Spiny Lobster Tails
Juicy spiny lobster tails are grilled to perfection with a buttery lemon glaze, offering a delightful seafood experience ideal for special occasions or summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw frozen lobster tails.
- Cut lobster tails in half lengthwise.
- Remove swimmercrettes and sharp edges from the lobster meat.
- Cut 6 pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil, 12 x 12 inches each.
- Place each lobster tail on a piece of foil.
- Combine melted butter, lemon juice, and salt to make the sauce.
- Baste the lobster meat with the sauce.
- Fold the foil up over the lobster and seal all edges with tight double folds to make packages.
- Place the packages on a grill, shell side down, about 5 inches from hot coals.
- Cook for 20 minutes.
- Remove lobster tails from the foil packages.
- Place the lobster tails flesh side down on the grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until lightly browned.
- Serve with melted butter.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use fresh lobster tails if possible. If using frozen, ensure they are completely thawed before cooking. You can substitute the butter with olive oil for a lighter option. Adding minced garlic to the sauce can enhance the flavor even further. For a twist, try integrating some herbs like parsley or cilantro. This dish pairs beautifully with Elegant Crab Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lobster tails with additional melted butter on the side for dipping. They pair well with sides like grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider serving with Chow Mein Noodles. A crisp white wine or a light beer can complement the flavors beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cooked lobster tails in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the tails in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the lobster rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spiny Lobster Tails contains roughly 202 calories, with 21g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1340mg per serving (58% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cook lobster tails in the oven instead of on the grill?
Yes, you can bake the lobster tails instead of grilling them. Preheat your oven to 350°F, place the buttered and seasoned tails on a baking sheet, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the meat is opaque and cooked through.
How do I know when the lobster tails are done cooking?
Lobster tails are done when the meat is opaque and firm to the touch. The internal temperature should reach 140°F. Additionally, the shell will turn a bright red color. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough.
Can I use this recipe for other types of seafood?
Definitely! This preparation works well with shrimp or crab legs. Adjust the cooking time according to the size of the seafood. For shrimp, cook for about 10-12 minutes on the grill, and for crab legs, steam them first and then baste with the sauce before grilling.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).