Introduction
Lobster has a fascinating history. Once considered a food reserved for prisoners and the poor in colonial America, lobsters were so abundant along the coast that they were often seen as a mere nuisance. It wasn’t until the mid-19th century that lobster started to gain culinary prestige, thanks in part to advances in transportation that allowed it to be shipped inland. By the early 20th century, lobster had firmly established itself as a luxurious delicacy, gracing the menus of upscale restaurants.
Now, let’s dive into the preparation of this timeless and delectable dish.
Preparation
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature ensures that the lobster tails cook quickly while staying tender and juicy.
Take your lobster tails and place them on a clean cutting board, shell side down. Using sharp kitchen shears, carefully cut along the top of the shell lengthwise, stopping at the tail fin. Be sure not to cut through the tail meat.
Now, gently pull the lobster meat from the shell, lifting it up and resting it on top of the shell. The meat should stay attached at the base of the tail.
In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they form a well-blended, aromatic mixture.
Using a brush or a spoon, generously coat the exposed lobster meat with the lemon garlic butter mixture. Ensure that the lobster meat is thoroughly coated for maximum flavor.
Place a sheet of aluminum foil on a baking sheet to prevent sticking. Arrange the prepared lobster tails on the baking sheet, with the meat side facing up. Drizzle any remaining lemon garlic butter over the top of the tails.
Now, it’s time to bake your lobster tails. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and let them cook for 12-15 minutes. The lobster meat should become opaque and white, with the edges just beginning to turn golden brown.
Once your lobster tails are beautifully baked, carefully remove them from the oven. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. Serve your Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Lobster Tails immediately, hot and succulent.
Tips and Tricks
- To ensure even cooking, you can place a small ramekin filled with water in the oven while baking. This helps maintain a moist cooking environment.
- Don’t overcook your lobster tails; they can become tough and rubbery. Keep a close eye on them in the final minutes of baking.
- Serve with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted asparagus or garlic mashed potatoes, to complete the meal.
Conclusion
Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Lobster Tails are a delightful way to elevate any occasion, from a special date night to a festive gathering with friends and family. With its rich history and timeless appeal, lobster continues to be a symbol of indulgence and luxury. By following this recipe, you can recreate that sense of opulence in the comfort of your own kitchen. So, go ahead and treat yourself to a taste of the extraordinary with this mouthwatering lobster dish. Enjoy!