If you’re looking to impress with a luxurious dinner, these Ultimate Garlic Butter Lobster Tails are the way to go. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish that’s bursting with flavor. Juicy lobster tails are smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce, making them a decadent treat that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Perfect for special occasions or when you just feel like indulging, this dish promises elegance and taste in every bite.
Steps
- Butterfly the Lobster Tails: Use kitchen shears to carefully cut through the top shell of each lobster tail, stopping at the base. Crack the ribs on the underside to help open the shell, then gently lift the meat out, keeping it attached at the base, and rest it on top of the shell.
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine parsley, pressed garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, olive oil, and lemon juice. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade for the lobster tails.
- Arrange and Season the Lobster Tails: Place the butterflied lobster tails in a baking dish with the exposed meat facing up. Evenly distribute the marinade over each tail and place small pieces of butter on top of the lobster meat to enhance flavor during cooking.
- Broil the Lobster Tails: Preheat your oven to broil at high heat, ensuring the rack is positioned so the lobster tails are about 6 inches from the top. Broil for 10-11 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and white, reaching an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Prepare the Garlic Lemon Butter: While the lobster tails are cooking, collect the drippings from the baking dish and add to a small saucepan with the remaining butter. Simmer gently, then remove from heat and serve as a dipping sauce alongside the lobster tails.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the cooked lobster tails to a serving platter and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve with lemon wedges and the garlic lemon butter for dipping to enhance the lobster’s rich flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 lobster tails, each weighing 5 to 6 ounces
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus additional for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, pressed
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
Nutritional Values
Calories: 800kcal | Carbs: 4g | Protein: 44g | Fat: 68g | Saturated Fat: 32g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 28g | Trans Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 440mg | Sodium: 1716mg | Potassium: 600mg | Fiber: 0.8g | Sugar: 0.8g | Vitamin A: 1752IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 248mg | Iron: 1.2mg
FAQ
- How do I butterfly a lobster tail?
- To butterfly a lobster tail, use kitchen scissors to cut through the top shell, stopping at the base. Crack the ribs on the underside to help open the shell. Carefully lift the meat out, keeping it attached at the base, and rest it over the shell.
- What is the best way to cook lobster tails?
- Broiling is recommended for cooking lobster tails as it locks in the flavor while keeping the meat tender and juicy. It is also a quick method, making it preferable to boiling or baking.
- How should I prepare the garlic lemon butter sauce?
- To prepare the sauce, combine the pan drippings from the cooked lobster with butter in a saucepan. Bring it to a simmer and then remove from heat. This can be poured over the lobster or used as a dipping sauce.
- How can I tell when my lobster tails are fully cooked?
- Lobster tails are done when the meat is opaque and white in the center, and the internal temperature reaches 145°F. The shell should turn bright red, and the meat should feel firm to the touch.
- What are some good side dishes to serve with lobster tails?
- Lobster tails pair well with simple sides like mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, Caesar salad, roasted cauliflower, risotto, or sourdough dinner rolls. These dishes complement the rich flavor of lobster without overshadowing it.
Tips
- Properly Butterfly the Lobster Tails: Use kitchen shears to carefully cut through the top shell of the lobster tail. This technique will help ensure even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
- Broiling for Optimal Flavor: Broiling locks in the lobster’s natural flavors and provides a succulent, tender texture. Keep the lobster tails at least 6 inches from the broiler to prevent burning.
- Monitor Cooking Time Closely: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the lobster meat reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Overcooking can make the meat tough and rubbery, so adhere to recommended timings based on tail size.
- Enhance with a Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce: After broiling, combine the pan drippings with additional butter to create a rich dipping sauce. This enhances the lobster’s flavors and provides a luxurious finishing touch.
Equipment
- Kitchen Shears – Essential for cutting through the lobster tail shell.
- Instant-Read Thermometer – To ensure the lobster is cooked to the correct internal temperature.
- Roasting Pan (9×13 or 8×12) – For arranging and cooking the lobster tails.
- Small Saucepan – For making the garlic lemon butter sauce.