Description
Butter-Garlic Lobster Tails
Ingredients:
2 large lobster tails
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Lobster:
Preheat your oven to broil (500°F/260°C).
Cut the lobster shell lengthwise down the middle to expose the meat, keeping the tail intact.
Make the Butter Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Brush and Broil:
Place the lobster tails on a baking sheet. Generously brush the butter mixture over the lobster meat.
Broil for 8-10 minutes or until the lobster meat is opaque and slightly golden.
Garnish and Serve:
Drizzle any remaining butter sauce over the cooked tails. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Savor the luxurious flavors of tender lobster bathed in a buttery garlic sauce!
Perfect for a special occasion or a gourmet treat at home!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep the Lobster: Using kitchen shears, cut through the top of the lobster shell lengthwise, from the thick end to the tail fan. Stop at the very end. Use your fingers to gently pry the shell open and lift the meat out, resting it on top of the split shell. This “butterflying” technique ensures even cooking.
2. Make the Sauce: While the oven preheats to broil (500°F/260°C), combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the garlic flavor to infuse the butter.
3. Season & Broil: Place the prepared tails on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment. Generously brush the butter sauce over the exposed meat, ensuring it drips down into the shell. Place the sheet on a rack positioned 5-6 inches below the broiler element. Broil for 8-10 minutes. The meat is done when it is opaque, firm to the touch, and the edges are lightly browned.
4. Rest and Finish: Remove from the oven and let the lobster rest for 2-3 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Drizzle with the remaining warmed sauce and garnish with fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these lobster tails immediately as the centerpiece of a special meal. Ideal pairings include:
- A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
- Garlic herb roasted potatoes or creamy risotto.
- Grilled asparagus or roasted cherry tomatoes.
- A crisp, chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
- Crusty bread to soak up every drop of the delicious garlic butter sauce.
How-to Summary
Butterfly lobster tails by cutting the shell and lifting the meat. Whisk together a simple garlic-butter-lemon sauce. Generously brush the sauce onto the tails and broil for 8-10 minutes until opaque and golden. Garnish with parsley and serve hot with remaining sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen lobster tails? Yes. Thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight for best results. Pat them dry before preparing.
How do I know when the lobster is fully cooked? The meat will turn from translucent to completely opaque (white) and will register 140°F (60°C) on an instant-read thermometer.
What if I don’t have a broiler? You can bake them at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time? Absolutely. Make the butter sauce and refrigerate it. Gently reheat it until melted before brushing on the lobster.
Is there a substitute for fresh garlic? While fresh is best, you can use 1/4 teaspoon of high-quality garlic powder mixed into the melted butter.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking: This is the most common error, leading to tough, rubbery meat. Watch the time closely and check for opacity.
- Not Butterflying: Cooking the tail whole results in uneven cooking. Butterflying exposes the meat for direct, even heat.
- Broiling Too Close to the Element: This can cause the butter to burn before the meat cooks. Maintain a 5-6 inch distance.
- Skipping the Rest: Serving immediately off the broiler can cause juices to run out. A brief rest ensures succulent meat.
Conclusion
Mastering restaurant-quality butter-garlic lobster tails at home is straightforward with this detailed guide. By following the step-by-step instructions, avoiding common pitfalls, and pairing with simple sides, you can create an impressive and delicious gourmet experience. The key lies in proper preparation, attentive cooking, and serving the luxurious, garlicky tails immediately for maximum flavor and tenderness.