Grilled rock lobster tails are a luxurious and delightful dish perfect for special occasions or a fancy dinner at home. The combination of butter, garlic, and lemon juice enhances the natural sweetness of the lobster meat, making it a truly mouthwatering experience.
While most of the ingredients in this recipe are common, rock lobster tails might not be something you have on hand. You can find them in the seafood section of your supermarket, often in the frozen foods aisle. Make sure to select fresh or properly frozen lobster tails for the best flavor.

Ingredients For Grilled Rock Lobster Tails Recipe
Rock lobster tails: The main ingredient, providing a rich and succulent seafood flavor.
Butter: Adds richness and helps to keep the lobster meat moist during grilling.
Garlic: Infuses the lobster with a savory aroma and taste.
Lemon juice: Adds a bright, tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the lobster.
Paprika: Provides a subtle smoky flavor and a touch of color to the dish.
Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the lobster.
Pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the seasoning.
Technique Tip for Grilling Lobster Tails
When preparing rock lobster tails, ensure you use a sharp knife to cut through the shells cleanly. This not only makes it easier to season the meat but also allows the butter mixture to penetrate better, enhancing the flavor. Additionally, be mindful of the grill temperature; medium-high heat is crucial to cook the lobster evenly without burning the shells.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
rock lobster tails - Substitute with shrimp: Shrimp has a similar texture and flavor profile when grilled, making it a suitable alternative.
rock lobster tails - Substitute with crab legs: Crab legs offer a sweet and tender meat that can mimic the luxurious taste of lobster.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a rich flavor and can withstand high grilling temperatures.
butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee has a higher smoke point and a nutty flavor that complements seafood well.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor that can enhance the dish without overpowering it.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor profile and is convenient to use.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor that pairs well with seafood.
lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar provides the necessary acidity and a subtle fruity flavor.
paprika - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit more heat but can provide a similar depth of flavor.
paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika offers a smoky flavor that can enhance the grilled taste.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds saltiness along with a rich umami flavor.
pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat but with a slightly different, more subtle flavor.
Alternative Recipes Similar to Grilled Lobster Tails
How to Store or Freeze Your Lobster Tails
- Allow the grilled rock lobster tails to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the lobster tails soggy.
- Wrap each lobster tail individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This ensures that they are well-protected from air and moisture, maintaining their flavor and texture.
- Place the wrapped lobster tails in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date of storage. This helps you keep track of how long the lobster tails have been stored.
- Store the lobster tails in the refrigerator if you plan to eat them within 2-3 days. For longer storage, place them in the freezer where they can last up to 3 months.
- When ready to reheat, thaw frozen lobster tails in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid using a microwave to defrost as it can alter the texture of the meat.
- Reheat the lobster tails by placing them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through. You can also reheat them on a grill for a few minutes, brushing with additional butter if desired.
- Serve the reheated lobster tails with fresh lemon wedges and a side of garlic butter for an extra burst of flavor.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the lobster tails in aluminum foil, adding a small pat of butter and a splash of lemon juice inside the foil to keep them moist. Place the wrapped tails on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the pan. Place the lobster tails meat side down and cook for about 3-4 minutes, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Add a splash of lemon juice for extra flavor.
Microwave Method: Place the lobster tails in a microwave-safe dish. Add a small amount of butter and cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking. Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Steaming Method: Fill a pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a boil. Place a steamer basket over the boiling water and add the lobster tails. Cover and steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. Drizzle with melted butter and lemon juice before serving.
Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Wrap the lobster tails in aluminum foil with a small pat of butter and a splash of lemon juice. Place the wrapped tails on the grill and heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until warmed through.
Essential Tools for Grilling Lobster Tails
Grill: Used to cook the lobster tails, providing a smoky flavor and charred texture.
Sharp knife: Essential for cutting the top of the lobster shells lengthwise.
Small bowl: Used to mix the melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, and paprika.
Basting brush: For brushing the butter mixture over the lobster meat.
Tongs: Handy for placing the lobster tails on the grill and removing them once cooked.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting the lobster shells.
Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of ingredients like butter, lemon juice, and paprika.
Garlic press: Useful for mincing the garlic cloves efficiently.
Serving platter: For presenting the grilled lobster tails once they are cooked.
Lemon wedges: Optional, for serving alongside the lobster tails.
Time-Saving Tips for Grilling Lobster Tails
Pre-mix the marinade: Combine the butter, garlic, lemon juice, and paprika ahead of time and store it in the fridge.
Prep the lobster tails: Cut and season the lobster tails in advance, then refrigerate them until ready to grill.
Use a grill basket: Place the lobster tails in a grill basket to make flipping and removing them easier.
Quick clean-up: Line the grill with foil to save time on cleaning after grilling the lobster tails.

Grilled Rock Lobster Tails Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces Rock lobster tails
- ¼ cup Butter, melted
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the top of the lobster shells lengthwise down the middle. Pull apart shells slightly, and season meat with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, and paprika.
- Brush the mixture over the lobster meat.
- Place the lobster tails on the preheated grill, meat side up. Grill for 10 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and firm to the touch.
- Remove from the grill and serve immediately with additional lemon wedges if desired.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
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