Grilled lobster tails are a show-stopping dish perfect for special occasions or a romantic dinner. Pairing succulent lobster meat with a tangy and buttery lemon sauce, this recipe is both simple to prepare and irresistibly delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Restaurant-Quality: Serve a gourmet dish at home.
- Customizable: Add your favorite herbs or spices to make it your own.
Ingredients
For the Lobster Tails:
- 4 lobster tails, split and cleaned
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley
- Edible flowers (optional for presentation)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails
- Use kitchen shears or a sharp knife to split the lobster tails in half lengthwise.
- Gently clean out any debris and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Season the meat side of the lobster tails with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Stir in the minced garlic, fresh thyme, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Grill the Lobster
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C).
- Brush the lobster tails generously with the prepared lemon butter sauce.
- Place the lobster tails on the grill, meat side down. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, basting frequently, until the meat is opaque and slightly charred.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
- Transfer the grilled lobster tails to a serving platter.
- Drizzle the remaining lemon butter sauce over the tails.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, extra lemon zest, and edible flowers for a vibrant and elegant presentation.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Lobster
- Choose Fresh Lobster: Fresh lobster tails yield the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcook: The meat should be opaque and tender, not rubbery.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For precision, cook lobster tails to an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
- Enhance the Flavor: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled lobster tails pair beautifully with these sides:
- Garlic Herb Risotto
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Grilled Asparagus or Zucchini
- Crusty Garlic Bread
FAQs
Can I use frozen lobster tails?
Yes, but thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking.
What if I don’t have a grill?
You can broil the lobster tails in the oven for similar results. Broil for 5-6 minutes, basting with butter sauce.
Can I make the lemon butter sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and store it in the refrigerator. Warm it gently before using.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: ~350 per serving
- Protein: ~20g
- Fat: ~25g
- Carbohydrates: ~2g
⏰ Prep Time: 10 minutes
⏰ Cook Time: 15 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 4
Conclusion
Elevate your next meal with these Grilled Lobster Tails with Lemon Butter Sauce. Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a quiet dinner for two, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results that are sure to impress. The smoky char of the grill paired with the zesty butter sauce creates an unforgettable flavor profile.