Grilled Lobster Tails with Zesty Citrus Butter
Indulge in the luxurious taste of Grilled Lobster Tails with Zesty Citrus Butter, a dish that elevates any dining experience. The rich, tender lobster meat perfectly complements the vibrant flavors of fresh lemon and orange juices, creating a delightful citrus-infused butter that resonates with sunshine. Ideal for special occasions or a fancy dinner at home, this recipe not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers an impressive presentation. Serve these succulent lobster tails as a stunning centerpiece for your next gathering, ensuring that each bite is met with admiration and satisfaction. Enjoy the ocean's bounty with a burst of refreshing flavors and a touch of elegance.
4
Servings
200
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Lobster Tails
4 (4 1/2 ounce each, cut down the center but not all the way through.)
Unsalted Butter
1/4 cup (melted)
Fresh Lemon Juice
2 teaspoons (freshly squeezed)
Fresh Orange Juice
2 teaspoons (freshly squeezed)
Salt
1 dash (to taste)
Pepper
1 dash (to taste)
Paprika
1 dash (for seasoning)
Instructions
1
Begin by preheating your grill or broiler on low heat.
2
Using kitchen scissors, carefully cut each lobster tail down the center through the meat, stopping just before you reach the shell to keep it intact.
3
Gently pull the lobster meat away from the shell slightly, then fold it over to create a butterfly effect.
4
In a small bowl, combine melted unsalted butter, fresh lemon juice, fresh orange juice, salt, pepper, and paprika to create the citrus butter. Mix well.
5
Brush a generous amount of the citrus butter over the exposed lobster meat, ensuring an even coating.
6
If grilling, place a sheet of foil on the grill and position the lobster tails shell side down. For broiling, use a broiling pan and keep the tails about 6 inches from the heat source.
7
Cover the grill or broiler and cook the lobster tails for approximately 14-16 minutes or until the meat is opaque, firm, and white, brushing with additional citrus butter every few minutes.
8
Once cooked, use a fork to loosen the lobster meat slightly from the shell.
9
Brush with the remaining citrus butter before serving to enhance flavor.
10
Garnish with parsley or additional lemon slices for a touch of color and serve warm.
Nutrition Information
12.5g
Fat
1.25g
Carbs
20g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prepare the lobster tails for grilling?
Use kitchen scissors to cut each lobster tail down the center through the meat, stopping just before the shell, then gently pull the meat away and fold it over to butterfly it.
What is in the zesty citrus butter?
The citrus butter is a mixture of melted unsalted butter, fresh lemon juice, fresh orange juice, salt, pepper, and paprika.
How long does it take to grill lobster tails?
Lobster tails should be cooked for approximately 14-16 minutes until the meat is opaque, firm, and white.
Can I cook these lobster tails in a broiler?
Yes, you can use a broiling pan and keep the tails about 6 inches from the heat source for the same amount of time.
What grill heat setting should I use?
You should preheat your grill or broiler on a low heat setting.
Should I grill the lobster meat side down?
No, you should place a sheet of foil on the grill and position the lobster tails shell side down.
How do I know when the lobster is fully cooked?
The lobster is done when the meat is opaque, white, and firm to the touch.
How often should I baste the lobster meat?
You should brush the meat with the citrus butter initially and then again every few minutes during the cooking process.
What size lobster tails are recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 lobster tails, each weighing approximately 4.5 ounces.
Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, with only 1.25g of carbohydrates and 20g of protein, this is a very low-carb, keto-friendly dish.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains 200 calories.
How much fat is in this lobster dish?
There are 12.5 grams of fat per serving.
What garnish is recommended for serving?
You can garnish the finished dish with fresh parsley or additional lemon slices for color.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
You can, but you may want to reduce the additional dash of salt in the recipe to avoid it being too salty.
Do I need to take the meat completely out of the shell?
No, the meat remains attached to the bottom shell; you simply butterfly it on top for better exposure to heat and flavor.
What is the purpose of using orange juice in the butter?
The orange juice provides a refreshing, vibrant sweetness that complements the lemon and the rich lobster meat.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe suitable for beginners and home cooks.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
Why use foil when grilling the lobster?
Foil helps protect the shell and prevents the butter from dripping directly into the flames, which could cause flare-ups.
Can I prepare the citrus butter ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the butter and juices ahead of time, but you may need to gently reheat it if it solidifies.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides 20 grams of protein.
Does this recipe contain any sugar?
No, this recipe has 0g of sugar.
What tools do I need for this recipe?
You will need kitchen scissors, a small bowl for the butter, a brush for basting, and a grill or broiler.
Why do I need to loosen the meat after cooking?
Loosening the meat with a fork makes it easier for your guests to eat directly from the shell.
Is there any fiber in this dish?
No, this recipe contains 0g of fiber.
What type of paprika should I use?
Standard sweet paprika is typically used for color and mild seasoning, but smoked paprika could add a deeper flavor profile.
Can I use frozen lobster tails?
Yes, but ensure they are completely thawed before you begin the butterflying and grilling process.
What occasions is this dish best for?
It is perfect for special occasions, elegant dinners, or summer gatherings.
How much lemon juice is required?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Can I use lime juice instead of lemon juice?
While it will change the flavor profile slightly, lime juice is a viable citrus substitute that pairs well with seafood.