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Decadent Buttery Lobster Tail Dinner for Two

buttery lobster tail dinner - featured image

A simple yet luxurious lobster tail recipe featuring a rich buttery garlic sauce, roasted to tender perfection. Perfectly portioned for two, this dish is ideal for special occasions or a romantic dinner at home.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium-sized fresh lobster tails (68 ounces / 170225 grams each)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (60 grams), melted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and set the rack in the middle position.
  2. Using kitchen scissors, carefully cut down the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise, stopping just before the tail fin. Gently pry open the shell and loosen the lobster meat from inside, lifting it so it rests on top of the shell but remains attached at the base.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, smoked paprika, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. Generously brush each lobster tail meat with the buttery garlic sauce using a basting brush.
  5. Place the prepared lobster tails on a baking tray, meat side up, and roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, depending on size, until the meat is opaque and firm but still juicy.
  6. About halfway through cooking (around 7 minutes), open the oven and brush more butter sauce over the lobster meat to keep it moist and flavorful.
  7. Once cooked, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the lobster tails for garnish and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

Do not overcook the lobster tails to avoid rubbery meat; the lobster is done when the meat is opaque and firm but still juicy. For a little char, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end but watch carefully. Fresh garlic is essential for the best flavor. You can substitute lemon zest with orange zest for a sweeter twist or use vegan butter or olive oil for a dairy-free version.

Nutrition

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