Baking lobster tails in the oven is a delicious and relatively simple way to prepare this seafood delicacy. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you:
Ingredients:
- Lobster tails
- Butter (melted)
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: garlic, herbs (such as parsley or thyme) for added flavor
Instructions:
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to preheat while you prepare the lobster tails.
Prepare the lobster tails: Using kitchen shears or a sharp knife, carefully cut along the top of each lobster tail's shell. Start from the open end and cut all the way to the tail. Be sure not to cut through the bottom shell.
Loosen the meat: Gently spread the shell apart to reveal the lobster meat. Be careful not to detach the meat from the shell completely; you want it to remain attached at the base of the tail.
Season the lobster: Drizzle melted butter over the exposed lobster meat. Sprinkle some salt and pepper to taste. If desired, you can also add minced garlic and chopped herbs to enhance the flavor.
Bake the lobster tails: Place the prepared lobster tails on a baking sheet, keeping the meat side facing up. You can use a foil-lined baking sheet for easier cleanup.
Cooking time: The baking time will depend on the size of the lobster tails. As a general guideline, for 4-ounce lobster tails, bake for about 12-15 minutes. For larger tails, adjust the cooking time accordingly. The meat should be opaque and firm when done.
Baste the lobster tails: Halfway through the baking time, open the oven and baste the lobster tails with more melted butter. This will keep them moist and add more flavor.
Optional broiling: If you desire a slightly crispy and golden top, you can turn on the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Serve: Once the lobster tails are cooked to perfection, remove them from the oven. Plate them up and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing.
Enjoy your delicious baked lobster tails! They pair well with various side dishes, such as garlic butter dipping sauce, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad.