Union Cantina Lobster Tacos Recipe

Experience the refreshing flavors of the coast with this sublime Union Cantina Lobster Tacos recipe. A delightful combination of succulent lobster meat, creamy avocado, fresh pico de gallo and a zesty lime roasted poblano cream, all bundled up in a corn tortilla. This is not just a taco, it's an adventure for your taste buds.

Photos of Union Cantina Lobster Tacos Recipe

Most ingredients in this recipe are commonly found in a well-stocked home kitchen - avocado, lime, sour cream, and the like. However, lobster meat and poblanos might not be so readily available. Lobster meat can be found in the seafood section of your supermarket, while poblanos - a mild chili pepper - are typically found in the fresh produce section.

Ingredients for Union Cantina Lobster Tacos

Lobster meat: Juicy and tender, this forms the main protein of our taco. Corn tortillas: These form the base of our taco, giving a nice contrast to the succulent lobster. Pico de gallo: A fresh tomato salsa that adds a zesty lift to the taco. Avocado: Creamy and rich, avocado provides a nice contrast to the other elements. Lime roasted poblano cream: This zesty cream sauce gives the taco an extra kick. Old bay seasoning: A classic seafood seasoning to enhance the flavor of the lobster. Cilantro micro greens: These add a fresh, herbaceous note to round off the taco.

One reader, Curran Durkin says:

The Union Cantina lobster tacos recipe is a game-changer! The combination of succulent lobster, zesty pico de gallo, and lime roasted poblano cream is a flavor explosion. The fresh ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions make it a must-try for any taco enthusiast. It's a definite winner for any gathering!

Curran Durkin

Techniques Required for Making Union Cantina Lobster Tacos

How to prepare lime roasted poblano cream: Blend roasted poblano pepper, light sour cream, fresh lime juice, kosher salt, and black pepper in a food processor until smooth.

How to season lobster meat: Season chilled lobster meat with old bay seasoning and fresh ground black pepper to taste.

How to heat tortillas: Heat the tortillas directly over an open flame until they are warm and slightly charred.

How to assemble lobster tacos: Top each tortilla with avocado, pico de gallo, seasoned lobster meat, lime roasted poblano cream, and garnish with cilantro or micro greens.

How To Make Union Cantina Lobster Tacos

These lobster tacos inspired by Union Cantina are made with seasoned lobster, avocado, and pico de gallo. Drizzle poblano sour cream for more hints of tang.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 5 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

20ozlobster meat,from 2½ lb Maine lobster, steamed and chilled
8corn tortillas
8tbsppico de gallo,homemade or store bought
4ozavocado,(1 small) diced
8tsplime roasted poblano cream
1tspold bay seasoning
cilantro or cilantro micro greens,for garnish
lime wedges,for serving

For the Lime Roasted Poblano Cream:

¼poblano pepper,with seeds, lightly sprayed with oil, roasted in the oven over 350 degrees F for 12 minutes
1cuplight sour cream
2tbspfresh lime juice
¼tspkosher salt,plus ⅛ tsp
black pepper,to taste

Instructions

For the Lime roasted poblano cream, place all ingredients in food processor until blended well.
Season chilled lobster meat with old bay and fresh ground black pepper, to taste.
Heat the tortillas directly over the flame.
To assemble, top each tortilla with 1/2 oz avocado, 1 tablespoon pico de gallo, 2 1/2 oz lobster meat, 1 tsp of poblano cream and garnish with cilantro or micro greens.

Nutrition

Calories: 391.56kcal
Fat: 16.46g
Saturated Fat: 7.19g
Trans Fat: 0.02g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.29g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.01g
Carbohydrates: 34.02g
Fiber: 5.62g
Sugar: 3.47g
Protein: 29.30g
Cholesterol: 213.75mg
Sodium: 827.13mg
Calcium: 263.70mg
Potassium: 700.30mg
Iron: 1.54mg
Vitamin A: 110.09µg
Vitamin C: 17.15mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Union Cantina Lobster Tacos Recipe

When heating your corn tortillas over the flame, make sure to flip them frequently to prevent them from burning. A slightly charred tortilla can add a smoky flavor to your lobster tacos, enhancing the overall taste. Additionally, when seasoning your lobster meat, let it sit for a few minutes after adding the old bay seasoning and pepper. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful taco.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Lobster Tacos

Plan ahead: Prepare a shopping list and gather all the ingredients and equipment needed before starting the recipe to save time and minimize interruptions.

Prep in advance: Pre-cut vegetables, marinate meats, and prepare sauces ahead of time to streamline the cooking process and reduce overall preparation time.

Multi-task: Utilize downtime, such as waiting for water to boil, to complete other recipe steps simultaneously, maximizing efficiency in the kitchen.

Organize your workspace: Keep your cooking area clean and organized, ensuring that all necessary tools and ingredients are easily accessible, saving time and reducing stress during the cooking process.

Use kitchen gadgets: Employ time-saving tools like food processors, blenders, and slow cookers to expedite the preparation and cooking process, making meal preparation more efficient.

Substitute Ingredients For Union Cantina Lobster Tacos Recipe

lobster meat - Substitute with shrimp: Shrimp can be used as a substitute for lobster meat in this recipe. It has a similar texture and flavor, and it can be a more budget-friendly option.
corn tortillas - Substitute with flour tortillas: If you prefer a different texture or flavor, flour tortillas can be used as a substitute for corn tortillas in this recipe.
pico de gallo - Substitute with salsa verde: Salsa verde can be used as a substitute for pico de gallo, providing a tangy and slightly spicy flavor to the tacos.
avocado - Substitute with guacamole: Guacamole can be used as a substitute for sliced avocado, adding a creamy and flavorful element to the tacos.
lime roasted poblano cream - Substitute with chipotle crema: Chipotle crema can be used as a substitute for lime roasted poblano cream, offering a smoky and spicy flavor to complement the tacos.
old bay seasoning - Substitute with cajun seasoning: Cajun seasoning can be used as a substitute for old bay seasoning, providing a similar blend of spices with a slightly different flavor profile.
cilantro or cilantro micro greens - Substitute with parsley: If you prefer a milder herb flavor, parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro or cilantro micro greens in this recipe.
poblano pepper - Substitute with anaheim pepper: Anaheim pepper can be used as a substitute for poblano pepper, offering a similar mild heat and flavor to the roasted cream.
light sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for light sour cream, providing a creamy and tangy element to the lime roasted poblano cream.

How to Beautifully Present Lobster Tacos

Elevate the plating: Arrange the lobster tacos on a sleek, modern plate, ensuring that each element is showcased beautifully. The vibrant colors of the pico de gallo and avocado, along with the succulent lobster meat, should be the focal point of the dish.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Use the lime roasted poblano cream to create elegant, artistic drizzles on the plate, adding a touch of finesse and flavor to the presentation.
Garnish with precision: Carefully place the cilantro or cilantro micro greens on the tacos, ensuring that each piece is strategically positioned to enhance the visual appeal of the dish.
Utilize symmetry and balance: Arrange the tacos in a symmetrical manner, creating a visually appealing balance on the plate. Each taco should be positioned with precision to create a harmonious overall presentation.
Highlight the ingredients: Emphasize the quality of the lobster meat by ensuring it is the star of the dish. Arrange the tacos in a way that draws attention to the succulent, flavorful lobster, showcasing its premium nature.

Essential Tools for Making Union Cantina Lobster Tacos

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for blending, chopping, pureeing, and mixing ingredients. It's great for making sauces, salsas, and creams.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients and marinating the lobster meat. It's important to use a non-reactive material such as stainless steel or glass when working with acidic ingredients like lime juice.

