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Grilled Lobster Tail


  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4 (1 lobster tail per person) 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Lobster Tails:

  • 4 lobster tails (about 56 ounces each)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley)
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails

  1. Thaw the Lobster Tails: If you’re using frozen lobster tails, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for 30-45 minutes until fully thawed. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  2. Butterfly the Lobster Tails: Using kitchen shears, carefully cut down the top shell of each lobster tail from the thickest part down to the tail, stopping just before reaching the end. Be careful not to cut into the meat.
  3. Pull Out the Meat: Gently pull the meat up through the shell, keeping it attached at the end. This allows it to sit on top of the shell, creating the classic “butterfly” presentation and ensuring even grilling.
  4. Season the Lobster Tails: Brush the lobster meat with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper. This helps keep the meat moist and adds flavor without overpowering the lobster’s natural taste.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

  1. Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
  2. Add Lemon and Parsley: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley, then remove from heat. This garlic butter sauce will be brushed over the lobster tails before and after grilling, and also served as a dipping sauce.

Step 3: Grill the Lobster Tails

  1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F. If you’re using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals for direct heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
  2. Grill the Lobster Tails: Place the lobster tails meat-side down on the grill. Grill for 4-5 minutes until the meat starts to turn opaque and has nice grill marks.
  3. Flip and Baste: Flip the lobster tails so they are shell-side down. Brush generously with the garlic butter sauce and continue grilling for another 3-4 minutes until the meat is fully opaque and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 135-140°F. Avoid overcooking, as lobster can become tough and rubbery.
  4. Remove from Grill: Once the lobster tails are done, remove them from the grill and brush with any remaining garlic butter sauce for extra flavor.

Step 4: Serve the Lobster Tails

  1. Garnish: Garnish each lobster tail with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a lemon wedge for squeezing over the top.
  2. Serve with Garlic Butter: Serve the grilled lobster tails with a side of warm garlic butter sauce for dipping. This enhances the flavor and adds a luxurious touch to the dish.
  3. Enjoy: Serve immediately while the lobster tails are still hot. Pair with your favorite sides like grilled vegetables, rice, or a crisp salad.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8-10 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 lobster tail with garlic butter
  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Fat: 13g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 25g