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Perfect Lobster Tail Recipe with Garlic Butter and Asparagus

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A quick and easy recipe for juicy lobster tails baked with garlic butter and tender asparagus, perfect for special occasions or an indulgent weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 lobster tails (about 6 ounces/170 grams each), fresh or thawed frozen
  • 4 tablespoons (56 grams) unsalted butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 pound (450 grams) asparagus, trimmed
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep the Lobster Tails (10 minutes): Using kitchen scissors, carefully cut down the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise, stopping just before the tail fin. Gently pry the shell open and loosen the meat without detaching it entirely. Pull the meat upward, resting it atop the shell for an attractive presentation.
  2. Make Garlic Butter (5 minutes): In a small saucepan over low heat, melt 4 tablespoons (56 grams) of unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and stir gently for about 2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley if using.
  3. Season and Prepare Asparagus (5 minutes): Trim the woody ends off the asparagus. Toss them in a mixing bowl with 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Spread them out on a baking sheet, leaving space for the lobster tails.
  4. Assemble Lobster on Baking Sheet (2 minutes): Place the lobster tails on the baking sheet alongside the asparagus. Brush each lobster tail generously with the garlic butter, reserving some for basting halfway through cooking.
  5. Bake Lobster and Asparagus (12-15 minutes): Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the lobster and asparagus together for 12-15 minutes until lobster meat is opaque and firm, and asparagus is tender but vibrant. Halfway through, baste lobster tails with reserved garlic butter.
  6. Final Touches and Serve (2 minutes): Remove from oven and let lobster rest for 1-2 minutes. Spoon any remaining garlic butter over lobster tails and asparagus. Serve immediately with lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

Avoid overcooking lobster to prevent rubbery texture. Use low heat when melting garlic butter to avoid burning garlic. Rest lobster for 1-2 minutes after baking to keep it juicy. If asparagus stalks are thick, trim more or parboil briefly before roasting. For dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: lobster tail, garlic butter, asparagus, easy lobster recipe, baked lobster, seafood dinner, special occasion meal