Storing and Freezing Union Cantina Lobster Tacos

If you have any leftover lobster tacos, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the tortillas, lobster meat, pico de gallo, avocado, and lime roasted poblano cream separate until ready to assemble and eat.
To reheat the lobster meat, place it in a skillet over medium heat and cook until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave the lobster meat for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through.
If you want to freeze the lobster meat for later use, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw the lobster meat in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and assembling the tacos.
The lime roasted poblano cream can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Give it a good stir before using it to ensure that it's well combined.
It's best to store the avocado and pico de gallo separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The avocado can be stored for up to 2 days, while the pico de gallo can be stored for up to 3 days.
If you have any leftover corn tortillas, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. To reheat the tortillas, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them for 15-20 seconds, or until warm and pliable.

How To Reheat Leftover Lobster Tacos

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover lobster tacos on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. Heat them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through. This method helps to preserve the texture of the tortillas and prevent them from becoming soggy.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover lobster tacos. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the tacos in the basket. Cook them for 3-5 minutes, or until they are heated through and the tortillas are crispy.
For a quick and easy method, you can use your microwave to reheat the leftover lobster tacos. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high for 30-60 seconds, or until they are heated through. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the tortillas to become tough and rubbery.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your leftover lobster tacos, you can reheat them on a grill or in a skillet. Preheat the grill or skillet to medium-high heat and place the tacos on the grates or in the pan. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and the tortillas are slightly charred.
For a more authentic flavor, you can reheat your leftover lobster tacos on a comal, which is a traditional Mexican griddle. Preheat the comal over medium-high heat and place the tacos on the surface. Cook them for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and the tortillas are slightly charred.

Interesting Fact About Lobster Tacos

The lobster tacos recipe is a popular dish at Union Cantina. It's a delicious fusion of flavors, combining the sweetness of lobster meat with the tangy pico de gallo and creamy lime roasted poblano cream. This dish offers a unique twist on traditional tacos, showcasing the versatility of lobster in Mexican cuisine. Lobster is a rich source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a healthy and indulgent choice for taco fillings. The lime roasted poblano cream adds a zesty kick to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Lobster tacos are a delightful treat for seafood enthusiasts and Mexican food lovers alike.

Is Making Union Cantina Lobster Tacos at Home Cost-Effective?

This lobster tacos recipe may not be the most cost-effective for a household due to the high price of lobster. However, the luxurious and indulgent nature of this dish makes it a worthwhile splurge for special occasions. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $60-$80. The exquisite flavors and premium ingredients justify the expense, earning this recipe a solid 8/10 rating for its taste and presentation.

Are Union Cantina Lobster Tacos Healthy or Unhealthy?

The union cantina lobster tacos recipe is a delightful blend of flavors, but it may not be the healthiest option due to a few ingredients. Here's a breakdown of the recipe's health aspects:

Lobster meat is a lean protein source, low in calories and rich in essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and selenium.
Corn tortillas are a healthier alternative to flour tortillas, as they are lower in calories and contain more fiber.
Pico de gallo is a fresh, low-calorie salsa that provides vitamins and minerals from the tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
Avocado is a nutrient-dense fruit, offering healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. However, it is also calorie-dense.
The lime roasted poblano cream, made with light sour cream, adds a tangy and creamy element to the tacos. While using light sour cream reduces the calorie and fat content, it still contributes to the overall calorie count of the dish.
Old Bay seasoning and fresh cilantro add flavor without significantly impacting the nutritional value.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of lime roasted poblano cream or replace it with a Greek yogurt-based sauce to lower the calorie and fat content while maintaining a creamy texture.
Use a smaller portion of avocado or replace it with a lower-calorie alternative, such as sliced radishes or cucumber, to add crunch and freshness.
Incorporate more vegetables into the tacos, such as shredded cabbage, carrots, or bell peppers, to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
Opt for grilled or baked lobster meat instead of sautéed or fried to reduce the added fat and calories.
Serve the tacos with a side salad or a light, vegetable-based soup to create a well-rounded, nutrient-dense meal.

