Lemon Garlic Lobster Tails are a delicious and elegant dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. Here’s a recipe that highlights the natural sweetness of the lobster with the bright, zesty flavors of lemon and garlic.
Ingredients
- 4 lobster tails
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare Lobster Tails:
- Using kitchen shears, cut down the middle of the top shell of each lobster tail, starting from the base and cutting towards the end of the tail. Be careful not to cut into the meat.
- Gently pull the lobster meat upward, separating it from the shell, but keep it attached at the base. Lay the meat on top of the shell.
- Make the Lemon Garlic Butter:
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and paprika. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Brush the Lobster Tails:
- Place the prepared lobster tails on the lined baking sheet.
- Generously brush the lobster meat with the lemon garlic butter mixture.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C).
- During the last few minutes of baking, you can turn on the broiler to give the lobster meat a bit of a golden brown color, if desired. Just keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the lobster tails from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Tips
- Buying Lobster Tails: Look for fresh, high-quality lobster tails at your seafood market. Frozen lobster tails can also be used; just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
- Cooking Evenly: Make sure the lobster tails are similar in size to ensure even cooking.
- Flavor Variations: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or sprinkle with a little grated Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor.
Enjoy your Lemon Garlic Lobster Tails with a side of your favorite vegetable, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal!
