Garlic Butter Lobster Tails: Succulent lobster tails broiled in rich garlic butter sauce, finished with a squeeze of lemon. Delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Flavorful: A luscious garlic butter glaze enhances the sweet, tender lobster meat.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for a weeknight splurge or a dinner party.
- Elegant Presentation: The lobster meat displayed atop the shell creates a stunning visual appeal.
- Versatile Pairings: Complements a variety of sides for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 4 lobster tails
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
Directions
- Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven’s broiler.
- Prep the Lobster Tails:
- Using kitchen shears, carefully cut along the top shell of each lobster tail, stopping just before the tail fin.
- Gently pull the meat out, keeping it attached at the base, and rest it on top of the shell for an elegant presentation.
- Make the Garlic Butter Glaze: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well.
- Brush the Lobster: Place the lobster tails on a foil-lined baking sheet. Generously brush the garlic butter glaze over the exposed lobster meat.
- Broil the Lobster: Broil for 8–10 minutes, or until the meat turns opaque and lightly golden. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the lobster tails from the oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve with lemon wedges. For extra indulgence, drizzle with additional melted butter.
Serving Suggestions
- Vegetable Sides: Roasted asparagus, garlic green beans, or sautéed spinach.
- Carb Pairings: Creamy mashed potatoes, wild rice, or crusty French bread.
- Salads: A light Caesar salad or arugula with a lemon vinaigrette.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per Serving: ~240 kcal
Variations
- Spicy Lobster: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the garlic butter glaze for heat.
- Herbaceous Twist: Include fresh thyme or dill in the glaze for added flavor.
- Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the lobster before broiling for a cheesy crust.
- Grilled Lobster: Instead of broiling, cook the lobster tails on a grill for a smoky flavor.
- Butter-Free Option: Substitute olive oil for a lighter version.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover lobster in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a little butter to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the lobster rubbery.
FAQs
1. How do I choose fresh lobster tails?
Look for lobster tails that are firm, shiny, and free of strong odors.
2. Can I use frozen lobster tails?
Yes, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or under cold running water before cooking.
3. What if I don’t have a broiler?
You can bake the lobster tails at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes until the meat is opaque.
4. Can I substitute butter with a dairy-free option?
Yes, use olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free version.
5. How do I avoid overcooking lobster tails?
Monitor closely and remove them from the broiler as soon as the meat turns opaque and reaches 140°F (60°C).
6. Can I prepare the garlic butter glaze in advance?
Yes, mix the glaze ingredients and refrigerate. Melt it slightly before brushing onto the lobster.
7. What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the richness of the lobster.
8. Can I use the same glaze for other seafood?
Absolutely! This garlic butter glaze works beautifully with shrimp, scallops, or fish fillets.
9. What size lobster tails should I use?
Medium-sized tails (4–6 oz each) cook evenly and are ideal for broiling.
10. Can I cook lobster tails without the shell?
Yes, remove the shell and broil the meat on a foil-lined baking sheet, but handle gently to maintain its shape.
Conclusion
Garlic butter lobster tails are a show-stopping dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. With their tender meat, bold flavors, and luxurious presentation, they’re perfect for date nights, celebrations, or simply treating yourself to a gourmet meal. Pair them with your favorite sides for a restaurant-quality dining experience at home!
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Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Garlic Butter Lobster Tails: Succulent lobster tails broiled in rich garlic butter sauce, finished with a squeeze of lemon. Delicious!
Ingredients
- 4 lobster tails
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven’s broiler.
- Prep the Lobster Tails:
- Using kitchen shears, carefully cut along the top shell of each lobster tail, stopping just before the tail fin.
- Gently pull the meat out, keeping it attached at the base, and rest it on top of the shell for an elegant presentation.
- Make the Garlic Butter Glaze: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well.
- Brush the Lobster: Place the lobster tails on a foil-lined baking sheet. Generously brush the garlic butter glaze over the exposed lobster meat.
- Broil the Lobster: Broil for 8–10 minutes, or until the meat turns opaque and lightly golden. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the lobster tails from the oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve with lemon wedges. For extra indulgence, drizzle with additional melted butter.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Cuisines
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: Seafood