If you’ve ever dreamed of bringing a touch of seaside elegance to your dinner table, this Lobster Tail Recipe with Garlic Lemon Butter Recipe is the perfect way to make it happen. Tender lobster meat pairs beautifully with a zesty lemon butter sauce infused with garlic and fresh parsley, creating a dish that’s both luxurious and surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether for a special occasion or a weekend treat, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with straightforward steps that anyone can master.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Lobster Tail Recipe with Garlic Lemon Butter Recipe lies in its simplicity and freshness. Each ingredient plays a vital role in balancing the rich lobster flavor with bright and savory notes, making every bite a delight.
- 4 lobster tails (5 to 6 oz each): The star of the dish, choose fresh or thawed lobster tails for the best texture and flavor.
- 1 Tbsp fresh parsley (very finely chopped, plus more for garnish): Adds a pop of vibrant color and fresh herbaceous notes that brighten the dish.
- 2 garlic cloves (pressed): Infuses the butter with a warm, aromatic depth that complements the sweetness of the lobster.
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and helps emulsify the sauce, giving it a smooth finish.
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the delicate lobster meat.
- 1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper: Provides just a touch of spice to balance the richness.
- 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil: Adds a fruity richness and helps in sautéing the garlic gently.
- 1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice: Brings brightness and acidity that cut through the butter for perfect balance.
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter (divided): The luscious base for the garlic lemon butter sauce that makes this lobster truly irresistible.
How to Make Lobster Tail Recipe with Garlic Lemon Butter Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails
Start by thawing your lobster tails if they’re frozen, then using kitchen scissors, carefully cut down the top of the shell to expose the meat. Gently lift the meat out while keeping it attached at the base, resting it on top of the shell for an elegant presentation. This not only looks impressive but ensures even cooking.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the pressed garlic cloves. Sauté until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute. Reduce the heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of the butter, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and finely chopped parsley. Let the butter melt completely and the flavors meld together into a silky sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Lobster Tails
Brush the lobster meat generously with the warm garlic lemon butter sauce. Place the tails under a preheated broiler or on a grill over medium-high heat for about 8 to 10 minutes, basting once more halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when the lobster meat is opaque and firm to the touch.
Step 4: Finish with Butter
Once cooked, remove the lobster tails from heat and brush with the remaining melted butter to keep the meat moist and enhance the glossy, appetizing appearance. Garnish with additional fresh parsley for that final inviting touch.
How to Serve Lobster Tail Recipe with Garlic Lemon Butter Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing with delicately chopped fresh parsley adds a fresh burst of color that contrasts beautifully with the golden butter sauce. A thin lemon wedge or twist on the side invites an extra squeeze of brightness if desired.
Side Dishes
Pair this luscious lobster with light, complementary sides like a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or buttery garlic mashed potatoes for a comforting touch. Steamed asparagus or roasted baby carrots add texture and vibrant color to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fancy dinner, serve your lobster tails on a bed of aromatic rice or quinoa, drizzled with any leftover garlic lemon butter sauce. Arrange on a platter with colorful microgreens, edible flowers, or even sprinkle some smoked paprika for a hint of warmth and drama.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any lobster tail leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days, making a delicious lunch or quick dinner the next day.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap cooked lobster tails tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or seal in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. Properly stored, they can last for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat lobster tails gently to avoid toughening the meat. Warm them in a low oven (around 275°F) wrapped in foil for about 10 minutes or steam lightly until heated through. A quick brush of warmed garlic lemon butter helps restore that fresh-from-the-kitchen flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen lobster tails for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them fully in the refrigerator overnight and pat dry before prep to ensure even cooking and the best texture.
Is it okay to substitute fresh lemon juice with bottled lemon juice?
While fresh lemon juice provides a brighter, fresher flavor, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch. Just start with less and adjust to taste, as bottled juice can be more acidic.
Can I make the garlic lemon butter sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a few hours ahead and rewarm gently before use. This can actually help the flavors meld beautifully, but avoid keeping it hot for long periods to preserve freshness.
How do I know when the lobster tails are perfectly cooked?
The meat should be opaque, firm but springy to the touch, and pull away easily from the shell. Overcooking will make it rubbery, so keep a close eye near the end of the cooking time.
Can I cook these lobster tails on a grill instead of the broiler?
Yes! Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor and charred notes. Just keep the grill at medium-high heat and watch carefully to prevent burning while ensuring the lobster cooks through.
Final Thoughts
This Lobster Tail Recipe with Garlic Lemon Butter Recipe feels like a special celebration every time you make it. The fantastic combination of buttery garlic and bright lemon elevates the natural sweetness of lobster to new heights, making guests ask for seconds. I truly encourage you to give this recipe a whirl—it’s simpler than it looks, utterly delicious, and a beautiful way to treat yourself or someone you love.
Print
Lobster Tail Recipe with Garlic Lemon Butter Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (4 lobster tails)
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Lobster Tail Recipe with Garlic Lemon Butter is a luxurious and easy-to-make seafood dish featuring tender lobster tails broiled to perfection and bathed in a rich, flavorful garlic lemon butter sauce. Perfect for special occasions or an indulgent dinner, this recipe yields four succulent lobster tails infused with fresh parsley, garlic, and a hint of Dijon mustard for extra depth.
Ingredients
Lobster Tails
- 4 lobster tails (5 to 6 oz each)
Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
- 1 Tbsp fresh parsley (very finely chopped, plus more for garnish)
- 2 garlic cloves (pressed)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
- 1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
Instructions
- Prepare the Lobster Tails: Using kitchen shears, carefully cut through the top shell of each lobster tail to expose the meat. Gently lift the meat out of the shell, keeping it attached at the base, and rest it on top of the shell for an attractive presentation.
- Make the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the pressed garlic cloves and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the fresh parsley, Dijon mustard, sea salt, black pepper, olive oil, and fresh lemon juice. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Brush the Lobster Tails: Preheat the broiler in your oven. Place the prepared lobster tails on a baking sheet. Generously brush the exposed lobster meat with the garlic lemon butter sauce, reserving some for serving.
- Broil the Lobster Tails: Broil the lobster tails 4-6 inches from the heat source for about 10-12 minutes or until the lobster meat is opaque, white, and slightly browned around the edges. Avoid overcooking to keep the meat tender.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from oven, brush again with remaining garlic lemon butter sauce, garnish with extra chopped parsley, and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Use fresh lobster tails from a reliable seafood vendor for the best flavor and texture.
- Be careful not to overcook the lobster to prevent toughness.
- You can prepare the garlic lemon butter sauce ahead of time and gently reheat before serving.
- Pair this dish with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
