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Easy Broiled Lobster Tail

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lobster tails, thawed if frozen
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon garlic, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon parsley, chopped
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Lobster Tails: The star of the dish, lobster meat is naturally sweet and tender. By broiling, we bring out the full richness and texture of the lobster.
  • Butter: Melted butter adds a luxurious richness and helps to ensure that the lobster tail’s meat stays moist while cooking.
  • Garlic and Lemon: A simple blend of garlic and lemon zest enhances the lobster’s natural flavor without overpowering it.
  • Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and color to the lobster tail, giving it a touch of warmth.
  • Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and brightness to the dish.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, crushed red pepper flakes provide a light kick to the overall flavor profile.

Instructions

Prepare the Lobster Tails

  1. Preheat the Broiler: Begin by preheating your broiler on high. If your oven has an adjustable rack, position the rack so that the lobster tails will be about 6 inches from the heat source.
  2. Prepare the Lobster Tails: Using a sharp pair of kitchen scissors or a lobster tail cracker, cut through the top of the lobster shell, lengthwise, to expose the meat. Be careful not to cut all the way through the tail. Gently pull apart the shell slightly to expose the lobster meat. If desired, use a small knife to carefully lift the lobster meat up and over the top of the shell, so it rests on top of the shell.
  3. Remove the Vein: If the lobster has a visible vein, gently remove it with a small spoon or your fingers. This is an important step for ensuring the lobster’s taste is clean and fresh.

Season the Lobster Tails

  1. Make the Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, paprika, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix everything together until fully combined.
  2. Brush the Lobster Meat: Using a pastry brush, generously coat the lobster meat with the seasoned butter mixture. Make sure the lobster meat is evenly coated for the best flavor.

Broil the Lobster Tails

  1. Place Lobster Tails Under the Broiler: Place the prepared lobster tails on a baking sheet, cut-side up. Ensure that they are positioned directly under the broiler element, about 6 inches from the heat source.
  2. Broil: Broil the lobster tails for 10-12 minutes or until the meat is opaque and slightly browned. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the lobster tails, so check for doneness by ensuring the meat is firm and white. You can also check with a fork or knife by gently prying apart the lobster meat to see if it’s cooked through.
  3. Optional: Baste During Cooking: If desired, you can baste the lobster meat with additional butter halfway through the cooking process to keep the meat moist and flavorful.

Serve and Enjoy

  1. Garnish and Serve: Once the lobster tails are cooked, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving plate. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for added freshness and zing.
  2. Enjoy: Serve your Easy Broiled Lobster Tail with your favorite side dishes, like roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. You can also pair it with rice or pasta for a complete meal.

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