Cowboy Butter Lobster Tails

Cowboy Butter Lobster Tails are a deliciously rich and flavorful seafood dish, perfect for a special occasion or a luxurious dinner. The lobster is grilled to perfection and coated with a savory cowboy butter sauce made from garlic, lemon, and herbs. With its tangy and aromatic butter sauce, this dish brings a fantastic combination of flavors that enhance the lobster’s natural sweetness.

Ingredients

• 4 lobster tails
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme

Directions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Using kitchen shears, cut down the top of the lobster shell, leaving the meat attached at the tail.
3. Gently loosen the lobster meat from the shell, being careful to keep it attached at the tail end.
4. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, fresh parsley, paprika, salt, black pepper, oregano, and thyme.
5. Brush the lobster tails with the butter mixture, ensuring it gets between the meat and the shell.
6. Grill the lobster tails on the preheated grill for about 10 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and cooked through.
7. Serve the lobster tails with the remaining butter sauce for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the butter mixture to bring some heat to the dish.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different fresh herbs like basil or tarragon for a unique flavor.
• Lemon-Infused Butter: Add more lemon zest or lemon juice for an extra citrusy kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover lobster tails can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat lobster tails gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over low heat with some butter to maintain their moisture.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen lobster tails? Yes, frozen lobster tails work well in this recipe. Be sure to thaw them completely before grilling.
2. What can I serve with cowboy butter lobster tails? These lobster tails pair well with side dishes such as grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
3. Can I cook the lobster tails in the oven instead of grilling? Yes, you can broil the lobster tails in the oven. Place them under the broiler for about 5-6 minutes, watching carefully to prevent overcooking.
4. How do I know when the lobster tails are done? The lobster meat should be opaque and firm to the touch. If the meat is still translucent, it needs more cooking time.
5. Can I make the cowboy butter ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before using.
6. Can I use store-bought garlic butter? While homemade cowboy butter gives the best flavor, store-bought garlic butter can be used as a substitute in a pinch.
7. How do I properly cut lobster tails? Use kitchen shears to carefully cut along the top of the lobster shell, making sure not to cut through the meat. Loosen the meat from the shell but leave it attached at the tail.
8. Can I use different spices in the butter mixture? Yes, you can adjust the spices according to your preference. Some options include adding a bit of lemon zest, parsley, or even smoked paprika.
9. How long should I grill lobster tails? Grill the lobster tails for 8-10 minutes, or until the meat is opaque. It’s important not to overcook them, as lobster can become tough and rubbery.
10. Can I cook the lobster tails on the stovetop? Yes, you can sear the lobster tails in a skillet with butter over medium heat for about 5-6 minutes per side.

Conclusion

Cowboy Butter Lobster Tails are a delicious and easy way to enjoy a luxurious seafood dish at home. The rich, buttery sauce combined with the grilled lobster’s natural sweetness creates an unforgettable flavor. Perfect for any special occasion or a fancy dinner, these lobster tails are sure to impress your guests and elevate your meal. Whether served with a fresh salad or some garlic bread, this recipe offers a mouthwatering and memorable dining experience.

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