Tips for How to Cook Lobster Tails on Grill
Grilling lobster tails is a great way to bring out the natural sweetness of the meat while adding a smoky flavor. As someone who loves to grill, I have learned a few tips and tricks that I would like to share for how to cook lobster tails on grill.
The first step in grilling lobster tails is to prepare them properly. Using a pair of kitchen shears, cut the shell down the center, stopping at the tail.
Then, with a knife, split the meat along the same path as the shell cut line, being careful not to slice all the way through the lobster. This will allow the meat to cook evenly on the grill.
Once the lobster tails are prepped, it’s time to fire up the grill. Make sure to preheat the grill to medium-high heat and brush the lobster tails with a neutral oil, such as canola oil, before placing them on the grates.
Grill the tails until the shells are bright red and the meat is opaque and firm to the touch. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Understanding Lobster Tails
Lobster tails are a delicious and luxurious seafood delicacy that can be cooked in a variety of ways, including grilling. As someone who loves to cook, I have learned a few things about lobster tails that I would like to share with you.
When grilling lobster tails, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
First, the meat is located in the tail, and it is protected by a hard shell. The shell is made up of a hard exoskeleton that covers the tail and is tough to cut through.
Second, lobster meat is delicate and can easily overcook, so it’s essential to be careful when cooking it on the grill.
If you’re buying frozen lobster tails, make sure to thaw them out 100% before cooking. The best way to thaw them out is to place them in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can also thaw them by placing them in a bowl of cold water for 30 minutes (not ideal but ok if you ar stuck for time).
Another thing to keep in mind is to brush the lobster tails with oil to prevent them from sticking to the grill. You can also add some seasoning to the tails to enhance their flavor.
It’s important to keep an eye on the lobster tails while grilling them and flip them over a couple of times to ensure they cook evenly without burning.
Preparation Before Grilling
Thawing Lobster Tails
Before grilling lobster tails, it is important to thaw them properly. If my son hasn’t caught a feed and we have frozen ones, I like to take them out of the freezer and put them in the fridge overnight, but if you are in a hurry, you can thaw them in cold water.
To do this, place the lobster tails in a large bowl of cold water and let them sit for 30-40 minutes. Make sure to change the water every 10 minutes to keep it cold.
Marinating Lobster Tails
Marinating lobster tails is a great way to infuse them with flavor and keep them juicy on the grill. I like to use a simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
To make the marinade, mix together 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper in a small bowl.
To marinate the lobster tails, place them in a large resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours. Make sure to turn the bag occasionally to ensure that the lobster tails are evenly coated in the marinade.
Once the lobster tails have been marinated, they are ready to be grilled. Keep reading to learn how to cook lobster tails on grill like a pro!
Grilling Techniques
Grilling lobster tails is a delicious way to enjoy seafood during the summer months. Here are some grilling techniques that I have found to be effective when cooking lobster tails on the grill.
Using Skewers
Using skewers is a great way to keep the lobster tails from curling up on the grill. To use skewers, first, soak them in water for 30-60 minutes to prevent them from catching fire on the grill.
Then, run the skewer lengthwise through the center of the flesh of the lobster tail. This will help keep the lobster tail straight and prevent it from curling up.
Using a Grill Pan
A grill pan is another option for you to cook lobster tails on grill. To use a grill pan, preheat the grill to medium-high heat and place the grill pan on the grates. Brush the lobster tails with oil and season with salt and pepper.
Next, place the lobster tails on the grill pan with the flesh side down. Cook for around 5-7 minutes, depending on the size of the lobster tail, until the meat is charred and cooked through.
When grilling lobster tails, it is important to keep the grill at a consistent temperature. Medium heat, around 350 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, is a good starting point. However, if you prefer a more charred lobster tail, you can increase the heat to high and cook for a shorter amount of time.
Butterflying Lobster Tails
Butterflying lobster tails for the grill is a great way to ensure they cook evenly and come out looking impressive. Here’s how I butterfly lobster tails ready for cooking for the grill:
- First, I grab a pair of sturdy kitchen shears. I like to use kitchen shears with a serrated edge for extra grip.
