Ingredients
- 2 lobster tails (8–10 ounces each)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 5 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lobster
Using kitchen shears, cut through the top shell of each lobster tail. Carefully remove the meat while keeping it intact. Slice the lobster meat into thick medallions approximately one inch thick.
Pat the lobster dry using paper towels. Season both sides with paprika, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add butter and allow it to melt completely.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Step 3: Cook the Lobster
Place the lobster medallions into the skillet.
Cook for approximately 2–3 minutes on each side until the meat becomes opaque and reaches an internal temperature of 140–145°F (60–63°C).
Avoid overcooking, as lobster becomes tough when cooked too long.
Step 4: Finish the Sauce
Add lemon juice, chopped parsley, and thyme.
Spoon the garlic butter sauce over each lobster medallion for another minute.
Remove from heat immediately.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the lobster medallions with extra garlic butter spooned over the top.
Excellent side dishes include:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Garlic parmesan pasta
- Buttered asparagus
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Wild rice pilaf
- Toasted artisan bread
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Lobster
- Use fresh lobster whenever possible for the sweetest flavor.
- Dry the lobster before cooking to achieve better browning.
- Fresh garlic provides significantly better flavor than garlic powder.
- Unsalted butter allows better control of seasoning.
- Fresh herbs add brightness and elevate the final dish.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet.
- Cook lobster only until opaque to maintain tenderness.
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 430
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 31g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Cholesterol: 215mg
- Sodium: 620mg
Best Side Dishes
Garlic Butter Lobster Medallions pair well with:
- Parmesan risotto
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Roasted garlic green beans
- Lemon herb rice
- Caesar salad
- Buttered corn
- Grilled asparagus
- Garlic bread
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days in the refrigerator.
Reheat gently in butter over low heat. Avoid microwaving for extended periods because lobster can become rubbery.
Freezing is not recommended after cooking because the texture may change.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are lobster medallions?
Lobster medallions are thick slices of lobster tail meat cut into round portions before cooking, creating an elegant presentation and even cooking.
2. Can I use frozen lobster tails?
Yes. Thaw them completely overnight in the refrigerator before cooking for the best texture.
3. How do I know when lobster is fully cooked?
The meat should be opaque white with slight translucency in the center and reach an internal temperature of 140–145°F.
4. Why is my lobster tough?
Overcooking is the most common reason. Lobster cooks very quickly and should be removed from heat as soon as it becomes opaque.
5. Can I make garlic butter in advance?
Yes. Prepare the garlic butter up to three days ahead and refrigerate it. Reheat gently before using.
6. Which butter is best?
High-quality European-style butter provides a richer flavor due to its higher butterfat content, but regular unsalted butter also works well.
7. Can I grill the lobster medallions?
Absolutely. Grill over medium-high heat for about 2–3 minutes per side, then finish with garlic butter.
8. What wine pairs best with lobster?
Crisp white wines such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Champagne complement the delicate sweetness of lobster.
9. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes. Garlic Butter Lobster Medallions are naturally low in carbohydrates and fit well into ketogenic and low-carb diets.
10. Can I add cheese?
While traditional lobster recipes typically do not include cheese, a light sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan can add extra richness if desired.
