Baked Lobster Tails Recipe

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Cook Time: 15 minutes

This buttery baked lobster tail recipe is perfect for Valentine's Day, a fancy date night, or whenever you want to treat yourself. Follow the simple steps below to create a delicious and impressive dish right at home.

Heres an overview of the process:

• Prepare and butterfly the lobster tails.
• Mix the butter and seasonings.
• Season the lobster, coat each tail with butter, and squeeze lemon juice over the top.
• Bake the lobster tails in the preheated oven.

Ingredients

• 8 small lobster tails
• 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
• 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 pinch seafood seasoning (like Old Bay), or to taste
• 1/2 lemon, juiced

Directions

Step 1: Gather all your ingredients and preheat the oven to 400F (200C).

Step 2: Using kitchen shears, carefully cut the lobster tails down the center, lengthwise. Pull the lobster meat through the cut and lay it on top of the shell, creating a butterfly effect. Arrange the lobster tails in an oven-safe baking dish.

Step 3: In a bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Stir well to mix everything together.

Step 4: Season the lobster tails with seafood seasoning to your taste. Drizzle the butter mixture generously over the lobster meat, ensuring each tail is fully coated. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for a bright, tangy flavor.

Step 5: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the lobster tails for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the shells turn bright red and the meat becomes opaque. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the lobster; it should read between 140F and 145F (60C to 63C).

How Long to Bake Lobster Tails

You'll know your lobster tails are perfectly cooked when the shells are bright red, and the meat is opaque and tender. This should take approximately 12 to 15 minutes in a 400F oven.

An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the lobster meat should read between 140F and 145F (60C to 63C).

What to Serve With Baked Lobster Tails

For a complete meal, pair the lobster tails with one of these delicious side dishes:

• Simple Pasta Salad
• Broccoli with Lemon Butter Sauce
• Mushroom Risotto

Since the oven will already be in use, these stovetop or countertop recipes are great for saving time:

• Simple Pasta Salad
• Broccoli with Lemon Butter Sauce
• Mushroom Risotto

Can You Use Frozen Lobster Tails?

Yes! This recipe works just as well with frozen lobster tails. Simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before following the steps in the recipe.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 207
• Fat: 14g (18% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 9g (44% DV)
• Cholesterol: 98mg (33% DV)
• Sodium: 434mg (19% DV)
• Carbohydrates: 2g (1% DV)
• Protein: 18g (36% DV)
• Calcium: 58mg (4% DV)
• Iron: 0mg (2% DV)
• Potassium: 315mg (7% DV)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

These buttery baked lobster tails, smothered with garlic butter and lemon juice, are the epitome of indulgence, offering tender, juicy meat in just 15 minutes. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this dish promises a gourmet experience that's surprisingly easy to prepare.

Origin of Lobster Tails

The use of lobster as a culinary delight dates back centuries. Lobster was initially seen as a food for the poor due to its abundance along the New England coastline. In the 19th century, lobster became a symbol of luxury and refinement as its availability dwindled and its preparation evolved. The concept of lobster tails as a separate, easily prepared cut came into prominence in the 20th century, especially in North American fine dining. Baked lobster tails, in particular, gained popularity for their ease of preparation and rich, decadent flavor.

Regional Variations

Although baked lobster tails are a common dish in the United States, especially along the coastal regions like Maine, Florida, and California, regional variations abound. In Maine, for instance, lobster is often boiled and served with butter, while Floridian preparations might feature a more tropical twist, adding citrus or spice. In some regions, lobster tails are grilled or served with a tangy barbecue sauce. However, the basic concept of baking lobster with butter, garlic, and herbs remains a standard method for achieving a flavorful and tender result across different regions.

Distinguishing Features

What sets baked lobster tails apart from other lobster preparations, such as boiled or grilled lobster, is the unique cooking method that involves the lobster being baked with a rich, flavorful butter sauce. This method infuses the lobster meat with the butter and seasoning, resulting in a juicier, more succulent bite compared to boiling, which can sometimes leave the lobster dry. Additionally, baking allows for more control over cooking time, minimizing the risk of overcooking the delicate lobster meat.

Where to Serve Baked Lobster Tails

Baked lobster tails are typically reserved for special occasions, such as romantic dinners, holiday feasts, or celebrations like New Year's Eve. It's commonly found on fine dining menus in upscale restaurants, particularly those near the coast. In homes, its often served for a luxurious dinner party, a Valentine's Day meal, or even as a centerpiece for a festive gathering. Paired with side dishes like garlic bread, asparagus, or a fresh salad, lobster tails make for an impressive and elegant meal.

Fun Facts About Lobster Tails

• Lobsters can live for up to 100 years, though most are harvested between 5 and 7 years old.
• The largest lobster ever recorded weighed 44 pounds and 6 ounces and was caught off the coast of Maine in 1977.
• While lobsters are often associated with luxury dining, they were once considered poor man's food in the 19th century due to their abundance.
• Lobster tails are a popular option because they are easier to prepare and serve compared to whole lobsters, which can be more labor-intensive to eat.

Conclusion

Baked lobster tails offer a unique balance of simplicity and elegance, making them the perfect choice for a variety of occasions. Whether you're hosting a romantic dinner or preparing a gourmet meal for yourself, this dish delivers on both flavor and presentation. With a bit of butter, garlic, and lemon, you can create a dish that evokes the luxury and allure of coastal cuisine. Enjoy the decadence of baked lobster tails with a glass of white wine or sparkling water for a truly refined dining experience.

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