Flavorful Broiled Lobster Tails

This decadent lobster tail recipe transforms an intimidating seafood delicacy into a foolproof home cooking triumph. The combination of herb butter and perfectly broiled lobster creates a restaurant-quality experience right in your kitchen, making special occasions truly memorable without the hefty price tag.

I first prepared these lobster tails for my anniversary dinner when we couldn't get reservations at our favorite seafood restaurant. The look on my partner's face when I brought these to the table convinced me this recipe was worth keeping forever.

Ingredients

• Lobster tails: Choose cold water tails when possible for sweeter meat and firmer texture
• Unsalted butter: The foundation of our flavor base allowing us to control salt content
• Fresh chives: Adding a delicate onion flavor that complements seafood perfectly
• Fresh parsley: Brings brightness and color to the herb butter
• Lemon zest: Adds citrus aroma without making the dish too acidic
• Fresh garlic cloves: Infuses the butter with aromatic depth
• Salt: Enhances all flavors just use sparingly since lobster naturally has a salty essence

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the herb butter:

Soften butter at room temperature for about 30 minutes until pliable but not melted. Mix in lemon zest, minced herbs, pressed garlic, and a small pinch of salt until completely incorporated. The butter should be fragrant and speckled with herbs.

Butterfly the lobster tails:

Using kitchen shears, cut through the top shell from the open end toward the tail without cutting through the tail fin. Crack the ribs on the underside by gently pressing with your hands to allow the shell to open like a book. Carefully separate the meat from the shell sides while keeping it attached at the tail end. Lift the meat and rest it on top of the shell for an elegant presentation.

Season and butter:

Add a light sprinkle of salt over the exposed lobster meat. Take approximately two thirds of your prepared herb butter and divide it evenly among the lobster tails, spreading it generously over the meat. Reserve the remaining butter for finishing.

Broil to perfection:

Position your oven rack about 6 inches from the broiler and preheat on high. Place lobster tails on a baking sheet and broil until the meat turns opaque white and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F, typically 10-12 minutes for average sized tails. The shell will turn a beautiful bright red color indicating they are done.

Finish with melted butter:

Melt the remaining herb butter and brush it over the hot lobster meat just before serving for an extra layer of flavor and glossy appearance.

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My favorite part of this recipe is watching the transformation as the lobster shells turn from their natural blue-black to a vibrant red during cooking. It reminds me of summers in Maine where my grandparents would bring home fresh catches for special family gatherings.

Choosing the Best Lobster Tails

When shopping for lobster tails consider the source. Cold water lobsters from Maine or Canada typically have whiter, sweeter meat and firmer texture than warm water varieties. Look for tails that feel heavy for their size indicating they are full of meat. The shell should appear translucent with no black spots or discoloration. For this recipe 4-6 ounce tails work perfectly as they cook evenly and provide a generous serving per person.

Make-Ahead Options

While lobster is best enjoyed immediately after cooking you can prepare the herb butter up to three days in advance. Store it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator then bring to room temperature about 30 minutes before using. You can also butterfly the lobster tails earlier in the day and keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This makes entertaining less stressful as you can simply season and broil when guests arrive.

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Perfect Pairings

These luxurious lobster tails deserve thoughtful accompaniments. For a classic steakhouse experience serve alongside a simple grilled filet mignon for surf and turf. Risotto makes an elegant base especially when prepared with lemon and fresh herbs to echo flavors in the butter. For vegetables consider roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or a simple green salad with champagne vinaigrette. Complete the meal with chilled champagne or a crisp Chardonnay to complement the sweet lobster meat.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I know when lobster tails are fully cooked?

Lobster tails are fully cooked when the meat is white and opaque throughout. The most accurate method is using a meat thermometer - properly cooked lobster meat should reach an internal temperature of 145°F in the thickest part. Depending on size, cooking times range from 6-8 minutes for smaller tails to 12-14 minutes for larger ones.

→ Can I prepare the herb butter in advance?

Yes! The herb butter mixture can be prepared up to 3 days in advance. Simply combine softened butter with herbs, garlic, lemon zest and salt, then refrigerate in an airtight container. Let it soften at room temperature before using, or gently warm it (without melting completely) when ready to cook.

→ What's the best way to butterfly a lobster tail?

To butterfly a lobster tail, cut through the top of the shell lengthwise with kitchen shears, stopping at the tail fin. Gently crack the ribs on the underside to open the shell without breaking it apart. Carefully separate the meat from the sides of the shell while keeping it attached at the tail end. Lift the meat and place it on top of the shell for an elegant presentation.

→ What side dishes pair well with lobster tails?

Lobster tails pair beautifully with simple sides that complement without overpowering. Consider steamed asparagus, roasted vegetables, risotto, or a light salad. Starches like mashed potatoes or crusty bread work well for soaking up the delicious garlic-herb butter. For a complete seafood feast, serve alongside a small portion of steak for a classic surf and turf.

→ Can I grill these lobster tails instead of broiling?

Absolutely! Prepare the lobster tails and butter mixture as directed, then grill over medium-high heat (around 400-450°F) with the lid closed. Grill for approximately 5-6 minutes per side until the meat reaches 145°F. The grill adds a wonderful smoky flavor that complements the sweet lobster meat and herb butter beautifully.

→ How do I select the best lobster tails at the store?

Look for lobster tails that smell fresh (like the ocean, not fishy), have a translucent appearance to the meat, and feel heavy for their size. Cold-water tails (from Maine or Canada) typically have better flavor and texture than warm-water varieties. If frozen, ensure they're properly frozen solid without freezer burn or excess ice crystals, which could indicate thawing and refreezing.