How to Grill Lobster Tails
Lobster tails are a delicious and luxurious seafood dish that can be enjoyed at home with the right preparation. Grilling lobster tails is one of the best ways to cook them, as it allows you to achieve a perfectly cooked lobster tail with a slightly smoky flavor.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to grill lobster tails:
Ingredients:
- 1-2 lobster tails per person
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Equipment:
- Grill
- Grill brush
- Tongs
- Heatproof gloves
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails
- Thaw the lobster tails (if frozen): If your lobster tails are frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or in a cold water bath for 30-60 minutes.
- Remove the lobster meat from the shell: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the lobster tail down the center. Gently remove the lobster meat from the shell, leaving the tail intact.
- Devein the lobster meat: Using your fingers or the tip of a knife, remove the dark vein that runs through the center of the lobster meat.
Step 2: Season the Lobster Tails
- Drizzle the lobster meat with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If desired, you can also brush the lobster shells with olive oil and season them with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F).
- Clean the grill grates with a grill brush to remove any residue.
Step 4: Grill the Lobster Tails
- Once the grill is preheated, place the lobster tails on the grill grates.
- Grill the lobster tails for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and the meat is opaque.
- If using skewers, pierce the lobster tails through the center and grill them over indirect heat for 10-12 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Step 5: Serve
- Once the lobster tails are cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the lobster tails with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce, such as drawn butter or garlic butter.
Tips for Grilling Lobster Tails
- Use fresh lobster tails whenever possible. Frozen lobster tails can work, but they may not have as much flavor.
- Don’t overcook the lobster tails. The meat should be opaque and slightly firm, but not rubbery.
- If you are grilling the lobster tails on skewers, soak the skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
- If you are using a gas grill, close the lid during grilling to help the lobster tails cook more evenly.
- Serve the lobster tails immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
FAQ
Q: How do I know when the lobster tails are cooked?
A: The lobster tails are cooked when the meat is opaque and slightly firm. You can also insert a toothpick into the thickest part of the tail. If the toothpick goes in easily, the lobster is cooked.
Q: Can I grill lobster tails with the shell on?
A: Yes, you can grill lobster tails with the shell on. However, you will need to cook them for a longer period of time. Grill the lobster tails for 10-12 minutes per side, or until the shells are bright red and the meat is cooked through.
Q: What is the best dipping sauce for lobster tails?
A: Drawn butter or garlic butter are classic dipping sauces for lobster tails. You can also try other sauces, such as lemon butter, hollandaise sauce, or melted cheese sauce.
Q: Can I grill lobster tails on a charcoal grill?
A: Yes, you can grill lobster tails on a charcoal grill. However, you will need to be careful not to overcook them. Grill the lobster tails over indirect heat for 10-12 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Q: Can I reheat grilled lobster tails?
A: Yes, you can reheat grilled lobster tails in the oven or microwave. To reheat in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F and place the lobster tails in a baking dish. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. To reheat in the microwave, place the lobster tails on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
