Broiled Lobster Tails with Herb Butter
This recipe delivers perfectly cooked lobster tails bathed in a flavorful herb butter.
Ingredients:
- 2 whole lobster tails (about 6-8 ounces each), thawed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Cooking Guide:
-
Prep the Lobster:
Thaw lobster tails in the refrigerator overnight or by submerging them in a cold-water bath for 30 minutes. Pat them dry with paper towels. Using sharp kitchen shears, cut through the top of the lobster tail shells lengthwise. Carefully pry the shells open, exposing the flesh. -
Make the Herb Butter:
In a small bowl, combine softened butter, parsley, chives, garlic, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and pepper. Using a fork, mash everything together until well incorporated. -
Broil the Lobster:
Preheat your broiler to high (around 500°F). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Place the lobster tails flesh-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Spread the herb butter generously over the lobster meat. -
Broil and Serve:
Position the oven rack so the lobster tails are about 4-5 inches from the broiler. Broil for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the flesh is opaque and slightly browned on top. The internal temperature should reach 140°F for a perfectly cooked, tender texture. -
Serve Immediately:
Carefully remove the lobster tails from the oven and transfer them to plates. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over the lobster meat.
Tips:
- Don’t Overcook: Lobster cooks quickly. Keep an eye on it while broiling to avoid overcooked, tough meat.
- Check for Doneness: To check for doneness, gently insert a thermometer into the thickest part of the lobster tail. The internal temperature should be 140°F for perfectly cooked lobster.
- Garlic Butter Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs in the herb butter. Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy kick.
- Special Occasion: For a more impressive presentation, broil the lobster tails shell-side down for the first half of cooking, then flip them over and add the herb butter for the final broiling.