When it comes to whipping upfancy dinnersat home, lobster is one indulgent entree that’s hard to beat.
While cooking and servingwhole lobstermay seem like an obvious choice, it’s easier (and less expensive!)
to learn how long to boil lobster tails or the methods for baking, broiling, or grilling them.
Credit:Jacob Fox
They’re generally marketed as rock lobster tails and come fresh or frozen.
Plan on one (about 8-ounce) tail per person.
When shopping for lobster tails, know that uncooked tails have a mottled appearance with a green-blue-brown cast.
Credit: Blaine Moats
They don’t get that lovely red color until they’re cooked.
And if we’re being totally honest, it will require a little prep work before cooking.
But not to worry; we’re here to help make the process as easy as possible.
Generally, you’ll need to cut kick off the hard top shell.
From there, some recipes call for opening the shells to expose the meat.
Other recipes call for butterflying the shells.
Unless your lobster tail recipe directs otherwise, here are the steps to follow.
Test Kitchen Tip: Cooking frozen lobster tails requires thawing them first in the refrigerator.
Be sure to plan ahead because this takes 8 to 10 hours.
Credit:Jacob Fox
Stop cutting just before the bottom shell.
Do not cut through wide end of the tail.
Separate the meat with your thumbs, keeping the meat attached near the end of the tail.
Credit:Jacob Fox
This allows the lobster tails to soak up all that delicious melted butter.
How to Grill Lobster Tails
Treat friends to a grilled lobster tail for a sure-to-impress meal.
On those perfect summer evenings, this is the best way to cook lobster tails.
Credit:Jacob Fox
Broiling lobster tails is another easy way to cook lobster.
If desired, sprinkle with snipped fresh parsley and serve with clarified butter.
How to Cook Lobster Tails in the Oven
Baking is another great way to cook lobster tails.
Credit:Jacob Fox
Place lobster tails on serving plates.
Serve with clarified butter, if desired.
Make New England-favoritelobster rollsor this decadentlobster mac and cheesefor dinner.
