Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails

Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails are a delightful dish that combines the sweet, succulent taste of lobster with the rich flavors of lemon and garlic. Perfect for special occasions or a casual summer grill-out, this recipe is not only quick but also incredibly satisfying. In just 20 minutes, you can impress your guests or indulge in a gourmet meal at home.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Lobster Tails
• For the Lemon Butter Sauce
• How to Make Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails
• Step 1: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
• Step 2: Prepare the Lobster Tails
• Step 3: Season Lobster Meat
• Step 4: Grill Lobster Tails
• Step 5: Add Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
• Step 6: Enjoy Your Meal!
• How to Serve Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails
• Pair with Fresh Herbs
• Accompany with Dipping Sauces
• Serve with Grains
• Garnish Smartly
• How to Perfect Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails
• Best Side Dishes for Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails
• Reheating Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I know when Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails are done?
• Can I use frozen lobster tails for this recipe?
• What can I serve with Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails?
• Are there alternatives to clarified butter?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavorful Experience: The lemon garlic butter sauce elevates the natural sweetness of the lobster, making each bite unforgettable.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal for summer barbecues, romantic dinners, or holiday feasts—this recipe fits any occasion.
• Easy to Follow: Simple instructions make it accessible for both novice and experienced cooks alike.
• Impressive Presentation: Grilled lobster tails look stunning on any plate, making them perfect for entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience. Having everything ready will make preparing Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails a breeze.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Small saucepan
• Kitchen shears
• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the high heat needed to perfectly cook lobster tails while imparting that great smoky flavor.
• Small saucepan: Essential for melting your butter and combining it with other flavorful ingredients.
• Kitchen shears: Make butterflying the lobster tails safe and easy without damaging the meat.
• Skewers: Help keep the lobster tails from curling up while cooking on the grill.

Ingredients

To create these delicious Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails, gather the following ingredients:

For the Lobster Tails

• 4 8-ounce lobster tails
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt (divided)

For the Lemon 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: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the clarified butter. Once melted:
* Add minced garlic, lemon zest, parsley, and remaining salt.
* Stir to combine and heat for an additional 1-2 minutes.
* Remove from heat and set aside; if it cools too much, reheat until melted.

Step 2: Prepare the Lobster Tails

Using kitchen shears:
* Carefully butterfly each lobster tail by cutting down the middle of the shell.
* Gently loosen the flesh from the shell and devein if necessary.
* Skewer each tail lengthwise with soaked wooden or metal skewers.

Step 3: Season Lobster Meat

Brush each piece of meat with olive oil:
* Sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon of coarse kosher salt on all sides.
* Set aside while you prepare to grill.

Step 4: Grill Lobster Tails

Heat your grill to medium-high:
* Place lobster tails on the top grill rack, meat side down, for 5-6 minutes.
* Turn tails over and continue grilling for another 1-2 minutes until meat is white and pearly.
* Ensure internal temperature reaches 140°F using a digital thermometer.

Step 5: Add Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

Remove grilled tails from the heat:
* Spoon lemon garlic butter sauce over each tail generously.
* Let it seep down between meat and shell for maximum flavor.
* Dust with smoked paprika before serving.

Step 6: Enjoy Your Meal!

If you’ve made this recipe:
Come back to let us know how it turned out 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 impress your guests with a delightful dining experience. Pair these succulent tails with complementary sides and garnishes to elevate the meal.

Pair with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Accompany with Dipping Sauces

• Garlic Aioli: This creamy sauce enhances the lobster’s flavor while adding a garlicky kick.
• Spicy Remoulade: A tangy, spicy remoulade can provide a zesty contrast to the rich butter sauce.

Serve with Grains

• Couscous Salad: Light and fluffy couscous mixed with veggies makes a perfect side.
• Wild Rice: Its nutty flavor pairs beautifully with seafood dishes, including lobster tails.

Garnish Smartly

• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest can brighten up the presentation and flavor.
• Edible Flowers: Use colorful edible flowers for an elegant touch on the plate.

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How to Perfect Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails

To achieve perfectly grilled lobster tails, attention to detail is key. Here are some tips to ensure your dish stands out.

• Choose Fresh Lobster: Always opt for fresh lobster rather than frozen for better texture and taste.
• Butterfly Correctly: Take your time when butterflying the tails; this helps them cook evenly.
• Monitor Grill Temperature: Keep your grill at medium-high heat for optimal cooking without over-charring.
• Use a Thermometer: Check the internal temperature; it should reach 140°F for perfectly cooked meat.
• Baste Generously: Brush the tails with lemon butter during grilling for added moisture and flavor.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the lobster to rest for a few minutes after grilling; this keeps it juicy.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails

When planning a meal around Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails, choosing the right sides can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting companion.
2. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds both color and crunch to your plate.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Parmesan and croutons provides a classic pairing.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the richness of lobster; consider grilling it for extra flavor.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw can cut through the richness of butter, bringing balance to your meal.
6. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa mixed with herbs offers a healthy, flavorful side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can ruin this delightful dish.

• Bold Preparation Method: Not butterflying the lobster tails correctly can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure you cut down the center and gently pull the flesh away from the shell for even grilling.
• Bold Ignoring Cooking Temperature: Cooking at too high a temperature may char the meat before it cooks through. Aim for medium-high heat to achieve that perfect grilled texture.
• Bold Skipping the Marinade: Failing to brush the lobster with olive oil before grilling can result in dry meat. This step adds flavor and moisture, so don’t skip it!
• Bold Overcooking: Cooking lobster tails for too long can make them tough and rubbery. Keep an eye on them, aiming for an internal temperature of 140°F.
• Bold Not Using a Thermometer: Relying solely on time rather than checking the temperature can lead to undercooked or overcooked lobster tails. Use a digital thermometer for best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover lobster tails in an airtight container.
• They will last in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails

• Wrap lobster tails tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails

• Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and wrap lobster tails in foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Bold Microwave: Place lobster tails in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel and reheat on low power for 1-2 minutes.
• Bold Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat and add a splash of water or broth. Place lobster tails in the skillet, cover, and steam gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Check if the meat is opaque and has turned pearly white. The internal temperature should be at least 140°F.

Can I use frozen lobster tails for this recipe?

Yes! Just ensure they are completely thawed before grilling for even cooking.

What can I serve with Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails?

These delicious lobster tails pair well with sides like grilled vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad.

Are there alternatives to clarified butter?

You can use regular unsalted butter if clarified butter is not available; just keep an eye on it as it may burn more easily.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Butter Grilled Lobster Tails are not only incredibly tasty but also versatile enough for any occasion. This recipe is perfect for summer gatherings or intimate dinners alike. Feel free to customize your dish by experimenting with different herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences!