Description
Indulge in the ultimate seafood delicacy with this recipe for broiled lobster tails smothered in a luscious, creamy garlic butter sauce. This dish is surprisingly simple to prepare, yet delivers a restaurant-quality experience right in your own home. Perfect for special occasions or when you simply want to treat yourself to something extraordinary.
Ingredients:
- Seafood:
- 4 lobster tails, thawed if previously frozen
- Sauce:
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Toppings:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup (60 grams) shredded Parmesan or Gruyère cheese (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails:
With kitchen shears, carefully cut along the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise. Gently lift the lobster meat over the shell, leaving it attached at the base for presentation. This creates a pocket for the flavorful garlic butter sauce.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce:
Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce:
Allow the mixture to simmer gently, whisking until slightly thickened, about 2–3 minutes. The sauce should be rich and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Lobster Tails:
Position lobster tails in a baking dish. Generously spoon the prepared garlic butter sauce over the lobster meat, ensuring each tail is well-coated. If using, evenly sprinkle shredded Parmesan or Gruyère over each portion.
Step 5: Broil the Lobster:
Place the baking dish under the broiler on high heat for 7–10 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and the surface is golden and lightly browned. Monitor closely to prevent overcooking.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve:
Remove from oven. Finish with chopped parsley and an extra grinding of black pepper. Serve immediately alongside warm artisan bread or roasted vegetables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a quick yet impressive meal.
- Restaurant-Quality Flavor: The creamy garlic butter sauce elevates the lobster to a gourmet level.
- Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of sides, from crusty bread to roasted vegetables.
- Impressive Presentation: The lobster tails look stunning when served, making it ideal for special occasions.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread for soaking up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
- Roasted asparagus or green beans make excellent vegetable accompaniments.
- A crisp green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the lobster.
- Consider serving with a side of lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Tips:
- For easy shell removal, use sharp kitchen shears and avoid cutting into the meat.
- Monitor lobsters closely under the broiler to prevent overcooking and ensure tenderness. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C).
- If you don’t have a broiler, you can bake the lobster at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic and lemon juice to suit your taste.
- For a richer flavor, add a splash of white wine to the garlic butter sauce.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition Information: (Estimated, per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 500mg
DRINK Rating:
This pairs beautifully with a crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The acidity of the wine cuts through the richness of the butter sauce, creating a balanced and delightful culinary experience. Alternatively, a sparkling wine like Prosecco can also be a lovely complement.
Conclusion:
This broiled lobster with creamy garlic butter recipe is a surefire way to impress your family and friends. With its simple steps and exquisite flavor, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Whether it’s a romantic dinner for two or a festive gathering, this lobster recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use frozen lobster tails for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen lobster tails. Just make sure they are completely thawed before you begin cooking. Thawing them in the refrigerator overnight is the best method.
Q2: Can I make the garlic butter sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce a few hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and gently reheat it before spooning it over the lobster tails.
Q3: How do I know when the lobster is cooked through?
A: The lobster meat should be opaque and firm to the touch. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C). Be careful not to overcook it, as it can become tough.
Q4: Can I add other herbs to the garlic butter sauce?
A: Absolutely! Fresh thyme, rosemary, or oregano would be delicious additions to the sauce.
Q5: What if I don’t have a broiler?
A: If you don’t have a broiler, you can bake the lobster at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