- Next, I hold the lobster tail in one hand with the top of the hard shell facing up. Then, I use the kitchen shears to cut through the top of the shell and through the meat, stopping just before the bottom shell.
- After cutting through the shell, I use my hands to gently pry open the shell and expose the meat. Then, I pull the lobster meat above the shell and slightly push together the empty shell underneath.
- Finally, I place the butterflied lobster tail onto a lined baking sheet, flesh side up, and get ready to grill!
Butterflying lobster tails can be a bit tricky at first, but with a little practice, it becomes second nature. Plus, it’s a great way to impress your guests and elevate your seafood feast.
Cooking Duration and Temperature
When it comes to cooking lobster tails on the grill, it’s important to get the timing and temperature just right. Here’s what I recommend:
Cook Time
The cook time for lobster tails on the grill can vary depending on the size of the tails and the heat of your grill. As a general rule of thumb, I like to grill my lobster tails for 8-10 minutes per inch of thickness. So, if you have a 4-ounce lobster tail that’s 1 inch thick, you’ll want to grill it for about 8-10 minutes.
Internal Temperature
To ensure that your lobster tails are fully cooked, you’ll want to use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature. The USDA recommends cooking lobster tails to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the tail to get an accurate reading.
Grill Time
Grilling lobster tails can be a bit tricky because you want to get that nice char on the outside without overcooking the meat. I recommend grilling the tails flesh-side down for the first 5-6 minutes, then flipping them over and grilling for another 2-3 minutes.
This will give you a nice sear on the flesh side and help to keep the meat tender and juicy.
Instant-Read Thermometer
An instant-read thermometer, just like this one, is a must-have tool for grilling lobster tails. It allows you to check the internal temperature of the meat quickly and accurately, so you can be sure that your lobster tails are fully cooked. Just be sure to insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the tail to get an accurate reading.
Remember, cooking times and temperatures can vary depending on your grill and the size of your lobster tails, so use these guidelines as a starting point and adjust as needed. With a little practice, you’ll be grilling perfect lobster tails every time!
Serving Suggestions
Grilled Lobster Tails With Garlic Butter
Garlic butter is a classic and delicious choice, and is a personal favorite at home when serving grilled lobster tails. Making garlic butter is easy and only requires a few ingredients. Here’s how I make mine:
- Soften 1/2 cup of butter on the bench or in the microwave oven.
- Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and mix it through the butter until fragrant.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of chopped chives and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Once the garlic butter is ready, cut the lobster tails in half and place a good layer of the garlic butter onto the lobster flesh. Place the lobster tails onto the grill, shell side down for around 5 minutes until the butter melts into the lobster flesh (close the lid if you have one).
Place somemore butter onto the flesh and turn the lobster tails over for another couple of minutes. Check to see if cooked, if not, turn them over shell die down and gice it a couple more minutes (you can even bung a bit more garlic butter on top if you like).
Check them again and rmove from heat and serve with your favorite side salad or veges.
Serving Sides
Here are some ideas for serving sides with grilled lobster tails, I like to keep things simple and let the lobster shine. Here are a few of my favorite options:
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing is a great way to balance out the richness of the lobster.
- Roasted asparagus or grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers are also a great option.
- For a classic surf and turf meal, consider serving grilled shrimp alongside your lobster tails.
- If you’re in the mood for something a bit heartier, creamy risotto or garlic mashed potatoes are a great choice.
No matter what sides you choose, be sure to have plenty of lemon wedges and fresh herbs like parsley or chives on hand to add brightness and freshness to your meal.
Seasoning Tips
When it comes to seasoning lobster tails for the grill, I like to keep it simple. A little bit of seasoning goes a long way, and you don’t want to overpower the delicate flavor of the lobster meat. Here are a few tips for seasoning your lobster tails:
- Sea salt: A sprinkle of sea salt is all you need to bring out the natural sweetness of the lobster meat. Be sure to use a high-quality sea salt for the best flavor.
- Paprika: Paprika adds a nice smoky flavor to the lobster meat. I like to use a sweet paprika, but you could also use a hot or smoked paprika if you prefer.
