Decorative Dips: Strawberry Lobsters
This is not a fish dip
I am officially in the summer spirit, and it’s time to bring back my Decorative Dips series! This one’s a little love letter to coastal New England, where I grew up spending countless summers by the ocean. There’s something so special about summer in the northeast. After a long, dark winter, the world wakes up again once the warm weather hits. The food gets brighter, the parties move outside, and the days are long. Honestly, we deserve it.
I’ve been seeing this strawberry lobster everywhere on the internet lately, but mostly as a cake decoration. Here’s my version, where we swap the cake for a whipped basil and balsamic goat cheese. As a bonus, this also acts as edible art for your tablescape!
Whipped Basil and Balsamic Goat Cheese with a Strawberry Lobster
I had way too much fun with this one. Starting my Saturday morning slicing strawberries and arranging them into the shape of a lobster was very peaceful. The dip itself plays on my favorite strawberry pairings: goat cheese, basil and balsamic glaze. I added a hint of sweetness with some honey and brightened it all up with lemon juice. The result is a creamy, tangy and fresh dip, perfect for summer hosting. The strawberry lobster moment was inspired by my one of my favorite food stylists, @celineyrs, who always makes fruit look so magical.
RECIPE
8 oz goat cheese (softened)
⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil (adjust based on consistency)
1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
1 tablespoon lemon juice
½ tablespoon honey
2 tablespoons fresh chopped fresh basil leaves (plus more for garnish)
Kosher salt and cracked black pepper to taste
4-6 strawberries
Crackers for serving
TO MAKE
In food processor, combine goat cheese, greek yogurt, olive oil, balsamic glaze, lemon juice, honey, basil, salt and pepper until you get a frosting-like consistency.
Spread in a shallow bowl and top with strawberries to create a lobster (tutorial below)
Garnish with flaky salt and basil, serve with crackers.
LOBSTER TUTORIAL
NEW CHEESE CLASS - JUNE 5TH - NEW YORK, NY
I’m coming out of hibernation for a workshop in Brooklyn, NY at the iconic Barclays Center!! This will be a very special class, in collaboration with Brooklyn Wine Club.
When: Thursday, June 5th 2025 at 7PM
TICKETS HERE - Use the code “FRIENDS15” for 15% off!
Event Includes:
A 1.5-hour immersive workshop featuring step-by-step charcuterie board building using my signature Cheese By Numbers method.
A personal board-building kit with premium ingredients: artisanal cheeses, cured meats, seasonal produce, dips, crunch, and garnishes—yours to take home.
A curated tasting flight of 6 wines, hand-selected by the Brooklyn Wine Club team to pair beautifully with each element of your experience.
A guided cheese tasting to explore flavors, textures, and pairing principles.
Food styling and photography tips to elevate your next gathering or picnic spread.
An elevated setting at JetBlue at The Key—one of Barclays Center’s newest premium spaces, designed to inspire creativity and connection.
Hope to see you there!