herbed lobster and saffron dip

This dip is an homage to one of my favorite French products, Boursin, a creamy, tangy, herbaceous French cheese that was the epitome of gourmet in North America in the 1970s and still deserves a place at the table. Folding in saffron and chunks of meaty lobster turns my version of the cheese into a chic party dish. Couple any leftovers (if you’re lucky to have them) with good-quality shredded cheddar to make a very special grilled cheese sandwich.

Serves 8-10. Makes 5½ cups.

ingredients

  • ¼ teaspoon packed crumbled saffron threads

  • 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened

  • ½ cup mayonnaise

  • 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

  • 2 garlic cloves, grated or minced

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste

  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste

  • 1 pound cooked lobster meat, cut into 1-inch chunks (about 2¾ cups). Tip: You can purchase cooked lobster meat for this recipe, or cook 3 (1½-pound) lobsters to get 1 pound cooked meat.

  • 6 ounces Parmesan, preferably Parmigiano-Reggiano, finely grated (1½ cups)

  • 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil

  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill

  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh chives

  • Assorted crudités (such as carrots, celery, bell pepper, snap peas, radishes, cherry tomatoes, and endive), waffle potato chips, and/or Ritz crackers for serving

steps

  1. In a small bowl, combine the saffron and 2 tablespoons hot water. Let stand until the water has turned a deep orange, about 10 minutes.

  2. Meanwhile, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl and beat with an electric mixer on medium-high until airy and smooth, 1 to 2 minutes.

  3. Fold the saffron mixture into the cream cheese mixture to combine, then fold in the lobster, Parmesan, and herbs. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

  4. Transfer the dip to a serving dish and chill for at least 30 minutes, or up to 6 hours, to allow the flavors to blend. Let stand at room temperature for 15 to 30 minutes before serving.

  5. Serve the dip with your choice of crudités, chips, and/or Ritz crackers.

Recipe from/inspired by: Antoni in the Kitchen
herbed lobster and saffron dip