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Perfect Grilled Lobster Tails with Herb Butter

grilled lobster tails with herb butter - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for succulent grilled lobster tails brushed with a flavorful herb butter, perfect for special occasions or a delicious seafood treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large lobster tails (68 ounces / 170225 grams each), fresh or thawed if frozen
  • Sea salt, to taste (Maldon flaky sea salt recommended)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
  • Pinch of smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the lobster tails under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Using sharp kitchen scissors, carefully cut down the top shell lengthwise, stopping just before the tail fan (about 3-4 inches). Gently pry the shell open to expose the meat, then lift the meat slightly and rest it on top of the shell.
  2. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, lemon zest, and smoked paprika if using. Mix well until creamy and evenly blended. Set aside.
  3. Preheat your grill to medium-high, aiming for around 375-400°F (190-205°C). If using charcoal, let the coals burn down to embers. Clean and lightly oil the grates.
  4. Lightly sprinkle the lobster meat with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Generously brush half of the herb butter onto the exposed lobster meat, saving the rest for later.
  5. Place the lobster tails meat side up on the grill. Close the lid and cook for about 8-10 minutes, basting occasionally with more herb butter. The lobster meat should turn opaque and firm with an internal temperature around 140°F (60°C).
  6. Remove the lobster tails from the grill and brush with the remaining herb butter. Let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Notes

If lobster tails brown too quickly, move to indirect heat and close the lid to finish cooking gently. Use kitchen scissors for safer shell cutting. Rest lobster tails after grilling to redistribute juices. For dairy-free, substitute butter with dairy-free butter or coconut oil. Lobster tails are naturally gluten-free; check butter brand if concerned.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled lobster tails, herb butter, seafood recipe, easy lobster recipe, summer BBQ, seafood grill, lobster dinner