Description
Grilled Lobster Tail with Garlic Butter
Spice up your lobster tails with a hint of chili and garlic butter!
Ingredients:
2 lobster tails
4 tbsp butter, melted
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 tsp chili flakes
1 tbsp lime juice
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
Preheat grill to medium-high. Butterfly lobster tails and loosen the meat.
Mix butter, garlic, chili flakes, and lime juice. Brush over the lobster.
Grill lobster tails for 5 minutes per side, basting with chili butter.
Garnish with cilantro and serve.
Who loves a spicy twist?
#SpicyGarlicLobster
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect grilled lobster tails every time.
- Prep the Lobster: Using kitchen shears, cut through the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise, stopping at the tail fin. Gently pry the shell open and lift the meat out, resting it on top of the split shell. Use a knife to make a shallow slit down the top of the meat to help it cook evenly.
- Make the Chili-Garlic Butter: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and chili flakes, cooking for just 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh lime juice.
- Grill Setup: Preheat your grill to a consistent medium-high heat (about 400°F). Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill and Baste: Place the lobster tails meat-side down on the grill. Grill for 4-5 minutes until you get nice grill marks. Carefully flip the tails so the meat is facing up. Generously baste with the chili-garlic butter. Grill for another 4-5 minutes, basting once more, until the meat is opaque and firm.
- Rest and Serve: Transfer the lobster tails to a plate. Drizzle with any remaining butter, garnish with fresh cilantro, and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your grilled lobster tail with complementary sides. Serve with grilled asparagus or lemon-herb rice to soak up the delicious butter sauce. For a lighter meal, a simple arugula salad with a citrus vinaigrette pairs beautifully. Don’t forget crusty bread for dipping!
How-to Summary
Butterfly lobster tails, create a spicy garlic-lime butter, and grill for 5 minutes per side while basting. The result is succulent, flavorful lobster with a kick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cook this in the oven instead? Absolutely. Broil on a baking sheet, meat-side up, for 8-10 minutes, basting halfway through.
How do I know when the lobster is fully cooked? The meat will turn from translucent to completely opaque white and will feel firm to the touch. The internal temperature should reach 140°F.
Can I use frozen lobster tails? Yes, but thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight first. Pat them very dry before butterflying.
What can I substitute for chili flakes? Use 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for heat, or smoked paprika for a milder, smoky flavor.
How can I prevent the butter from burning on the grill? Keep your basting sauce in a small dish off to the side of the grill, not directly over the flames, and brush it on quickly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking: This is the top mistake. Lobster meat becomes tough and rubbery when cooked too long. Stick to the recommended time and watch for visual cues.
- Skipping the Butterfly: Not butterflying the tail makes for uneven cooking and prevents the flavorful butter from penetrating the meat.
- Using High-Heat Butter: Adding cold butter to the hot sauce can cause separation. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
- Not Preheating the Grill: A properly preheated grill ensures those perfect sear marks and prevents sticking.
Conclusion
This Grilled Lobster Tail with Chili-Garlic Butter transforms a luxurious ingredient into an approachable, show-stopping meal. The combination of sweet lobster, rich butter, spicy chili, and bright lime is irresistible. By following this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can confidently create a restaurant-quality seafood feast right in your own backyard. It’s the perfect way to add a spicy twist to your next special occasion.