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Lobster Tail Recipe: Easy Garlic Butter Lemon for Perfect Romantic Dinner

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This easy lobster tail recipe features tender lobster broiled with a rich garlic butter and bright lemon zest, perfect for romantic dinners or special occasions. It comes together quickly and delivers restaurant-quality flavor with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large lobster tails (68 oz each, thawed if frozen)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 23 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • Zest and juice of 1 medium lemon
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (preferably flaky sea salt or kosher salt)
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven’s broiler to high and position the rack about 6 inches from the top.
  2. Rinse lobster tails under cold water and pat dry. Using sharp kitchen scissors, cut down the center of the shell lengthwise, stopping before the tail fins. Gently pull the meat above the shell, keeping it attached at the base, and lay the meat on top (butterflied).
  3. In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, chopped parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Beat until creamy and spreadable.
  4. Place lobster tails on a lined baking sheet. Drizzle each tail with olive oil, then brush with half the garlic butter (reserve the rest for serving).
  5. Broil for 8-10 minutes, depending on size, until the meat is opaque, slightly firm, and just beginning to brown on top. A 6 oz tail usually takes about 9 minutes; larger tails may need 1-2 minutes more.
  6. Remove lobster tails from oven and let rest for 2 minutes. Brush with remaining garlic butter, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top, and sprinkle with extra parsley.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges and additional parsley if desired.

Notes

For dairy-free, substitute butter with vegan margarine. Watch the lobster closely under the broiler to avoid overcooking. If you don’t have a broiler, bake at 425°F for 12-15 minutes or grill over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes. Serve with garlic mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a green salad. Leftovers keep for up to 2 days in the fridge; reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water.

Nutrition

Keywords: lobster tail, garlic butter, lemon, broiled lobster, romantic dinner, seafood, easy lobster recipe, gluten-free, special occasion