Succulent Grilled Lobster Tail with Rich Butter Gravy
Nutritional value per serving
Calories300kcal
Carbs4gram
Fat18gram
Protein25gram
Ingredients
- Lobster tails (fresh or thawed)2 pieces
- Unsalted butter50 g
- Garlic cloves, minced (choose fresh, firm cloves)2 pieces
- Fresh lemon juice (from about 1 lemon, choose firm and heavy lemons)2 tbsp
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped1 tbsp
- Saltto taste n/a
- Black pepperto taste n/a
This recipe guides you through grilling lobster tails to perfection, topped with a rich and flavorful butter gravy that elevates the dish. Using simple ingredients and clear steps, even beginner home cooks can achieve a beautiful, restaurant-quality seafood dinner. The total cost of ingredients is approximately $15 USD (€14, £12, ₹1200). Each serving contains roughly 300 kcal. This dish is ideal for pescatarian diets, has medium complexity due to the grilling technique, and takes about 30 minutes total time.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the Lobster Tails
1Use kitchen scissors or a sharp knife to cut through the top shell of the lobster tail lengthwise, stopping just before the tail fin. Gently lift the lobster meat out of the shell, keeping it attached at the tail end, and rest it on top of the shell. This helps the lobster cook evenly and look attractive when grilled.
Preheat the Grill
2Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 200°C or 400°F). Clean the grill grates thoroughly and oil them lightly to prevent sticking.
Make the Butter Gravy
3In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Keep warm.
Grill the Lobster Tails
4Place lobster tails meat side down on the grill and close the lid. Grill for about 5 minutes. Turn the tails meat side up and continue grilling for another 3-5 minutes, brushing occasionally with some butter gravy. The lobster is done when the meat is opaque, firm to the touch, and the internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy and food safety.
Serve
5Remove lobster tails from the grill and spoon additional butter gravy over the top. Serve immediately with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Tips
-Use a seafood or instant-read thermometer to check the lobster's internal temperature and avoid overcooking, which can make the meat tough.
-If you don’t have a grill, you can broil the lobster tails in your oven using similar timings.
-Keep raw lobster and utensils separate from cooked lobster to avoid cross-contamination.
-For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper into the butter gravy.
Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Kitchen scissors or sharp knife
- Small saucepan
- Basting brush
- Meat thermometer
- Tongs
Shopping List
- [ ] Lobster tails (2 pieces, fresh or frozen, approx. $12): Choose tails with firm flesh and a fresh sea scent if buying fresh. For frozen, select those without freezer burn.
- [ ] Unsalted butter (50g, approx. $1): Preferably use high-quality butter for best flavor.
- [ ] Garlic cloves (2 pieces, approx. $0.50): Look for firm, dry cloves without any sprouting.
- [ ] Fresh lemon (1 piece, approx. $0.50): Choose heavy lemons with a bright yellow skin for juiciness.
- [ ] Fresh parsley (small bunch, approx. $0.50): Fresh and bright green.
- [ ] Salt & black pepper (to taste, pantry staples)
Total estimated cost: $15
FAQ
How do I know when the lobster tail is fully cooked?
The lobster meat becomes opaque and firm. Use a thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F) to ensure it is safe to eat.
Can I use frozen lobster tails?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking.
What if I don’t have a grill?
You can broil the lobster tails in the oven using similar cooking times and brush with butter gravy as described.