pasta until al dente. Rinse under cold water.
- Whisk mayo, lemon juice, zest, dill, salt, and pepper.
- Combine pasta, lobster, celery, and scallions.
- Toss with dressing and chill 30 minutes.
- Garnish and serve cold.
