Grilled Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter

Description

Grilled Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter

Ingredients:

4 lobster tails

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon paprika

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.

2. Using kitchen scissors, carefully cut the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise and gently pull apart the shell to expose the meat.

3. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

4. Brush the lobster meat generously with the garlic butter mixture.

5. Place the lobster tails meat-side down on the grill and cook for about 5 minutes.

6. Flip the tails over and brush with more garlic butter. Grill for another 5 minutes or until the lobster meat is opaque and cooked through.

7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Enjoy!

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed instructions for perfect grilled lobster tails every time.

1. Prep the Grill: Preheat your grill to a consistent medium heat (around 350-400°F). Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
2. Butterfly the Tails: Using sturdy kitchen shears, cut through the top shell lengthwise from the thick end to the tail fan. Stop just before cutting through the tail fan. Use your fingers to gently pry the shell open and lift the meat out, resting it on top of the split shell. Press the shell halves together underneath the meat to cradle it.
3. Make the Garlic Butter: While the grill heats, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Set half aside for basting during grilling.
4. Initial Baste: Generously brush the exposed lobster meat with the garlic butter mixture.
5. First Grill (Meat-Side Down): Place the tails meat-side down directly on the grill grates. Grill for 4-6 minutes until you get a light char and the meat starts to turn opaque.
6. Flip and Final Cook: Carefully flip the tails. Brush liberally with the reserved garlic butter. Grill for another 4-6 minutes, or until the meat is completely opaque, firm to the touch, and registers 140°F internally.
7. Rest and Serve: Transfer the lobster tails to a platter. Drizzle with any remaining butter, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your meal with these complementary sides. Serve the grilled lobster tails with drawn butter and lemon wedges as essentials. For sides, consider a fresh arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette, grilled asparagus, or creamy corn on the cob. For a hearty meal, pair with garlic herb pasta or crispy roasted potatoes. A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc perfectly complements the rich, smoky flavors.

How-to Summary

Butterfly lobster tails by cutting the top shell and lifting the meat. Baste with a mixture of melted butter, garlic, paprika, lemon, salt, and pepper. Grill meat-side down for 5 minutes, flip, baste again, and grill for another 5 minutes until opaque. Garnish with parsley and lemon.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this recipe in the oven? Yes. Broil on a baking sheet for 1-2 minutes per ounce of tail, meat-side up, until opaque and lightly browned.

2. How do I know when the lobster is fully cooked? The meat will be uniformly white (opaque) and firm, not translucent or rubbery. An internal temperature of 140°F is ideal.

3. Should I use frozen or fresh lobster tails? Both work. Thaw frozen tails completely in the refrigerator overnight before butterflying. Pat dry before grilling.

4. What if my lobster tails are very large? For tails over 8 ounces, consider a lower grill heat and longer cooking time, or finish them with the lid closed to cook through without burning.

5. Can I prepare the garlic butter ahead of time? Absolutely. Make the garlic butter mixture a day ahead and store it covered in the fridge. Reheat gently before using.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking: This is the most common error, leading to tough, rubbery meat. Follow timing closely and use a thermometer.
• Not Butterflying Properly: Failing to fully loosen the meat from the shell can cause uneven cooking. Ensure the meat is lifted and resting on top.
• Grilling on Too High Heat: This will burn the butter and exterior before the inside is cooked. Maintain a steady medium heat.
• Skipping the Rest: Let the tails rest for 2-3 minutes after grilling to allow juices to redistribute.

Conclusion

Grilling lobster tails with garlic butter is an impressive yet straightforward culinary feat. By mastering the butterfly technique, managing grill heat, and avoiding overcooking, you can create a restaurant-quality dish at home. The rich, smoky flavor infused with garlic and lemon is unforgettable. With this comprehensive guide, you’re equipped to execute this delicious recipe perfectly and impress your guests with a truly special meal.