First Step: PREPARE THE LOBSTER TAILS

1. Thaw the Lobster Tails: If you’re using frozen lobster tails, make sure to thaw them completely by placing them in the refrigerator for 8-12 hours or running them under cold water for about 30 minutes.
2. Cut the Lobster Tails: Using kitchen shears or a sharp knife, carefully cut down the top of each lobster shell (the hard, top part). Be sure to cut through the shell but not the meat underneath. Gently pull apart the shell, exposing the lobster meat. This technique is known as “spooning” the lobster tail, making it easier to cook and absorb the flavors of the garlic butter.
3. Remove the Vein: If necessary, remove the vein running down the center of the lobster tail. This is often a dark line and is considered inedible.
4. Butterfly the Lobster Meat: Using a sharp knife, cut the lobster meat down the center, creating a “butterfly” shape. This helps the meat cook evenly and makes for a beautiful presentation.
5. Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush the lobster meat with olive oil to help it cook more evenly and to enhance its natural flavor.

Second Step: MAKE THE GARLIC BUTTER SAUCE

1. Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Be careful not to burn it. Once melted, add the minced garlic to the butter.
2. Sauté the Garlic: Cook the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant and golden. Be careful not to let it brown too much, as burnt garlic can become bitter.
3. Add Lemon Juice and Seasoning: Stir in the lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything well and set aside.
4. Add Fresh Parsley: Just before using, stir in the freshly chopped parsley. This will add a fresh, herby element to the sauce.

Third Step: COOK THE LOBSTER TAILS

You have three great options for cooking your lobster tails: baking, broiling, or grilling. Each method offers its own benefits, but all of them work wonderfully with the garlic butter sauce. Below are the instructions for each cooking method.

Option 1: Baked Lobster Tails

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Lobster Tails: Arrange the prepared lobster tails on the baking sheet, making sure the meat is exposed and the shell is facing down.
3. Brush with Garlic Butter: Generously brush the lobster meat with the garlic butter sauce, ensuring it’s well-coated.
4. Bake the Lobster Tails: Bake the lobster tails for 12-15 minutes, depending on the size of the tails. The lobster meat should be opaque and firm to the touch, and the internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C).
5. Finish with Lemon: Once done, remove the lobster tails from the oven and drizzle with a little more garlic butter. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for added brightness.

Option 2: Broiled Lobster Tails

1. Preheat the Broiler: Set your oven’s broiler to high and position the rack about 6 inches from the heat source.
2. Prepare the Lobster Tails: Arrange the lobster tails on a baking sheet or broiler pan, meat side up. Brush the lobster meat with garlic butter.
3. Broil the Lobster Tails: Broil the lobster tails for about 8-10 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and firm. The tops of the lobster tails should begin to brown slightly.
4. Finish with Lemon: Drizzle the lobster with more garlic butter and serve with lemon wedges.

Option 3: Grilled Lobster Tails

1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C).
2. Prepare the Lobster Tails: Brush the lobster meat with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. For grilling, you can either cook the lobster tails with the shell on (split lengthwise) or remove the shell completely.
3. Grill the Lobster Tails: Place the lobster tails on the grill, meat side down, and cook for 5-7 minutes. Flip the tails over and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and slightly charred.
4. Finish with Garlic Butter: Once the lobster is done, brush the lobster meat with the garlic butter sauce and serve with lemon wedges.

Final Step: GARNISH AND SERVE

1. Drizzle with More Garlic Butter: After cooking, drizzle the lobster tails with any remaining garlic butter sauce. This will enhance the flavor and add a glossy finish.
2. Garnish with Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the lobster tails for a fresh, colorful presentation.
3. Serve with Lemon: Serve the lobster tails with lemon wedges on the side. The citrusy burst will complement the rich butter and brighten the dish.