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Perfect Lobster Tail with Garlic Butter Recipe for Two

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A quick and easy recipe for perfectly broiled lobster tails slathered in a flavorful garlic butter sauce, ideal for intimate dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lobster tails (about 68 ounces each; fresh or thawed frozen lobster tails)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your broiler to high and position a rack about 6 inches from the heat source.
  2. Rinse and pat dry the lobster tails. Using kitchen shears, carefully cut down the top of the shell lengthwise, stopping just before the tail fin. Gently pry the shell apart and lift the meat up, resting it on top of the shell (piggybacking).
  3. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth. Add smoked paprika or cayenne if desired.
  4. Brush the lobster meat generously with about half of the garlic butter mixture, coating every nook and cranny. Reserve the rest for basting during cooking.
  5. Place the lobster tails on a lined baking sheet or broiler pan and slide into the preheated oven.
  6. Broil for 8-12 minutes, depending on size. Halfway through cooking, baste with more garlic butter.
  7. Check doneness by ensuring the lobster meat is opaque and firm to the touch or using a meat thermometer aiming for 140°F (60°C).
  8. Remove from the oven and let rest for a couple of minutes. Spoon any remaining garlic butter over the top before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook lobster tails to avoid rubbery texture. Use softened butter for best coating. Let lobster rest after cooking to redistribute juices. Broiler rack should be about 6 inches from heat source. Garlic can be minced finely or pressed for creamy consistency.

Nutrition

Keywords: lobster tail, garlic butter, seafood, broiled lobster, easy lobster recipe, dinner for two, quick seafood