Grilling lobster tails on the barbecue is a delicious way to enjoy fresh seafood during the warmer months. With a few simple steps, you can have tender, juicy lobster cooked to perfection on your outdoor grill.
Necessary Equipment
- Gas or charcoal grill
- tongs
- aluminum foil
- knife
- cutting board
- lemon wedges (optional)
Ingredients
- Lobster tails, thawed if frozen
- Butter, melted
- Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, rosemary (optional)
- Lemon juice (optional)
- Salt and pepper
Prep the Lobster Tails
Before grilling, the lobster tails need some prep work.
- Use kitchen shears to cut through the top of the shell, stopping before the fin joint.
- Cut along the underside of the lobster tail to butterfly it open. Do not cut all the way through.
- Spread the lobster meat open, but leave it attached to the shell.
- Use a knife to slice through the underside membrane to further spread the meat.
This helps the lobster cook faster and more evenly on the grill.
Season the Lobster Meat
- Brush the exposed lobster meat lightly with melted butter.
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs, salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
- Rub the seasonings into the meat.
Grill the Lobster Tails
- Prepare the grill for direct high heat. Use tongs to oil the grates if needed.
- Place lobster tails meat-side-down on grill.
- Grill for 2-3 minutes until the shells begin to turn red.
- Flip the tails over and grill for another 2-3 minutes. The meat should be opaque.
- Check for doneness by inserting a paring knife into the thickest part of the meat. It should come out warm.
- Remove from grill and serve immediately.
Serve the Lobster Tails
- Insert a fork into the lobster tail meat and push to separate it from the shell.
- Serve grilled lobster tails with melted butter for dipping, lemon wedges, and fresh herbs.
Helpful Tips
- Choose lobster tails that are similar in size for even cooking.
- Let the grill heat up fully before adding lobster tails.
- Grill lobster with the shell on to keep the meat moist and juicy.
- Watch closely to prevent overcooking. Lobster can go from perfect to rubbery quickly.
- Check for doneness early and frequently.
- Add herbs, spices, or other flavorings to the melted butter for more flavor.
- Serve grilled lobster tails with grilled vegetables, potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Grilling lobster tails on the barbecue is easy and rewarding. With a hot grill and properly prepped tails, you can make restaurant-quality seafood at home. Keep an eye on the tails as they cook since lobster can overcook quickly. In around 5 minutes, you’ll have tender, smoky lobster ready to enjoy all summer long.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I grill lobster tails?
Grill lobster tails for 2-3 minutes per side, about 5 minutes total. Check frequently for doneness. The meat should be opaque throughout when done.
Can I grill frozen lobster tails?
Yes, you can grill frozen lobster tails! Thaw them completely first in the refrigerator overnight. Pat dry before seasoning and grilling. Add 1-2 extra minutes per side when grilling thawed frozen tails.
What temperature do you grill lobster tails?
Get the grill as hot as possible, around 500-600°F. High heat helps sear the lobster shells quickly to lock in juice and flavor. Lower heat will cause the meat to dry out.
Should I boil lobster tails before grilling?
Boiling before grilling is not necessary. The high grill heat will cook the lobster tails thoroughly in just 5-6 minutes total time.
Can I grill lobster tails on a pan/skillet?
Yes, you can grill lobster on a cast iron skillet or pan on the stovetop. Use the same instructions but heat the pan over high heat before adding oiled lobster tails. Grill 2-3 minutes per side.
Conclusion
Grilling lobster tails on the barbecue is one of the best ways to enjoy fresh lobster with bonus smoky flavor. With the shell partially cut, the lobster cooks quickly over high heat. Just 5-6 minutes is needed for tender and juicy seafood. Brush the meat with garlic-herb butter before grilling for incredible results. Serve your grilled lobster with lemon wedges and melted butter for an impressive meal.