Grilled lobster is a delicious and decadent seafood dish that is perfect for any special occasion or backyard barbecue. Whether you're a seasoned griller or a novice cook, grilled lobster is an easy and impressive dish that is sure to impress your guests.
Preparing your lobster for the grill is simple and straightforward. You'll need fresh or frozen lobster tails, garlic, herbs, lemon, and a grill pan. Once you've thawed your lobster tails, you can butterfly them and season them with your favourite herbs and spices. Grilling the lobster is quick and easy, and you can enjoy juicy, tender, and flavorful lobster tails with irresistible garlic butter seasoning.
If you're new to grilling lobster, you may have some questions about the process. How long should you grill the lobster? What temperature should the grill be? What's the best way to season the lobster? In this article, we'll answer these and other frequently asked questions about grilling lobster, so you can create the perfect grilled lobster dish every time.
Key Takeaways
- Grilled lobster is an easy and impressive dish that is perfect for any special occasion or backyard barbecue.
- Preparing your lobster for the grill is simple and straightforward, and you can enjoy juicy, tender, and flavorful lobster tails with irresistible garlic butter seasoning.
- By following our tips and answering frequently asked questions about grilling lobster, you can create the perfect grilled lobster dish every time.
Preparing Your Lobster
When it comes to grilling lobster, preparation is key. Here are the steps to follow to make sure your lobster is delicious and juicy.
Choosing the Best Lobster
To make the best grilled lobster, you need to start with the best quality lobster. When choosing your lobster, look for fresh, firm lobster tails that are still in their shells. If you can, choose lobster tails that are still alive, as this will ensure the freshest possible flavour.
Butterflying Lobster Tails
To butterfly your lobster tails, you will need a good pair of kitchen shears. Start by cutting down the center of the shell lengthwise, starting from the end opposite the tail fins. Be careful not to cut the tail. Then, using your fingers, gently pry the shell apart and loosen the meat from the shell.
Making Herb Butter
For a delicious garlic herb butter to accompany your grilled lobster, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped chives, lemon zest, and a pinch of kosher salt. Mix well and set aside until ready to use.
Now that you have prepared your lobster, it's time to grill it to perfection.
Grilling to Perfection
Grilling lobster tails is a great way to enjoy this delicious seafood. Here are some tips to help you grill lobster tails to perfection.
Grilling Techniques
When grilling lobster tails, it's important to use high heat to get a good sear on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. You can use a gas or charcoal grill, but make sure the grill is hot before you start cooking.
If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning. Thread the lobster tails onto the skewers to keep them from curling up while cooking.
Checking for Doneness
To check if the lobster tails are done, insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the meat. The internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C) for cooked lobster.
Another way to check doneness is to look at the colour of the meat. It should be opaque and white, with no translucent parts.
Serving Suggestions
When serving grilled lobster tails, you can squeeze some lemon juice over them and sprinkle with black pepper for added flavour. You can also serve them with lemon wedges and a side of lemon garlic butter for dipping.
Leftover grilled lobster tails can be refrigerated and reheated later. To reheat, wrap the lobster tails in foil and place them on a baking sheet in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you prepare a lobster for grilling?
Before grilling a lobster, you need to prepare it properly. Start by cleaning the lobster, removing any debris or dirt. Then, cut the lobster in half lengthwise, making sure to remove the digestive tract. Rinse the lobster under cold water and pat it dry.
What's the best way to grill lobster tails on a gas barbecue?
To grill lobster tails on a gas barbecue, start by preheating the grill to medium-high heat. Brush the lobster tails with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the lobster tails on the grill, shell-side down, and cook for 5-7 minutes. Flip the lobster tails and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
How long should you grill a lobster for?
The cooking time for grilled lobster depends on the size of the lobster and the cooking method. For whole lobsters, grill for about 10-12 minutes per pound. For lobster tails, grill for 5-7 minutes on the shell side and 2-3 minutes on the meat side.
Can you recommend any good grilled lobster recipes?
There are many great grilled lobster recipes to choose from. Some popular options include grilled lobster with garlic butter, grilled lobster with herb butter, and grilled lobster with lemon and garlic.
What temperature should you aim for when grilling lobster tails?
When grilling lobster tails, aim for an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature ensures that the lobster is cooked through but still tender and juicy.
Is it necessary to split lobster tails before grilling them?
It is not necessary to split lobster tails before grilling them, but it can help them cook more evenly. Splitting the tails also makes it easier to season the meat and remove the digestive tract.