Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails

Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails are the perfect dish for a special occasion or a casual summer cookout. This recipe combines the sweet, succulent flavors of lobster with a rich lemon garlic butter sauce, making it a standout choice for seafood lovers. In less than 20 minutes, you can serve up this gourmet delight that impresses at dinner parties or family gatherings. Enjoy the simplicity and elegance of this dish that elevates any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 20 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
• Flavor Explosion: The lemon garlic butter sauce adds a burst of flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the lobster.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course for summer BBQs or an elegant dinner party.
• Impressive Presentation: Grilled lobster tails look stunning on any plate, sure to wow your guests.
• Healthy Choice: Low in carbs and packed with protein, this dish fits well into various dietary plans.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking your Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Small saucepan
• Kitchen shears
• Digital thermometer
• Wooden skewers (soaked) or metal skewers

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the high heat needed for achieving that perfect char on the lobster tails.
• Digital thermometer: Ensures you cook the lobster to perfection without overcooking it.
• Kitchen shears: Make it easy to butterfly the lobster tails safely and effectively.

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

Make the lemon butter sauce by melting the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic, lemon zest, parsley, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir to combine and heat for an additional 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside. If the butter hardens, simply reheat until melted.

Step 2: Butterfly the Lobster Tails

Using kitchen shears, butterfly the lobster tails. Gently loosen the flesh from the shell. Devein the top of each tail if needed. Skewer lengthwise with a soaked wooden skewer or metal skewer.

Step 3: Seasoning

Brush the meat with olive oil and sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon coarse kosher salt. Set aside while you preheat your grill.

Step 4: Grill Time

Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Place lobster tails on the top grill rack, meat side down, for 5-6 minutes. Turn them over and continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes or until the meat is white and pearly. The total cooking time may vary based on tail size. The internal temperature should reach 140°F using a digital thermometer.

Step 5: Serve with Sauce

Remove lobster tails from the grill and spoon lemon garlic butter sauce over each tail, letting it seep between the meat and shell. Dust lightly with smoked paprika before serving.

Step 6: Share Your Experience

If you’ve made this recipe, come back and let us know how it was in our star ratings or comments section!

How to Serve Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails

Serving Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails is an opportunity to showcase their rich flavors and elegant presentation. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Lemon Wedges

• Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the lobster tails just before serving for a zesty kick.

Paired with Garlic Bread

• Serve alongside crispy garlic bread to soak up the delicious lemon garlic butter sauce.

Accompanied by a Green Salad

• A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette balances the richness of the lobster.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the lobster tails on a bed of fluffy white or wild rice, allowing it to absorb the flavorful juices.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Grilled asparagus or zucchini adds color and nutrition, complementing the seafood beautifully.

Topped with Extra Parsley

• Garnish your dish with additional chopped parsley for freshness and added visual appeal.

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How to Perfect Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails

To achieve the best results when preparing Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails, consider these essential tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lobster and high-quality clarified butter enhance flavor.
• Monitor cooking time: Overcooking can make lobster tough; aim for an internal temperature of 140°F.
• Baste regularly: Brush with lemon garlic butter while grilling for extra flavor and moisture.
• Skewer properly: Skewering helps maintain shape during grilling, preventing curling.
• Let rest before serving: Allow the lobster tails to rest for a few minutes after grilling for juiciness.
• Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to add spices like cayenne or herbs for different flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails

Pairing side dishes with your Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails can elevate the meal further. Consider these options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic complement seafood perfectly.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a touch of summer flavor and crunch.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw provides a refreshing crunch that contrasts well with buttery lobster.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs and veggies offers a healthy side option.
5. Grilled Corn Salad: Combine grilled corn, tomatoes, and avocado for a vibrant dish that pairs well.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy sprouts seasoned simply add depth and texture to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails, avoiding common pitfalls can make all the difference in achieving a delightful dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the lobster: Cooking lobster tails for too long can make them tough. Use a digital thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 140°F.
• Ignoring the butter sauce: Skipping the lemon garlic butter sauce will miss out on essential flavor. Always prepare this sauce and drizzle it generously over the cooked tails.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Using stale or old garlic and herbs can ruin the dish’s freshness. Always opt for fresh ingredients for the best taste.
• Skipping the skewer step: Failing to skewer the lobster tails can lead to uneven cooking and curling. Make sure to skewer them properly before grilling.
• Grilling at the wrong temperature: Cooking at too low a heat can result in rubbery texture. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for optimal results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails

• Wrap the lobster tails tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing.
• They will stay good for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place the tails on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place the tails on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat and add a little butter; gently warm the lobster tails for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when my Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails are done?

The best way to check is by using a digital thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 140°F. The meat will also turn opaque and pearly when perfectly cooked.

Can I use frozen lobster tails?

Yes, frozen lobster tails work well! Just ensure they are completely thawed before grilling for even cooking.

What sides pair well with Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails?

Pair these delicious lobster tails with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or buttery corn on the cob for a complete meal.

Can I substitute clarified butter?

While clarified butter gives a unique flavor, you can use regular unsalted butter if needed. Just melt it slowly over low heat.

How do I customize my lemon garlic butter sauce?

Feel free to add spices or herbs like thyme or dill for extra flavor. You can also adjust lemon zest according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails are not only quick and easy but also impressively delicious, making them perfect for any occasion. This recipe offers plenty of room for customization—experimenting with different herbs or spices can lead to exciting new flavors. We encourage you to try this delightful dish at home!