Mouth-Watering Grilled Lobster Tail

Grilled lobster tail is a mouthwatering seafood dish that elevates any summer menu with its exceptional taste. The tender, sweet lobster meat harmonizes beautifully with the smoky, slightly charred flavors from the grill, creating an extraordinary dining experience. While it may appear to be an opulent and costly dish, preparing grilled lobster tail at home is surprisingly simple.

This Grilled lobster tail recipe can be completed in less than 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a special occasion dinner or a weekend treat. Here's how to make it:
INGREDIENTS Grilled Lobster Tail
INGREDIENTS

  • 1/4 cup melted butter 
  • 1 tbsp. lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp. lemon zest 
  • 2 tbsp. freshly sliced chives, plus more for garnish
  • 2 tbsp. freshly chopped parsley, plus more for garnish
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 tsp. kosher salt, plus more for seasoning
  • 4 (8-oz.) lobster tails
  • Extra-virgin olive oil
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes 
  • For serving: lemon wedges

INSTRUCTIONS Grilled Lobster Tail
INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Before you begin cooking, preheat the grill to medium heat.
  2. Whisk together melted butter, lemon juice, zest, chives, parsley, garlic, and salt in a small bowl. 
  3. Cut the top of the lobster shell off of the meaty portion of the tail using kitchen shears. Cut the meat down the center with a knife, but only cut some of the way through. To keep the lobster from curling up when cooked, insert a skewer lengthwise through it. 
  4. Gently brush the surface with oil and season to taste with salt and pepper.
  5. Grill the flesh side down until it is lightly charred. It should take about six minutes. After flipping the lobster, place a spoonful of butter on the fleshy side. Grill more until just cooked through for about 5 mins. 
  6. Remove the lobster from the grill and sprinkle with red pepper flakes for extra zing. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Best Tips for Grilling Lobster Tail
Best Tips for Grilling Lobster Tail

  • Choose fresh lobster tails: Select high-quality, fresh lobster tails with vibrant color and a mild oceanic smell for the best taste and texture.
  • Thaw properly: If using frozen lobster tails, thaw them in the refrigerator for 8-10 hours or in cold water for 30-60 minutes to ensure even cooking.
  • Prep the tails: Use kitchen shears to cut the shell lengthwise, then gently separate the meat from the shell without detaching it completely. Place the meat back on top of the shell for grilling.
  • Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F) for even cooking and perfect charring.
  • Season and baste: Brush the lobster tails with melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper before grilling and cooking to enhance the flavor and keep the meat moist.
  • Monitor cooking time: Grill the lobster tails for 5-6 minutes on the meat side, then flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes or until the shells are bright red and the meat is opaque. Avoid overcooking to prevent dry, tough meat.
  • Use a thermometer: To ensure the lobster tails are cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 140-145°F.
  • Let them rest: Allow the grilled lobster tails to rest for a couple of minutes before serving to retain moisture and ensure a tender texture.
  • Serve with complementary sides: Pair your grilled lobster tails with light, refreshing sides like steamed vegetables, a crisp salad, or grilled corn on the cob for a balanced and satisfying meal.
  • Practice food safety: Keep raw and cooked seafood separate, and clean all surfaces, utensils, and hands to avoid cross-contamination. Store leftover grilled lobster tails in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days.

Side dishes best paired with Grilled Lobster Tail
Side dishes best paired with Grilled Lobster Tail

  • Grilled corn on the cob: Seasoned with butter, salt, and pepper, grilled corn provides a smoky and sweet complement to grilled lobster tail.
  • Garlic parmesan mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic and parmesan cheese add a rich and comforting element to the meal.
  • Steamed or grilled asparagus: Simply seasoned with olive oil, salt, and lemon juice, asparagus offers a healthy and flavorful side dish
  • Caprese salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a balsamic glaze create a light and refreshing accompaniment to the richness of lobster.
  • Lemon herb couscous: Fluffy couscous with fresh herbs and a hint of lemon add brightness and texture to the dish.
  • Sautéed spinach with garlic: A simple side of sautéed spinach with garlic and olive oil brings earthy flavors and a touch of green to the plate.
  • Grilled vegetable skewers: Colorful skewers featuring zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms provide a smoky and delicious addition to the meal.
  • Rice pilaf: Aromatic rice pilaf with onions, garlic, and herbs creates a satisfying base for the lobster tail.
  • Summer quinoa salad: A light, fresh quinoa salad with mixed vegetables, feta cheese, and a citrus vinaigrette balances the richness of the lobster.
  • Green beans almondine: Tender green beans sautéed with almonds and garlic offer a classic and elegant side dish that pairs well with grilled lobster tail.

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