This Grilled Lobster with Lemon Butter recipe offers a refined yet simple way to enjoy one of the ocean’s most luxurious offerings. Whether you’re using lobster tails or whole lobsters, this recipe provides the flexibility to suit your preferences. For the best results, it’s recommended to start with either raw or parcooked lobster, as using fully pre-cooked lobster can lead to a tough, rubbery texture during grilling.
The grilling process enhances the natural sweetness of the lobster meat, while the zesty lemon butter sauce adds a bright, refreshing flavor that complements the rich lobster perfectly. Whether you’re preparing this dish for a special occasion or a casual summer seafood barbecue, it’s sure to impress with its bold flavors and simple preparation.
Ingredients for Grilled Lobster with Lemon Butter
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For this grilled lobster recipe, you’ll need a few simple but essential ingredients that highlight the natural sweetness of the lobster while adding zesty and savory flavors. To ensure perfectly tender lobster, it’s best to use parcooked (briefly steamed or boiled) or raw lobsters. Avoid using fully cooked lobster, as grilling it can make the meat tough and rubbery.
- 2 whole lobsters or 4 lobster tails (parcooked or raw) – Frozen lobster tails can be used for convenience but should be fully thawed before grilling.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter – The base of the lemon butter sauce, adding rich flavor.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced – Adds a savory, aromatic component to the butter sauce.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Brightens the flavor of the lobster and balances the richness of the butter.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest – Enhances the citrus flavor in the sauce.
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper (optional) – For a hint of spice; adjust according to your heat preference.
- 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped – Adds a fresh, herbal note to the sauce.
- Kosher salt and pepper (or your favorite seafood seasoning) – To season the lobster before grilling.
- Olive oil – For brushing on the lobster to prevent sticking and ensure even grilling.
Substitutions:
- For a milder flavor, substitute red pepper flakes for cayenne pepper.
- If you don’t have fresh lobster, frozen lobster tails are a great alternative—just thaw them completely before cooking.
Required Equipment for Grilling Lobster at Home
To grill Maine lobster to perfection, having the right tools is essential. Here’s the equipment you’ll need:
- Grill: A gas or charcoal grill to achieve the smoky, charred flavor that complements the lobster.
- Basting brush: For brushing the lobster with the lemon butter sauce while grilling to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Kitchen shears: To cut through the lobster shells and access the meat.
- Tongs: For flipping the lobster and ensuring even grilling without burning yourself.
- Cutting board: To safely prep the lobster and other ingredients before grilling.
With these tools, you’ll have everything you need for a successful lobster grilling session.
How to Make Grilled Lobster with Lemon Butter
This step-by-step guide from Lobster Anywhere will help you make perfectly grilled lobster, whether you’re using whole lobsters or lobster tails. Starting with either parcooked or raw lobster ensures the meat stays tender and doesn’t become tough or rubbery. Follow these steps to grill your lobster to perfection, using a zesty lemon butter sauce to enhance its natural sweetness.
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
- Preheat your grill to 400°F and set it up for indirect grilling. For a charcoal grill, place the coals on one side to create a zone of indirect heat. For a gas grill, leave one or more burners off to create an indirect heat area.
Step 2: Prepare the Lobster
- For whole live lobsters: Parcook them by steaming or boiling for 4-6 minutes. After parcooking, split the lobster in half lengthwise using a sharp knife. Remove the digestive tract and clean the lobster thoroughly.
- For lobster tails: Use kitchen shears to butterfly the tails. Cut along the top of the shell, stopping just before the tail fin. Gently pull the lobster meat out and rest it on top of the shell for even cooking.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
- In a small saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper (if you like some heat). Once the butter is melted and fragrant, remove the pan from heat. Stir in lemon juice and chopped parsley for added freshness.
Step 4: Season and Grill the Lobster
- Brush the lobster meat with olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, or your favorite seafood seasoning.
- For whole lobsters: Place them flesh-side down on the direct heat for 2 minutes to get a nice char. Then, flip them over and move them to the indirect heat side. Baste the meat with the lemon butter sauce, close the grill lid, and grill for 12-15 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 140°F in the thickest part of the meat.
- For lobster tails: Place the butterflied tails on the indirect heat side of the grill. Grill for 10 minutes, then baste with the lemon butter sauce. Continue grilling for another 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove the lobster from the grill and serve immediately with the remaining lemon butter sauce. Garnish with lemon wedges for a final burst of citrus flavor.
By following these steps, you’ll enjoy perfectly cooked, flavorful lobster that’s tender and full of natural sweetness. The bright and zesty lemon butter sauce adds a delightful touch to the dish, making it a standout for any seafood lover.
Serving and Pairing Ideas for Grilled Lobster with Lemon Butter
Grilled lobster with lemon butter pairs beautifully with a variety of fresh and flavorful side dishes. Consider serving it alongside grilled vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or corn on the cob for a light, summery meal. A simple garden salad or roasted potatoes are also excellent choices, providing a balance of textures and flavors that complement the richness of the lobster.
For drinks, a crisp white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs perfectly with the buttery and citrusy notes of the lemon butter sauce. Alternatively, a refreshing glass of sparkling water with lemon is a great non-alcoholic option that enhances the dish’s flavors.
Variations:
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or dill to the lemon butter sauce for a herby twist.
- For those who enjoy more spice, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Grilled Lobster Tails?
To store leftover grilled lobster, first allow it to cool completely. Wrap the lobster tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, and place it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the lobster for up to 3 months just be sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
When reheating, it’s important to retain the lobster’s tender texture. Avoid using a microwave, as it can overcook the lobster and make it tough. Instead, reheat the lobster in a preheated oven at 350°F, wrapped in foil with a little butter to keep it moist. Warm it for 10-15 minutes, just until heated through.
Nutrition Facts for Grilled Maine Lobster Tails with Butter Sauce
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving for Grilled Maine Lobster with Lemon Butter:
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Potassium: 460mg
- Vitamin A: 1200 IU
- Vitamin C: 18mg
- Calcium: 110mg
- Iron: 1mg
This information provides a general idea of the nutritional content, helping you enjoy this dish mindfully!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
To prepare lobster for grilling, start with parcooked or raw lobster. For whole lobsters, split them in half and clean out the digestive tract. For lobster tails, use the butterfly method by cutting through the shell and pulling the meat out for even cooking.
Yes, frozen lobster tails are a convenient option. Make sure to thaw them completely before grilling to ensure even cooking and a tender texture.
The ideal internal temperature for perfectly cooked lobster is 140°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the lobster meat to avoid overcooking.
To make lemon butter sauce, melt unsalted butter with minced garlic, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes. Once melted, stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley for a zesty, herb-infused finish.
Lobster tails take about 10-15 minutes to grill, depending on their size. Grill them over indirect heat and baste with lemon butter sauce for a flavorful, tender result.
Grilled lobster pairs well with grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a light garden salad. For beverages, consider a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing touch.
Store leftover lobster in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave on a low setting to maintain its flavor and texture. Leftover lobster can also be used in salads, seafood rolls, or pasta dishes.