GARLIC BUTTER GRILLED LOBSTER TAIL
This Garlic Butter Grilled Lobster Tail is a mouthwatering seafood dish that combines rich, buttery flavours with a smoky char from the grill. The tender lobster meat is infused with the aromatic blend of garlic, butter and fresh lemon juice, creating a perfect balance of richness and acidity. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or want to elevate your seafood game, this recipe is simple yet impressive. The grilling process enhances the natural sweetness of the lobster while the butter keeps it juicy and succulent. It is an elegant dish that requires minimal ingredients but delivers maximum flavour. Serve it with a side of grilled vegetables, a crisp salad or even over a bed of pasta for a truly indulgent meal. Perfect for summer barbecues, date nights or a gourmet weeknight dinner, this garlic butter grilled lobster tail is sure to impress.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Dinner, Entrée, Appetisers
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
American, Mediterranean
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
5 ingredients or less, Barbecue / Grill, Pan-Fry, Roast
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Anniversary, Backyard BBQ, Birthday, Christmas Eve, Cocktail Party, Easter, Engagement Party, Fall, Family Reunion, Fourth Of July, New Year’s Eve, Summer, Wedding, Winter
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Healthy, High Protein, Low Carb, Quick and Easy, Low Fat, Gluten-Free, Keto-Friendly
DISH TYPE
Seafood, Grilled Dish, Appetiser
INGREDIENTS
There are the following ingredients for Garlic Butter Grilled Lobster Tail:
- 1 small lobster tail
- ½ garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp butter, melted
- ½ tsp lemon juice
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fibre: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
PREPARATION
- Prepare the Lobster: Using kitchen shears, carefully cut through the top of the lobster shell lengthwise to expose the meat. Gently pull the meat out while keeping it attached at the tail, then rest it on top of the shell for an elegant presentation.
- Season the Lobster: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic and lemon juice. Brush the mixture generously over the lobster meat, ensuring it seeps into the crevices for maximum flavour.
- Preheat the Grill: Set your grill to a medium-high flame (around 400°F/200°C). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Lobster: Place the lobster tail shell-side down on the grill. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes, basting occasionally with the garlic butter, until the meat is opaque and slightly firm to the touch.
- Final Touch: Remove the lobster from the grill and brush with any remaining garlic butter. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and optional fresh herbs for garnish.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
7 minutes
TIPS
- Use fresh lobster: Fresh lobster tails will yield the best flavour and texture, but frozen lobster can be used if properly thawed.
- Don’t overcook: Lobster meat turns rubbery when overcooked. Remove from heat as soon as it turns opaque.
- Baste frequently: Regularly brushing the lobster with butter helps lock in moisture and enhances the smoky flavour.
- Add extra flavour: Sprinkle with fresh parsley, chives or a pinch of cayenne for an added flavour boost.
- Alternative cooking method: If you don’t have a grill, broil the lobster in the oven on high for 6-8 minutes.
VARIATIONS
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter mixture.
- Herb Butter: Mix in chopped parsley, thyme or chives for a fresh, aromatic touch.
- Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or Gruyère cheese over the lobster before grilling for a rich, indulgent finish.
- Citrus Infusion: Swap lemon juice with lime juice or orange zest for a different citrus flavour profile.
- Garlic Butter Lobster Pasta: Serve the grilled lobster tail over buttered pasta with an extra drizzle of garlic butter sauce.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store leftover lobster in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) to avoid drying out.
- Freezing: Cooked lobster meat can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a sealed container.
- Meal Prep: Marinate the lobster in the garlic butter mixture for 30 minutes before grilling to deepen the flavours.