Grilled Lobster Tail

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled Lobster Tail is quick, elegant, and full of rich flavor. The grilling method enhances the natural sweetness of the lobster while adding a touch of smokiness. It’s perfect for romantic dinners, celebrations, or summer cookouts. With minimal ingredients and a fast cook time, it’s both luxurious and easy to prepare. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and sauces.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Lobster tails (fresh or thawed if frozen)
• Olive oil or melted butter
• Garlic (minced)
• Lemon juice
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Directions

1. Prep the lobster tails: Use kitchen shears to cut through the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise, stopping at the tail. Gently loosen the meat from the shell and lift it slightly, keeping it attached at the base. Rest the meat on top of the shell for presentation.
2. Make the garlic butter: In a small bowl, combine melted butter or olive oil with minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush and preheat: Brush the lobster meat generously with the garlic butter mixture. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F).
4. Grill the lobster tails: Place the tails flesh-side down on the grill. Cook for about 4–5 minutes, then flip and grill shell-side down for another 4–5 minutes, basting occasionally with the butter. The meat should be opaque and slightly charred.
5. Serve: Remove from grill, garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2 people (1 lobster tail per person). Prep time is 10 minutes, and cook time is about 8–10 minutes. Total time is approximately 20 minutes.

Variations

• Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the garlic butter.
• Herb twist: Mix in chopped thyme, rosemary, or dill for extra flavor.
• Citrus boost: Add orange zest or use lime juice instead of lemon for a twist.
• Surf and turf: Serve alongside grilled steak for a classic restaurant-style combo.
• Butter blend: Mix garlic butter with a splash of white wine or a dollop of Dijon mustard.

Storage/Reheating

Grilled lobster tails are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a covered skillet with a bit of butter over low heat or microwave briefly in short intervals, covered with a damp paper towel. Avoid overcooking, as it can make the lobster tough. Do not freeze after grilling.

FAQs

How do I know when lobster tail is cooked?

The meat should be opaque and white, with no translucent parts, and it should reach an internal temperature of 140–145°F.

Can I use frozen lobster tails?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking.

Should I boil lobster tails before grilling?

No, pre-boiling isn’t necessary. Grilling alone will fully cook and flavor the lobster.

Can I use butter instead of olive oil?

Absolutely. Butter enhances the richness and pairs perfectly with lobster.

What’s the best way to cut the lobster tail?

Use kitchen shears to cut through the top shell lengthwise, being careful not to cut through the bottom shell or the meat.

Can I grill lobster tails without the shell?

Yes, but keeping the shell on protects the meat and enhances presentation.

What kind of grill works best?

Both gas and charcoal grills work well. Charcoal will add more smoky flavor, while gas offers better control.

What sauces go well with grilled lobster tail?

Garlic butter, lemon aioli, hollandaise, or a light herb vinaigrette all pair beautifully.

Can I marinate lobster tail?

It’s not necessary, but a short soak in seasoned butter or citrus marinade can add depth of flavor.

What sides go well with grilled lobster?

Grilled vegetables, rice pilaf, roasted potatoes, corn on the cob, or a fresh salad all complement lobster perfectly.

Conclusion

Grilled Lobster Tail is a simple yet elegant dish that’s full of flavor and perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to treat yourself. With its tender meat, smoky char, and garlic butter glaze, it’s a show-stopping seafood recipe that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Serve it up with your favorite sides and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen.

Grilled Lobster Tail

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Grilled Lobster Tail is a simple yet luxurious seafood dish featuring tender lobster brushed with garlic butter and grilled to perfection. It’s smoky, flavorful, and perfect for special occasions or elegant dinners.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

• 2 lobster tails (fresh or thawed if frozen)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges, for serving

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Instructions

1. Use kitchen shears to cut through the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise, stopping at the tail. Gently loosen the meat and lift it slightly, keeping it attached at the base. Rest the meat on top of the shell.
2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil or melted butter with garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the lobster meat with the garlic butter mixture. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F).
4. Place lobster tails flesh-side down on the grill. Grill for 4–5 minutes, then flip and cook shell-side down for another 4–5 minutes, basting with remaining butter mixture. The meat should be opaque and slightly charred.
5. Remove from the grill, garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, and serve immediately.

Notes

• Use kitchen shears for easier and safer shell cutting.
• Don’t overcook—lobster becomes tough if grilled too long.
• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor in the garlic butter.
• Serve with melted butter or a light dipping sauce on the side.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 lobster tail
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 95mg