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Grilled Lobster Tail
Grilling lobster tail is a culinary experience that transports you to a seaside paradise, even if you’re cooking in your backyard. With succulent meat and a rich buttery flavor, there’s something undeniably luxurious about preparing grilled lobster tails. This dish makes a statement for intimate dinners, holidays, or simply treating yourself to something special. Having tried it myself, I can assure you that the combination of garlic butter and the smokiness from the grill elevates the lobster tail to a whole new level of perfection.
Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe
What sets this grilled lobster tail recipe apart? The answer lies in its simplicity and flavor. First off, you don’t need to be a professional chef to master this dish; it’s approachable for home cooks of any skill level. The grill adds a delightful smoky flavor, while the garlic butter brings a rich, savory element. Plus, grilled lobster tail is surprisingly quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend gathering.
“Made this grilled lobster tail for a special occasion, and it was a hit! The garlic butter is a game changer!” — satisfied cook
Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or simply enjoy a delicious seafood treat, this recipe deserves a place at your table. It combines fancy dining with the comfort of home cooking, allowing you to create a memorable meal without extensive preparation.
Your Easy Cooking Guide
Preparing grilled lobster tail is straightforward and delightfully rewarding. Here’s what you can expect when you dive into this recipe: First, you’ll prepare your lobster for grilling, then whip up a mouthwatering garlic butter sauce. After brushing the tails with this flavor-packed mixture, they’ll grill to a perfect tenderness in just minutes. In no time, you’ll be ready to serve a dish that feels gourmet yet is easy enough to pull off on a casual evening.
Gather Your Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this grilled lobster tail recipe:
- 4 pieces lobster tails (6-8 ounces each)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
Feel free to swap out fresh parsley for other herbs like cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 350°F to 400°F (175°C to 200°C).
- Using kitchen scissors, carefully cut down the center of the top shell of each lobster tail, taking care not to cut through the meat.
- Gently pull apart the shell to expose the lobster meat.
- In a small bowl, melt the butter and mix in the minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Generously brush the garlic butter mixture over the lobster meat, reserving some for later basting.
- Place the battered lobster tails on the grill, shell side down, and grill for about 5 minutes.
- Flip the tails and grill for another 5 minutes, basting with the remaining garlic butter.
- The lobster is cooked when the meat is opaque and tender. Remove from the grill and let rest for a minute or two before serving.
Perfect Pairings for Grilled Lobster Tail
Grilled lobster tails shine when paired with sophisticated yet simple accompaniments. Serve them with grilled asparagus or a fresh garden salad to keep the meal light. For a more indulgent experience, add garlic bread and a creamy risotto on the side. Wine lovers can explore a chilled white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the rich flavors perfectly.
Best Way to Store Grilled Lobster Tail
Storing leftover grilled lobster tail might not be a common challenge, but it’s essential to do it right to maintain freshness. Allow the lobster to cool to room temperature, then wrap each tail tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. If you plan to store it longer, freezing is an option; just ensure it’s well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn. Always defrost in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture.
Expert Advice
- Choose fresh lobster tails for the best flavor. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before grilling.
- Avoid overcooking the lobster; it’s done when the meat turns opaque and firm to the touch.
- For added flavor, consider letting the garlic butter sit for a bit after mixing so the flavors meld.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations to try with your grilled lobster tails:
- Add chili flakes or sriracha to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.
- Swap out the lemon juice for lime for a zesty twist.
- Experiment with different herbs like dill or basil for unique flavors.
- Top with a sprinkle of queso fresco or a dollop of crème fraîche for a fancy touch.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to grill lobster tails?
Grilling lobster tails takes about 10 minutes in total—5 minutes per side.
Can I substitute the butter?
For a dairy-free option, you can use olive oil or a plant-based butter.
Is it safe to eat lobster if it wasn’t entirely thawed before cooking?
Yes, but it’s best to fully thaw lobster for even cooking. Always make sure the meat reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to producing stunning grilled lobster tails that are sure to impress. Happy grilling!
Print
Grilled Lobster Tail
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Indulge in a luxurious seafood experience with these perfectly grilled lobster tails, flavored with a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 pieces lobster tails (6–8 ounces each)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 350°F to 400°F (175°C to 200°C).
- Using kitchen scissors, carefully cut down the center of the top shell of each lobster tail, taking care not to cut through the meat.
- Gently pull apart the shell to expose the lobster meat.
- In a small bowl, melt the butter and mix in the minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Generously brush the garlic butter mixture over the lobster meat, reserving some for later basting.
- Place the battered lobster tails on the grill, shell side down, and grill for about 5 minutes.
- Flip the tails and grill for another 5 minutes, basting with the remaining garlic butter.
- The lobster is cooked when the meat is opaque and tender. Remove from the grill and let rest for a minute or two before serving.
Notes
Choose fresh lobster tails for the best flavor and avoid overcooking. Consider using different herbs for unique flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
Keywords: lobster tail, grilled seafood, elegant dinner



