Zesty Citrus Broiled Lobster Tails

🕒 Prep: 5 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 2
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If you're craving a restaurant-quality meal without leaving your home, these Zesty Citrus Broiled Lobster Tails are a must-try. This recipe combines the luxurious taste of lobster with the vibrant flavors of citrus, ensuring a delightful dining experience.

Ingredients for Zesty Citrus Broiled Lobster Tails

The star of the show is, of course, the lobster tails, which offer tender, sweet meat. The butter adds richness and helps the flavors meld together beautifully. A blend of lemon juice and lime juice introduces a zesty freshness that cuts through the buttery goodness. Garlic provides a savory depth, while smoked paprika and cayenne pepper bring a hint of smokiness and spice to the dish. Finally, a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and herbaceousness.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra flavor, marinate the lobster tails in the citrus mixture for 15 minutes before broiling.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the lobster reaches 140°F for perfect doneness.
  • If you're new to cooking lobster, check for opaqueness to determine doneness—it's the most reliable visual cue.

Serving Suggestions

These broiled lobster tails pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. Steamed asparagus or roasted potatoes also make excellent side dishes. For a true feast, serve alongside a chilled glass of white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen lobster tails?
Absolutely, just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before starting the recipe.
What if I don't have smoked paprika?
Regular paprika will work in a pinch, though it won't have the same smoky undertone.
How can I tell if my lobster is fresh?
Fresh lobster tails should have a clean ocean smell and firm, translucent meat.

Zesty Citrus Broiled Lobster Tails Recipe Walkthrough

First off, let's get your oven ready by preheating the broiler on high. Make sure your oven rack is positioned about 6 inches from the top—this ensures your lobster cooks evenly and gets that nice broiled finish.

Next, grab those lobster tails. Using kitchen shears, carefully cut through the top shell from the front to the back. This step is crucial for easy access to the meat. Gently pull apart the shell so the meat is nicely exposed.

Now for the flavor magic: In a small bowl, mix together your melted butter, lemon juice, lime juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture will infuse the lobster with incredible flavor.

Brush the buttery citrus mixture generously over the lobster meat. Make sure every bit is well-coated—this is where the magic happens! Place the lobster tails on a broiler pan, ready for their transformation.

Pop them under the broiler and let them cook for about 8-10 minutes. You'll know they're done when the meat turns opaque and firms up. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, as lobster can turn rubbery if left too long.

Once done, pull them out, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a touch of color, and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight treat.
  • The citrusy zest balances the rich, buttery lobster meat beautifully.
  • Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor, and no fancy techniques required.
  • Impressive presentation with minimal effort.

Ingredients

2 lobster tails (6-8 oz each)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges for serving

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the broiler on high and position the oven rack 6 inches from the top.
2. Using kitchen shears, cut the top shell of the lobster tails lengthwise, then gently spread the shell apart to expose the meat.
3. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, lemon juice, lime juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the mixture generously over the lobster meat, ensuring it is well-coated.
5. Place the lobster tails on a broiler pan and broil for 8-10 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and cooked through.
6. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.

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