Lobster Tail Recipe with Garlic Lemon Butter

Prepare an impressive lobster tail dish that combines tender, buttery seafood with the zesty brightness of garlic and lemon. This broiled lobster recipe offers a simple method to achieve a perfect balance of flavors, making it ideal for holiday dinners, romantic meals, or any special occasion. With easy-to-follow steps and a luxurious garlic lemon butter sauce, this recipe ensures a professional-quality result right in your kitchen. Elevate your culinary skills with this refined and flavorful seafood recipe, perfectly complemented by versatile side options.

Ingredients

• 4 lobster tails (5 to 6 oz each)
• 1 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
• 2 garlic cloves, pressed
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
• 1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided

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Instructions

How to Butterfly Lobster Tails:

1. Cut the Shell: Use kitchen scissors to cut through the top shell of each lobster tail. Start from the base and cut through the top portion of the meat without separating the tail completely.
2. Crack the Ribs: Flip the tail over to the translucent side and gently crack the ribs in the center. This helps open the shell more easily.
3. Butterfly: Carefully open the shell with your thumbs and fingers. Loosen the meat from the shell, removing the vein if present. Lift the meat out of the shell, keeping it attached at the base. Press the shell back together and rest the meat on top.

How to Broil Lobster Tails:

1. Prepare the Oven: Position the oven rack in the upper third or center so that the lobster meat will be at least 6 inches from the broiler. Preheat the oven to broil on high.
2. Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together parsley, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, olive oil, and lemon juice.
3. Arrange Lobster Tails: Place the butterflied lobster tails into a roasting pan. Evenly distribute the marinade over each tail, then dot with 1/2 tablespoon of butter, cut into small pieces.
4. Broil: Broil lobster tails on high heat for 10-11 minutes, adjusting for size as needed (see lobster size chart for guidance). The lobster meat is done when it becomes opaque and white in the center, reaching 145°F on an instant-read thermometer.
5. Prepare the Butter Sauce: Drain the pan drippings into a small saucepan and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Simmer briefly, then remove from heat. Pour over lobster tails or serve as a dipping sauce in ramekins.
6. Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Elegant Presentation: A restaurant-quality dish that’s perfect for special occasions.
• Rich Flavor: The garlic lemon butter enhances the natural sweetness of the lobster.
• Quick and Easy: Simple to prepare and broils to perfection in just minutes.
• Customizable: Adjust flavors and pair with a variety of sides.

Tips

• Lobster Quality: Use fresh or high-quality frozen lobster tails for the best flavor.
• Avoid Overcooking: Monitor closely to prevent the lobster meat from becoming tough.
• Broiling Distance: Ensure tails are positioned at least 6 inches from the broiler for even cooking.
• Extra Butter Sauce: Make additional garlic lemon butter if serving with sides like bread or vegetables.

Variations and Substitutions

• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a kick.
• Herb Options: Swap parsley with dill or chives for a different flavor.
• Lemon Substitute: Use lime juice for a unique twist.
• Butter Alternative: Replace butter with olive oil for a lighter option.

FAQs

Q: Can I grill these instead of broiling?
A: Yes, grill the lobster tails meat-side down for 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative like vegan butter or olive oil.

Q: How do I know if the lobster is done?
A: The meat will be opaque and white, and the temperature will reach 145°F.

Q: What size lobster tails should I use?
A: Tails between 5-6 ounces are ideal for even cooking.

Serving and Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
• Serve alongside roasted asparagus, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad.
• Add a side of garlic bread to soak up the flavorful butter sauce.
• Enhance the dish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.