Lemon Garlic Lobster Tails are a luxurious and delicious seafood dish that’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to something extraordinary. This recipe combines tender lobster tails with a rich, buttery lemon garlic sauce that enhances the natural sweetness of the lobster. With simple preparation and a few fresh ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish at home. Let’s dive into this delectable recipe and learn how to make Lemon Garlic Lobster Tails step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 4 lobster tails (5 to 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, very finely chopped, plus more for garnish
- 2 garlic cloves, pressed
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails
- Butterfly the Lobster Tails:
- Using kitchen shears, cut down the center of the top shell of each lobster tail, from the base to the tail fin. Be careful not to cut the meat. Pull apart the shell slightly to expose the meat. Gently lift the meat out of the shell, keeping it attached at the base, and lay it on top of the shell.
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place the lobster tails on the sheet.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped parsley, pressed garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, olive oil, and fresh lemon juice.
- Melt Butter:
- Melt 2 tablespoons of the unsalted butter in a microwave-safe dish or a small saucepan.
- Combine:
- Stir the melted butter into the lemon garlic mixture until well combined.
Step 3: Brush and Bake the Lobster Tails
- Brush with Lemon Garlic Butter:
- Brush the exposed lobster meat generously with the lemon garlic butter mixture, ensuring it’s well coated.
- Bake:
- Place the lobster tails in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C).
Step 4: Make Additional Lemon Garlic Butter
- Melt Remaining Butter:
- While the lobster tails are baking, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Add Lemon Garlic Mixture:
- Stir in any remaining lemon garlic mixture into the melted butter. Heat until just warmed through.
Step 5: Serve
- Drizzle and Garnish:
- Remove the lobster tails from the oven and drizzle with the warm lemon garlic butter. Garnish with additional finely chopped parsley.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Lemon Garlic Lobster Tails hot, alongside your favorite side dishes, and enjoy this luxurious seafood treat!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Lobster: Fresh lobster tails are ideal for this recipe. If using frozen lobster tails, thaw them completely in the refrigerator before preparing.
- Butterflying: Butterflying the lobster tails allows the marinade to penetrate the meat better and helps them cook more evenly.
- Doneness: Avoid overcooking the lobster to prevent it from becoming tough. The meat should be opaque and tender when done.
Variations
Spicy Lemon Garlic Lobster Tails
- Add Spice:
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the lemon garlic butter mixture for a spicy kick.
Herb Lemon Garlic Lobster Tails
- Add Herbs:
- Add 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme or rosemary to the lemon garlic butter mixture for a fragrant herb flavor.
Grilled Lemon Garlic Lobster Tails
- Grill Instead:
- Instead of baking, grill the lobster tails over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, basting with the lemon garlic butter.
Serving Suggestions
With Sides
- With Rice:
- Serve with a side of steamed rice or risotto for a complete meal.
- With Vegetables:
- Pair with steamed asparagus, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh salad.
With Bread
- With Garlic Bread:
- Serve with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the delicious lemon garlic butter.
- With Dinner Rolls:
- Pair with warm dinner rolls for a comforting addition.
Beverages
- With White Wine:
- Enjoy with a glass of chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for a classic pairing.
- With Sparkling Water:
- Serve with sparkling water or lemonade for a refreshing drink.
FAQs
Q: Can I use pre-cooked lobster tails? A: Pre-cooked lobster tails can be used, but reduce the baking time to 5-7 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover lobster tails in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I make the lemon garlic butter ahead of time? A: Yes, the lemon garlic butter can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before using.
Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice? A: Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
Q: Can I use a different type of mustard? A: Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang, but you can use whole-grain or yellow mustard for a different flavor.
Lemon Garlic Lobster Tails are a luxurious and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any special occasion. With its tender lobster meat and rich lemon garlic butter, this recipe brings a touch of elegance to your table. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this dish is easy to make and always impressive. Enjoy making and sharing these delectable Lemon Garlic Lobster Tails with your family and friends!
