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Perfect Garlic Butter Lobster Tails Recipe for Two

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An easy and elegant recipe for tender lobster tails bursting with buttery garlic flavor, perfect for a romantic or celebratory meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lobster tails, about 6-8 ounces (170225 grams) each
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (about 60 grams), melted
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced finely
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (about 15 ml)
  • Zest from half a lemon
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil (5 ml), to brush the lobster shells before broiling

Instructions

  1. Prep the lobster tails (10 minutes): Using kitchen shears, carefully cut down the center of the top shell of each lobster tail, stopping just before the tail fin. Gently pry the shell open and loosen the meat, lifting it slightly to rest on top of the shell.
  2. Make the garlic butter sauce (5 minutes): In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. Preheat your broiler: Position the oven rack about 6 inches (15 cm) from the heat source and preheat to high broil (around 500°F / 260°C).
  4. Brush the lobster tails: Coat the lobster meat generously with the garlic butter mixture using a basting brush, making sure to get some minced garlic on top. Brush a thin layer of olive oil on the exposed shell.
  5. Broil the lobster tails (8-10 minutes): Place the lobster tails on a baking sheet and broil. When the lobster meat turns opaque and lightly browned, and reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C), it is done.
  6. Optional final butter baste: Halfway through broiling, baste again with garlic butter for extra richness.
  7. Rest and serve (2 minutes): Let the lobster tails rest before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Do not overcook lobster tails to avoid rubbery texture. Use fresh garlic for best flavor. Dry lobster tails before buttering for better adhesion. Optional to baste halfway through broiling for extra richness. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently in a low oven.

Nutrition

Keywords: lobster tails, garlic butter, seafood, easy recipe, broiled lobster, romantic dinner, elegant meal