GARLIC BUTTER LOBSTER TAIL

#### Instructions:

##### 1. **Prep the Lobster Tails**:
– Begin by **thawing** the lobster tails if they are frozen. To thaw, place them in the refrigerator for several hours or run them under cold water for 30 minutes.
– Using a sharp pair of kitchen scissors, **cut through the top of the lobster shell**, stopping just before the tail fin. You want to be careful not to cut all the way through the lobster meat. Then, **gently pull apart the shell** to expose the lobster meat.
– **Butterfly the lobster tail** by carefully pulling the meat out from the shell, but leave the end of the tail attached. Rest the lobster meat on top of the shell. This technique helps the lobster cook evenly and creates an impressive presentation.

##### 2. **Make the Garlic Butter Sauce**:
– In a small saucepan, **melt the butter** over medium heat. Once melted, add the **minced garlic** and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant (but not browned).
– Stir in the **lemon juice**, **lemon zest** (if using), **smoked paprika**, and **parsley**. Season with **salt** and **pepper** to taste. Continue stirring until everything is well combined, and the garlic is soft and aromatic. Remove from heat.

##### 3. **Prepare the Lobster Tails for Cooking**:
– Preheat your **oven** to **425°F (220°C)** if you plan to bake or broil the lobster tails. If grilling, heat your grill to medium-high heat.
– Brush the exposed lobster meat with a generous amount of the **garlic butter sauce**. Make sure the lobster is well-coated with the butter mixture, as this will infuse it with flavor while cooking.

##### 4. **Cook the Lobster Tails**:
– **Baking**: Arrange the lobster tails on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for **12-15 minutes**, or until the lobster meat is opaque and slightly firm to the touch. The internal temperature should reach about **140°F (60°C)** when measured with a meat thermometer.
– **Broiling**: If you prefer a slightly caramelized, crispy finish, broil the lobster tails for **6-8 minutes**. Keep a close eye on them, as broilers cook quickly. The lobster meat should be golden and opaque.
– **Grilling**: Alternatively, you can grill the lobster tails. Place them meat-side down on the grill and cook for about **5-7 minutes**. Flip the tails over and grill the shell-side for another **2-3 minutes** to ensure everything cooks through.

##### 5. **Serve and Garnish**:
– Once the lobster tails are cooked, **remove them from the heat** and drizzle with any remaining garlic butter sauce.
– Garnish with **lemon wedges** and a sprinkle of **fresh parsley** for added color and freshness.
– Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as **roasted vegetables**, a **fresh salad**, or **garlic bread**.

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### Tips for the Perfect Garlic Butter Lobster Tail

– **Don’t Overcook**: Lobster cooks quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. Keep a close eye on your lobster tails, and check for doneness by looking for opaque, firm meat.

– **Use Fresh Lobster**: While frozen lobster tails work well, fresh lobster will give you the best flavor. If you can find fresh lobster tails at your local seafood market, definitely give them a try.

– **Add Heat**: For a bit of spice, you can mix a pinch of **cayenne pepper** or **red pepper flakes** into the garlic butter. The heat from the spices will complement the sweetness of the lobster for a more complex flavor.

– **Make Extra Garlic Butter**: There’s no such thing as too much garlic butter! Consider doubling the butter recipe so you can drizzle extra over the lobster, or use it as a dipping sauce.

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### Why Garlic Butter Lobster Tail is a Must-Try

**Garlic Butter Lobster Tail** is one of those dishes that feels special but is surprisingly easy to prepare. It’s the perfect way to enjoy succulent lobster with a rich, flavorful garlic butter sauce that takes the dish to the next level. Whether you’re cooking for a special event or simply craving an indulgent treat, this recipe is sure to impress.

With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a dish anyone can master. Plus, the buttery, garlic-infused lobster is always a hit with seafood lovers. So, go ahead — treat yourself to this luxury at home, and enjoy the flavors of the sea in the most indulgent way possible!