Grilled Lobster is a luxurious yet surprisingly approachable dish that brings the taste of the ocean right to your backyard. With its sweet, tender meat and smoky char, this recipe elevates any summer gathering or special occasion. Pair it with a zesty garlic butter sauce, and you have a meal that is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. The vibrant colors and succulent flavors are sure to impress your guests and make any dinner feel like a celebration.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll adore this grilled lobster recipe for its incredible flavor and simplicity. The natural sweetness of the lobster is enhanced by the grilling process, which infuses a delightful smokiness that complements its rich, buttery texture. It’s an easy dish to master, perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for those following a low-carb or keto lifestyle, as it’s high in protein and low in carbohydrates. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this dish is versatile enough to fit any occasion.
Tips and Tricks
- Choose Fresh Lobster: For the best flavor, select live lobsters. Look for ones that are active and have a hard shell.
- Pre-Soak Wooden Skewers: If you’re using skewers to secure the lobster halves, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Marinate: Allow the lobster to marinate for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat.
- Use a Two-Zone Fire: When grilling, create a two-zone fire on your grill – one side for direct heat and one for indirect heat. This allows you to sear the lobster and then move it to indirect heat to finish cooking without burning.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the garlic butter sauce a day in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The lobster can also be cleaned and halved ahead of time; just ensure it’s covered and kept on ice to maintain freshness until you’re ready to grill. If marinating, do so for a maximum of 2 hours to prevent the meat from becoming too mushy.
Recipe Variations
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs in your marinade, such as rosemary, thyme, or dill, for a unique flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to your garlic butter for a spicy twist on the classic flavor.
- Alternate Cooking Methods: If grilling isn’t an option, try broiling the lobster in the oven or steaming it for a healthier version.
How to Serve
Serve the grilled lobster on a large platter, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges for a pop of color. Pair it with sides like grilled corn on the cob, a fresh garden salad, or garlic bread. Drizzle the garlic butter over the lobster just before serving for an added touch of indulgence.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, consider a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light, refreshing cocktail like a mojito. As for sides, a light pasta salad or roasted vegetables complement the dish perfectly. For dessert, a lemon sorbet or panna cotta would be an ideal way to finish the meal on a light note.
How to Store
Leftover grilled lobster can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; it will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, place the lobster in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Equipment Needed
- A grill (charcoal or gas)
- A sharp knife for halving the lobsters
- A basting brush for the garlic butter
- Wooden skewers (if desired)
- A bowl for marinating
Dietary Adaptations
This recipe is naturally gluten-free and low-carb. For a dairy-free option, substitute the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. If you need to avoid shellfish due to allergies, consider using a firm fish like swordfish or a hearty vegetable like portobello mushrooms for grilling.
Seasonal Adaptations
In summer, fresh herbs and bright, seasonal vegetables can enhance the dish. In winter, consider pairing grilled lobster with roasted root vegetables or a warm corn salad to make it hearty. You could also use citrus fruits for a refreshing marinade during the cooler months.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen lobster? Yes, but thaw it completely in the refrigerator before grilling for the best texture.
- How long should I grill lobster? Grill lobster halves for about 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until the flesh is opaque and firm.
- What’s the best way to tell if lobster is done? The meat should be opaque and firm to the touch, and the internal temperature should read 135°F to 140°F.
How To Make grilled lobster recipe
Grilled Lobster
Grilled Lobster is a luxurious yet surprisingly approachable dish that brings the taste of the ocean right to your backyard.
Ingredients
- 2 live lobsters (1-1.5 lbs each)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the lobster. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lobsters for 5-7 minutes. Remove and allow to cool slightly.
- Carefully split the lobsters in half lengthwise using a sharp knife. Remove the stomach and intestinal tract if needed.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the lobster halves with the garlic butter mixture.
- Place the lobster halves shell-side down on the grill. Grill for 5-6 minutes, basting with additional garlic butter as needed. Flip and grill for another 2-4 minutes until the lobster meat is opaque and cooked through.
- Remove from the grill and serve immediately with lemon wedges and any remaining garlic butter for drizzling.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 273Total Fat 24gSaturated Fat 14gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 8gCholesterol 156mgSodium 467mgCarbohydrates 3gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 13g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Grilling lobster may seem intimidating at first, but with this recipe, you’ll discover how easy and rewarding it can be. The combination of smoky flavors and fresh ingredients creates a memorable dish that will impress your family and friends. So fire up that grill, embrace the summer spirit, and enjoy the fruits of the sea with this delectable grilled lobster recipe. Happy cooking!