Editor's Thoughts on Union Cantina Lobster Tacos Recipe

This recipe for Union Cantina lobster tacos is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The lime roasted poblano cream adds a zesty kick, complementing the succulent lobster meat perfectly. The use of fresh ingredients such as pico de gallo and avocado enhances the dish's vibrancy. The incorporation of old bay seasoning infuses a depth of flavor, while the charred corn tortillas provide a satisfying crunch. Overall, this recipe offers a tantalizing combination of seafood and Mexican-inspired elements, making it a standout dish for any occasion.

Enhance Your Union Cantina Lobster Tacos Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Guacamole: A creamy and flavorful guacamole with a hint of lime and cilantro, perfect for dipping or topping the lobster tacos.

Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob smothered in a tangy and spicy mayo, topped with crumbled cotija cheese and a sprinkle of chili powder.

Mango Salsa: A refreshing and sweet salsa made with ripe mango, red onion, jalapeno, and fresh lime juice, adding a tropical twist to the lobster tacos.

Churros: Crispy and sugary churros, served with a side of warm chocolate dipping sauce for a sweet ending to the meal.

Similar Recipes to Union Cantina Lobster Tacos

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Mango Salsa Chicken: This mango salsa chicken recipe is a refreshing and tropical twist on traditional chicken dishes. The sweet and tangy flavors of the mango salsa perfectly complement the juicy and tender chicken.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of this tomato basil soup. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and velvety cream will warm you up from the inside out.

Berry Cobbler: Satisfy your sweet tooth with this delicious berry cobbler. The combination of juicy berries and buttery, golden crust is the perfect way to end any meal.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Union Cantina Lobster Tacos

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a mouthwatering appetizer by stuffing large mushroom caps with a flavorful mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a delicious start to any meal.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Whip up a tropical-inspired appetizer by coating jumbo shrimp in a crispy coconut breading. Fry until golden brown and serve with a tangy dipping sauce for a delightful burst of flavor.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of a warm, gooey chocolate lava cake. The contrast between the molten center and the slightly crisp exterior creates a truly irresistible dessert experience. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful combination of hot and cold textures.

Banana Foster: Satisfy your sweet tooth with a luscious banana foster dessert. The caramelized bananas, rich buttery sauce, and a hint of rum create a luxurious and comforting treat. Serve it over a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream for a delightful contrast of flavors and temperatures.

Why trust this Union Cantina Lobster Tacos Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delectable experience with lobster as the star ingredient. The pico de gallo adds a burst of freshness, while the lime roasted poblano cream brings a zesty kick. The use of avocado provides a creamy texture, perfectly complementing the succulent lobster meat. The incorporation of old bay seasoning infuses a harmonious blend of flavors, ensuring a delightful culinary journey. With meticulous attention to detail, this recipe promises a tantalizing fusion of Mexican cuisine and seafood delicacies, earning the trust of all who savor its exquisite taste.

Want to share your own lobster taco recipe or discuss tips for making this Union Cantina classic at home? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How can I make this recipe more spicy?

You can add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the lobster meat before assembling the tacos. You can also increase the amount of poblano cream for an extra kick.

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

Yes, you can definitely use flour tortillas if you prefer. They will provide a slightly different texture and flavor, but they will work well with the lobster and other ingredients.

Can I substitute the lobster with another type of seafood?

Absolutely! You can use shrimp, crab, or even grilled fish as a delicious alternative to lobster. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and seasonings accordingly.

How can I make the lime roasted poblano cream less spicy?

To reduce the spiciness of the poblano cream, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the poblano pepper before roasting it. You can also use less of the roasted poblano pepper in the cream or increase the amount of sour cream to mellow out the heat.

Can I prepare any part of this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the lime roasted poblano cream and pico de gallo ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. You can also season the lobster meat in advance and keep it chilled until you are ready to assemble the tacos. However, it's best to heat the tortillas and assemble the tacos just before serving to ensure the best taste and texture.