Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails
Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails are a delightful and elegant dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or celebrating a special event, these succulent lobster tails coated in a rich lemon garlic butter sauce will impress your guests. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, this recipe combines the sweetness of lobster with the zesty freshness of lemon, making it a standout choice for seafood lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Ready in less than 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
- Elevated Flavor: The combination of lemon, garlic, and butter enhances the natural sweetness of the lobster, creating a deliciously rich experience.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve as an impressive main course or slice into smaller pieces for appetizers at parties and events.
- Grill-Friendly: Perfect for outdoor cooking, these lobster tails can be easily grilled to perfection without fuss.
- Health Benefits: Lobster is low in calories and high in protein, making this dish a nutritious choice that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Tools and Preparation
To create Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smoother and helps you achieve the best results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Small saucepan
- Kitchen shears
- Basting brush
- Digital thermometer
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly cooked lobster tails with those beautiful grill marks.
- Digital Thermometer: Ensures your lobster reaches the ideal internal temperature of 140°F for safe consumption.
- Basting Brush: Helps evenly apply the flavorful lemon garlic butter sauce to the lobster tails while grilling.
Ingredients
For the Lobster Tails
- 4 8-ounce lobster tails
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt (divided)
For the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted clarified butter
- 4-5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon flat leaf parsley (roughly chopped)
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
How to Make Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails
Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the clarified butter.
- Add the minced garlic, lemon zest, parsley, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
- Stir to combine and heat for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside. If it cools too much, reheat gently until melted.
Step 2: Butterfly the Lobster Tails
- Using kitchen shears, carefully butterfly each lobster tail by cutting down the center of the shell.
- Gently loosen the flesh from the shell but keep it attached at the base.
- If needed, devein the top of each tail and skewer lengthwise with soaked wooden or metal skewers.
Step 3: Season with Olive Oil and Salt
- Brush each lobster tail’s meat side with olive oil.
- Sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon of coarse kosher salt to enhance flavor before grilling.
Step 4: Grill the Lobster Tails
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place lobster tails on the top grill rack with meat side down for 5-6 minutes.
- Turn them over and continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes or until meat is white and pearly. The internal temperature should reach 140°F when checked with a digital thermometer.
Step 5: Add Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
- Remove grilled lobster tails from the grill.
- Spoon generous amounts of lemon garlic butter sauce over each tail, allowing it to seep between the meat and shell.
- Dust with smoked paprika for added flavor before serving.
Step 6: Enjoy!
After enjoying your delicious Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails, we’d love to hear your thoughts! Please leave us a star rating or comment below about your experience!
How to Serve Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails
Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails are a decadent treat that can elevate any meal. Whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy dinner, serving these succulent lobster tails properly enhances their flavors.
Pair with Fresh Salads
- Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the lobster.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons create a classic contrast to tender lobster meat.
Serve with Grilled Vegetables
- Zucchini and Bell Peppers: Grilled zucchini and bell peppers add vibrant colors and flavors to your plate.
- Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus spears bring a delightful crunch alongside the lobster tails.
Accompany with Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Savor every drop of lemon garlic butter by serving it with warm, toasted garlic bread.
- Baguette Slices: Fresh baguette slices are perfect for dipping into the flavorful sauce.
Consider a Wine Pairing
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay pairs beautifully, enhancing the buttery notes of the dish.
- Sauvignon Blanc: This crisp white wine complements the citrus flavors from the lemon butter sauce.
How to Perfect Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails
To achieve perfectly grilled lobster tails, paying attention to details is essential. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience.
- Use Fresh Lobster Tails: Always opt for fresh over frozen lobster tails for better flavor and texture.
- Butterfly Carefully: Ensure you butterfly the tails without cutting all the way through for even cooking.
- Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill ensures that you get those beautiful grill marks while sealing in flavors.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Overcooking can lead to tough meat; aim for an internal temperature of 140°F for perfect results.
- Baste During Cooking: Basting with lemon butter while grilling adds extra moisture and flavor.
- Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing the lobster tails to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps redistribute juices.
Best Side Dishes for Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails
Pairing side dishes with Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delightful options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer comfort and balance richness.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled to perfection provides a seasonal touch that enhances your seafood feast.
- Rice Pilaf: Aromatic rice pilaf garnished with herbs is light yet satisfying, making it an excellent accompaniment.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, cutting through the buttery richness of the lobster.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts bring earthy tones that pair well with seafood dishes.
- Couscous Salad: A refreshing couscous salad loaded with veggies offers a light side option full of flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the taste and texture of your dish.
- Not using fresh lobster tails: Always choose fresh lobster tails for the best flavor. Frozen options can be used, but ensure they are properly thawed before grilling.
- Overcooking the lobster: Lobster cooks quickly. Keep an eye on the grill to prevent overcooking, which can make the meat tough. Aim for an internal temperature of 140°F.
- Skipping the lemon butter sauce: This sauce adds richness and flavor. Don’t skip it; instead, ensure you prepare it just before grilling for maximum freshness.
- Ignoring seasoning: Proper seasoning enhances flavors. Be generous with salt and smoked paprika to elevate your dish.
- Using high heat only: While a hot grill is essential, placing lobster tails too close to direct flames can cause flare-ups. Use medium-high heat for even cooking.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Use within 2 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place lobster tails on a baking tray and cover with foil. Heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place lobster tails in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat, add a little butter, and cook lobster tails until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen lobster tails for Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails?
Yes, frozen lobster tails can be used. Just remember to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before grilling.
How do I know when my grilled lobster tails are done?
Grilled lobster tails are done when the meat turns opaque and reaches an internal temperature of 140°F. Use a digital thermometer for accuracy.
What is the best way to serve Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails?
Serve them immediately after grilling, topped with extra lemon garlic butter sauce and garnished with parsley for added color and flavor.
Can I customize the lemon butter sauce?
Absolutely! You can add herbs like thyme or dill or adjust the garlic quantity according to your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
The Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails recipe is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings or special occasions. Feel free to customize the lemon butter sauce or add your favorite spices to make it uniquely yours!
Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails are an exquisite seafood delight that combines the sweetness of fresh lobster with a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce. Perfect for any special occasion or summer barbecue, these lobster tails are quick to prepare, taking just 20 minutes from grill to table. The rich flavors and succulent texture make this dish a standout choice for seafood lovers looking to impress their guests. Whether served as a main course or elegant appetizers, these grilled lobster tails are sure to elevate your dining experience.
Ingredients
- 4 (8-ounce) lobster tails
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted clarified butter
- 4–5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon flat leaf parsley (chopped)
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- Prepare the lemon garlic butter by melting clarified butter in a saucepan over low heat. Add minced garlic, lemon zest, parsley, and remaining salt; heat for another 1-2 minutes.
- Butterfly each lobster tail by cutting down the shell, loosening the flesh while keeping it attached at the base. Season with olive oil and salt.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and place lobster tails meat side down for 5-6 minutes. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
- Drizzle lemon garlic butter over the grilled tails and sprinkle with smoked paprika before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 lobster tail (approximately 227g)
- Calories: 335
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
