Grilled Lobster Tails Garlic Lemon

Succulent lobster tails grilled to perfection and drizzled with a vibrant garlic lemon butter sauce make this dish a standout for any occasion. This quick seafood recipe captures summer's freshest flavors while still feeling indulgent and special.

I first grilled lobster tails for a summer celebration, and the luscious garlic lemon butter stole the show. It turned into a regular dish whenever I want to treat myself and loved ones.

Ingredients You Need

• Four lobster tails: around 5 to 6 ounces each, fresh or fully thawed for even cooking
• Unsalted butter: melted to create the silky, rich base of the sauce
• Fresh garlic: minced to infuse the butter with fragrant, savory notes
• Lemon zest and juice: for bright acidity that balances the richness
• Fresh parsley: chopped for a burst of color and herbaceous freshness
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: to season and enhance flavors naturally
• Neutral oil: such as canola or avocado for brushing that prevents sticking and allows even browning

Detailed Cooking Directions

Prepare the Lobster Tails:

Thaw completely if frozen and pat dry. Using kitchen shears, split the top shell lengthwise, stopping before the tail fin. Gently lift the lobster meat through the slit and let it rest on top while keeping it attached at the base. This technique makes for even grilling and elegant presentation.

Season the Tails:

Brush the exposed meat lightly with neutral oil. Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Let them rest while you prepare the grill to allow the seasoning to penetrate.

Fire Up the Grill:

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for 450 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Clean and oil the grates well to avoid any sticking and ensure those perfect grill marks.

Make the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce:

Melt the butter slowly over low heat in a small saucepan so it remains silky and smooth. Add minced garlic and lemon zest letting it cook for about one minute until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley to infuse brightness and herbaceous notes.

Grill the Lobster Tails:

Place the tails shell-side down on the grill. Close the lid and cook for about four to five minutes. Generously brush on the garlic lemon butter sauce. Flip the tails so the flesh is down and grill for another four to six minutes, basting again with the buttery sauce. The lobster should turn opaque, firm but tender, with slight charring. Internal temperature should reach about 135 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit for perfect doneness.

Serve and Savor:

Transfer the lobster tails to a serving platter. Drizzle with leftover garlic lemon butter sauce, garnish with extra chopped parsley, and serve with lemon wedges to squeeze for extra zing.

One of my favorite touches is the final generous drizzle of garlic lemon butter that makes the lobster shimmer and elevates each bite. I remember the first time I grilled this recipe on a warm evening, and the fresh herbs mingling with the bright lemon made it unforgettable.

Smart Storage Tips

Store leftover grilled lobster tails in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in a warm oven covered with foil to prevent drying out. Prepare the garlic lemon butter sauce ahead and warm slightly to refresh before serving.

Ingredient Variations

Swap parsley for fresh tarragon or basil for a different herbal twist. Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the butter sauce for subtle heat. Use clarified butter for a richer taste and higher smoking point when grilling.

Perfect Pairing Ideas

Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette to echo the lemon notes. Pair with grilled asparagus or roasted baby potatoes for a satisfying meal. A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a dry rosé complements the bright flavors beautifully.

Seasonal Makeovers

In winter, swap lemon zest for orange or grapefruit zest to add seasonal warmth. Add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts over the lobster just before serving for a crunchy contrast. In summer, enhance with fresh-picked herbs like chives or dill for garden-fresh aroma.

Enjoy this elegant dish that brings summer's flavors directly to your table with minimal fuss. It's a perfect way to impress guests or indulge in a special meal anytime.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do you properly prepare lobster tails for grilling?

Using kitchen shears, cut lengthwise through the top shell of thawed lobster tails without detaching the meat. Gently lift the meat out to rest on the shell for even cooking and easier seasoning.

→ What temperature is ideal for grilling lobster tails?

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, about 450–500°F, to ensure a quick sear that locks in moisture without drying out the lobster.

→ How does the garlic lemon butter sauce enhance the lobster?

The warm butter melted with fresh garlic, lemon zest, and juice adds a bright, savory richness that complements the natural sweetness of the lobster meat.

→ How can I tell when the lobster tails are done grilling?

The lobster meat will turn opaque and firm to the touch, with a slight char on the edges. Cooking until an internal temperature of 135–140°F is reached ensures perfect doneness.

→ Are there tips to keep lobster tails juicy on the grill?

Basting the lobster with garlic lemon butter throughout grilling helps maintain moisture and infuses rich flavor, preventing the meat from drying out.