Garlic Butter Lobster Tails

Description:

Garlic Butter Lobster Tails are a luxurious and indulgent seafood dish that will make any meal feel like a special occasion. Tender lobster meat is bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce, then broiled to perfection for a golden, flavorful finish. This simple yet decadent dish is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to an elegant dinner.

Origin:

Lobster tails are a popular dish in coastal cuisine, particularly in North America, where lobster is abundant. The addition of garlic butter has become a beloved way to elevate the delicate flavor of lobster, creating a dish that is both flavorful and indulgent.

Ingredients:

• 4 lobster tails (fresh or thawed if frozen)
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

Prepare the Lobster Tails:

1. Preheat your broiler on high and position the oven rack 6-8 inches from the heat source.
2. Using kitchen shears or a sharp knife, cut down the center of the lobster tail’s top shell, exposing the meat.
3. Gently pull the lobster meat out of the shell, keeping it attached at the base, and rest it on top of the shell. This technique is known as “piggybacking.”
4. Place the prepared lobster tails on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper.

Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce:

5. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Broil the Lobster Tails:

6. Spoon the garlic butter sauce generously over each lobster tail, ensuring the meat is well coated.
7. Broil the lobster tails for 8-10 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and lightly browned on top. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C). Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
8. During the last minute of broiling, baste the lobster tails with more garlic butter for added flavor and richness.

Serve:

9. Once the lobster tails are done, remove them from the oven and drizzle with any remaining garlic butter sauce.
10. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for Success:

• Be careful not to overcook the lobster tails. They cook quickly, and overcooking will result in tough, rubbery meat.
• If you prefer a more intense garlic flavor, you can add extra garlic to the butter mixture or even roast garlic for a sweeter, milder taste.
• You can also grill the lobster tails instead of broiling them for a different flavor profile.

Recommendations:

• Serve these Garlic Butter Lobster Tails with a side of steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
• Pair with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for a delightful pairing.
• Leftover lobster can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain tenderness.

Nutrition (per serving, approximate for 4 servings):

• Calories: ~330
• Protein: 33g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Sugar: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 580mg

These Garlic Butter Lobster Tails will impress any seafood lover with their delicate flavor, buttery richness, and perfect texture!