Ingredients

4 lobsters, 1 1/4 pounds each

2 ruby-red or pink grapefruits

1 tablespoon finely minced shallots

1 1/4 teaspoons Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons white-wine vinegar

1 tablespoon chopped fresh lemon basil or regular basil, plus leaves for garnish

Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

2 avocados, peeled and pitted

4 hearts of palm, cut in 1/2-inch-thick rounds

1 large head Boston lettuce (8 ounces), well washed and dried

Preparation

Fill a large bowl with ice and water; set aside. Bring two inches of water to a boil in a large stockpot. Steam lobsters for 10 minutes; transfer to ice bath to cool. Break off claws and tails; use bodies to make a stock, or discard. Split tail lengthwise with a sharp knife; remove meat. Slice tail into bite-size pieces. Remove claws from shells, keeping whole if possible. Chill lobster meat in the refrigerator.

Supreme the grapefruit: Cut ends off grapefruit; remove peel, pith, and outer membranes. Lift sections away from the membranes, and reserve. Squeeze 1/2 cup juice from membranes into a bowl for dressing.

Place shallots, mustard, vinegar, juice, and lemon basil in a bowl; season with salt and pepper. Whisk to combine. Gradually whisk in olive oil; adjust seasoning.

Cut avocados into 1/2-inch-thick wedges; coat with a little grapefruit juice to prevent discoloration. In a large bowl, combine avocado, lobster, grapefruit, and hearts of palm. Line individual glass serving dishes with lettuce leaves. Tear remaining lettuce into bite-size pieces; add to lobster mixture. Drizzle salad with dressing; toss. Fill lettuce leaves with salad; garnish with lemon basil, and serve immediately.