Lobster Tail Recipe

I’ve always believed that some meals can transport you to a different place, and nothing does that quite like a perfectly prepared Lobster Tail Recipe. Growing up, special occasions were often celebrated with a feast featuring these succulent treasures from the sea. The aroma of fresh lobster being broiled with garlic and herbs fills the air, and I can almost hear the sound of laughter as family and friends gather around the table, eager to dig in. There’s something magical about the first bite—the tender meat, the rich butter, and that hint of lemon that brightens it all up. Whether it’s a summer birthday bash or an intimate dinner for two, this dish is always a showstopper. I love how it’s simple yet feels so luxurious, making it the perfect choice for any celebration.

Key Ingredients for Lobster Tail Recipe

Each ingredient in this Lobster Tail Recipe plays a crucial role in creating a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. The key players—fresh lobster tails, aromatic garlic, and zesty lemon juice—work harmoniously to elevate this seafood classic.

• Lobster tails: Fresh and succulent, they are the star of the dish, providing a rich flavor and tender texture.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that complements the lobster beautifully.
• Garlic: When pressed, it releases an aromatic punch that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Dijon mustard: Provides a subtle tang that balances the richness of the lobster.
• Fine sea salt: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth to the overall taste.
• Olive oil: Helps to keep the lobster moist during cooking while adding a fruity flavor.
• Lemon juice: Brightens the dish and adds a refreshing citrus touch that complements the seafood.
• Unsalted butter: The creamy richness is crucial for making the lobster luxurious and indulgent.

The Process for Making Lobster Tail Recipe

Getting started on this Lobster Tail Recipe is easier than you might think. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be indulging in a delicious seafood feast. Let’s dive right into the process!

1. Cut the Shell: Begin by using kitchen scissors to carefully cut through the top shell of the lobster tail, stopping just at the base. As you cut, take care to snip through the top portion of the meat, which will help in the following steps.

2. Crack the Ribs: Turn the lobster tail over so you can see the back side, and gently crack the ribs in the center. This action will aid in opening the shell further, allowing for an easier presentation of the meat.

3. Butterfly: Carefully open the shell using your thumbs and fingers, loosening the meat from the shell. If you see a vein, remove it. Lift the meat from the shell, keeping it attached at the base. The lobster meat should now rest nicely on top of the shell.

4. Prep: Position your rack in the upper third or center of the oven to ensure the meaty tops of your lobster tails will be at least six inches from the heating element. Preheat your oven to broil on high heat, getting it nice and hot.

5. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the marinade ingredients, including one tablespoon of parsley, the two pressed garlic cloves, one teaspoon of dijon mustard, one-quarter teaspoon of fine sea salt, one-eighth teaspoon of black pepper, one and a half tablespoons of olive oil, and one and a half tablespoons of lemon juice. Stir well to combine.

6. Arrange: Place the butterflied lobster tails into a roasting pan, either 9×13 or 8×12 in size. Evenly divide the marinade over the tops of each tail, ensuring every piece is coated. Dot each tail generously with half a tablespoon of butter, cut into smaller pieces.

7. Broil: Slide the pan under the broiler and cook the lobster tails on high heat for about 10 to 11 minutes, or according to the size of the tails. The meat should turn opaque and white in the center, ideally reaching a temperature of 145˚F when checked with an instant-read thermometer.

8. Transfer and Garnish: Once cooked, carefully transfer the lobster tails to a serving platter. If you like, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving.

9. Make the Garlic Lemon Butter: To create a delicious dipping sauce, drain the drippings from the roasting pan into a small saucepan. Combine it with the remaining two tablespoons of butter, bring to a simmer, and then remove it from the heat. Serve this sauce either drizzled over the lobster tails or in ramekins for dipping.

Helpful Notes about Lobster Tail Recipe

Before diving into this Lobster Tail Recipe, it’s helpful to review some tips to ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

• Storage: Store any leftover lobster in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.
• Freezing: If you have any leftover cooked lobster, you can freeze it. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with light sides like a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. A nice crusty bread also complements it well.
• Serving Size: Remember that lobster tails can be quite filling. Plan on one to two tails per person, depending on your guests’ appetites.
• Presentation: For an elegant touch, serve the lobster tails with lemon wedges and a side of melted butter for dipping.

Side Dish Ideas for Lobster Tail Recipe

When serving your Lobster Tail Recipe, consider these delightful side dishes to complement the meal:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic provide a comforting contrast to the rich lobster.
• Steamed Asparagus: Crisp asparagus, lightly seasoned with lemon, makes a vibrant and fresh side that pairs excellently.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing palate cleanser alongside the buttery lobster.
• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs can soak up any extra sauce from the lobster for a satisfying bite.
• Grilled Corn: Sweet grilled corn on the cob adds a fun, summery touch to your plate.
• Crusty Bread: A basket of warm, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover garlic butter sauce.
• Seasonal Vegetable Medley: A simple sauté of seasonal vegetables brings color and health benefits to your meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

This Lobster Tail Recipe is truly special, combining simplicity and sophistication in every bite. The tender, succulent meat paired with butter and lemon creates a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe at home and bring a little taste of the ocean to your dinner table. You won’t regret indulging in this delicious experience!

Lobster Tail Recipe

The ultimate indulgence, this Lobster Tail Recipe combines succulent lobster with rich butter and zesty lemon for a dish that feels luxurious yet is simple to prepare. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home, you'll love how easy it is to impress your guests with this delightful seafood dish.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 lobster tails Lobster tails 5 to 6 oz each
• 1 Tbsp Fresh parsley very finely chopped, plus more for garnish
• 2 garlic cloves Garlic pressed
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 tsp Fine sea salt
• 1/8 tsp Freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 1/2 Tbsp Olive oil
• 1 1/2 Tbsp Fresh lemon juice
• 4 Tbsp Unsalted butter divided

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Oven
• Wooden Spoon
• Baking Sheet
• Chef's Knife
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. Cut the Shell: Use kitchen scissors to cut through the top shell of the lobster tail, stopping at the base of the tail and snipping through the top portion of the meat as you go.
2. Crack the Ribs: Flip the tail over to the back see-through side and crack the ribs in the center. This will help open the shell.
3. Butterfly: Open the shell carefully using thumbs and fingers and loosen meat from the shell. Lift the meat from the shell, keeping it attached at the base. Press the shell together and set the lobster meat over the top. Most of the lobster meat should be sitting on top of the shell.
4. Prep: Place rack in upper third or center of the oven so the meaty tops of your lobster tails will be at least 6 inches from the top heating element. Preheat oven to broil on high heat.
5. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, stir together marinade ingredients: 1 Tbsp parsley, 2 garlic cloves, 1 tsp dijon, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/8 tsp pepper, 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil and 1 1/2 Tbsp lemon juice.
6. Arrange: Place butterflied Lobster Tails into a 9×13 or 8×12 roasting pan. Divide marinade evenly over the tops of each lobster tail and dot each tail all over with 1/2 Tbsp of butter cut into smaller pieces.
7. Broil: Broil lobster tails on high heat 10-11 min (or according to the lobster tail size – see chart). When done, lobster meat should be opaque and white in the center and register 145˚F on an instant read thermometer.
8. Transfer: Transfer to serving platter and garnish with parsley if desired.
9. Make the Garlic Lemon Butter: Drain drippings from the roasting pan into a small saucepan and combine with remaining 2 Tbsp butter, bring to a simmer and remove from heat. Pour over lobster tails or divide into ramekins and use as dipping sauce.

Notes

• Smaller: (3 to 4 oz) lobster tail 6 to 8 minutes
• Medium: (5 to 6 oz) lobster tail 10-11 minutes
• Larger: (7 to 9 oz) lobsters tail 12-15 minutes (with rack in the middle of the oven)

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Meet Maya Warren

Our main recipe developer and resident forager. My passion is cooking with what the season gives us, whether it’s wild mushrooms from the woods or fresh berries from the garden. I work with Chloe to create our main dishes and with Tessa on new flavor ideas for her bakes. I love the challenge of turning a fresh, raw ingredient into something magical.