- Crushed red pepper: If you like a little bit of heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper is a great addition to your seasoning mix.
- Butter: Butter is not technically a seasoning, but it’s a must-have for grilling lobster tails. I like to mix melted butter with a little bit of garlic and lemon juice for a simple and delicious flavor.
Less is more when seasoning lobster meat so don’t be tempted with too many spices or seasonings. Stick to a few simple ingredients and let the natural flavor of the lobster shine through.
Nutrition Facts
Lobster tails are a delicious and indulgent treat that can be enjoyed on special occasions or as a decadent meal. However, it’s important to keep in mind the nutritional value of this seafood delicacy.
One 4-ounce serving of cooked lobster tail contains approximately:
- 105 calories
- 22 grams of protein
- 1 gram of fat
- 0 grams of carbohydrates
Lobster tails are also a great source of essential nutrients such as:
- Selenium
- Vitamin B12
- Zinc
- Phosphorus
While lobster tails are a great source of protein, they are also low in fat and carbohydrates, making them a healthy option for those watching their weight or looking for a low-carb meal.
It’s important to note that lobster tails are often served with butter or other high-fat sauces, which can significantly increase the calorie and fat content of the dish (although, while a bit naughty is extremely tasty, just saying).
To keep your meal healthy, consider grilling or broiling the lobster tails and serving them with a side of vegetables or a salad. That said, lobster tails can be a healthy and delicious addition to your diet when enjoyed in moderation and prepared in a healthy manner.
Final Thoughts
Cooking lobster tails on the grill is an easy and delicious way to enjoy this seafood delicacy at home. As a recipe developer and food stylist, I have tried many different lobster tail recipes, and grilling them is definitely one of my favorites.
The great thing about grilling lobster tails is that it only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, and the result is always impressive. Whether you’re having a fancy dinner party or just want to treat yourself to a special meal, grilled lobster tails are sure to impress.
One thing to keep in mind when cooking lobster tails on the grill is to make sure you split the tails before grilling them. This will help the meat cook evenly and prevent it from curling up on the grill. You can also marinate the lobster tails in a flavorful mixture of lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper for even more flavor.
Another great thing about grilling lobster tails is that you can easily adjust the cooking time depending on the size of the tails. For smaller tails, you can grill them for just a few minutes on each side, while larger tails may take a bit longer. Just be sure to keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
Overall, grilling lobster tails is a great way to enjoy this seafood delicacy at home. With a few simple steps and some basic ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in no time. So next time you’re looking for a special meal to impress your guests or just want to treat yourself, give grilled lobster tails a try!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you know when grilled lobster tail is done?
You can tell when a lobster tail is done when the meat turns opaque and firm to the touch. The internal temperature should reach 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Overcooking will result in tough and rubbery meat.
How long does it take to cook a 4 oz lobster tail on the grill?
It usually takes around 8-10 minutes to cook a 4 oz lobster tail on the grill. However, the cooking time may vary depending on the temperature of the grill and the thickness of the tail.
At what temperature do you grill lobster tails?
It is recommended to grill lobster tails at medium-high heat, around 375-400 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure that the meat cooks evenly and does not dry out.
How to cut lobster tail for grilling?
To cut a lobster tail for grilling, use kitchen shears to cut the shell down the center, stopping at the tail. Then, use a knife to cut through the meat along the same path as the shell cut line, being careful not to slice all the way through the lobster. Finally, gently pull the meat out of the shell and place it on top of the shell.
Grilled lobster tail with garlic butter?
To make grilled lobster tail with garlic butter, melt butter in a saucepan and add minced garlic. Cook for a few minutes until fragrant. Brush the garlic butter over the lobster tails during the last few minutes of grilling.
How to grill lobster tails on gas grill?
To grill lobster tails on a gas grill, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Cut the lobster tail as described above and brush with olive oil. Place the lobster tails on the grill, meat side down, and cook for 2-3 minutes. Flip the lobster tails over and continue to grill for an additional 5-8 minutes, brushing with garlic butter during the last few minutes of cooking.
