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Perfect Grilled Lobster Tail Recipe with Easy Lemon Butter Sauce for Two

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A quick and easy grilled lobster tail recipe for two, featuring a rich and tangy lemon butter sauce that perfectly complements the smoky, tender lobster meat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lobster tails (about 68 ounces or 170225 g each, fresh or thawed frozen)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon, freshly squeezed)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or chives

Instructions

  1. Rinse the lobster tails under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Using kitchen shears, carefully cut down the top shell lengthwise, stopping just before the tail fin. Gently pry the shell open and lift the meat, resting it on top of the shell without detaching it completely.
  2. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Set aside half of this sauce for basting during grilling; keep the rest for serving.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high, about 400°F (204°C). Oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking.
  4. Generously brush the exposed lobster meat with the lemon butter sauce reserved for basting. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  5. Place the lobster tails meat-side up on the grill. Close the lid and cook for 5-6 minutes. Then, baste again with lemon butter and grill for another 3-4 minutes, until the meat is opaque, firm to the touch, and registers 135°F (57°C) on an instant-read thermometer.
  6. Remove the lobster tails from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Spoon the remaining lemon butter sauce over the meat and garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.

Notes

Do not overcook the lobster to avoid rubbery texture. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness at 135°F (57°C). For a smoky flavor, add wood chips to the grill. If no grill is available, broil in the oven for 8-10 minutes, basting halfway through. For dairy-free, substitute butter with vegan butter or olive oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled lobster tail, lemon butter sauce, seafood recipe, easy lobster recipe, romantic dinner, quick seafood