Connecticut Grilled Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter

Introduction

There's nothing quite like the taste of freshly grilled lobster tails, basted in rich garlic butter. By using the Arteflame grill, you achieve a perfect sear on the center grill grate at over 1,000°F, locking in the juices for a tender, flavorful bite. This Connecticut-inspired take on grilled lobster keeps things simple yet incredibly delicious.

Ingredients

• 4 lobster tails, split in half
• 8 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins inside the grill and stack firewood over them.
3. Light the napkins to ignite the firewood.
4. Allow the grill to heat for about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop is evenly heated.

Step 2: Prepare the Lobster Tails

1. Use kitchen shears to split lobster tails in half lengthwise.
2. Gently pull the lobster meat upward to expose it while keeping it attached to the shell.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter

1. Melt butter on the outer edge of the Arteflame cooktop where the heat is mild.
2. Stir in minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped parsley.

Step 4: Grill the Lobster Tails

1. Place the lobster tails meat-side down on the center grill grate for about 1 minute to sear.
2. Flip them shell-side down and move them to the flat cooktop griddle.
3. Baste generously with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Continue grilling for another 5-7 minutes until the meat is opaque and firm.
5. Remove when the internal temperature reaches 130°F, as it will continue to rise.

Step 5: Serve

1. Transfer lobster tails to a serving platter.
2. Drizzle with remaining garlic butter.
3. Serve with lemon wedges.

Tips

• To avoid overcooking, remove the lobster from the grill at 130°F.
• Use a basting brush to evenly coat lobster tails with garlic butter.
• Grill additional seafood like shrimp or scallops on the flat cooktop for a full seafood platter.

Variations

1. Spicy Cajun: Add a teaspoon of Cajun seasoning to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.
2. Honey Garlic: Mix 1 tbsp honey into the garlic butter for a sweet-savory flavor.
3. Lemon Herb: Blend in fresh thyme and rosemary for a citrusy herbaceous twist.
4. Asian Fusion: Add 1 tbsp soy sauce and a dash of sesame oil for a umami boost.
5. Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap lobster in thin bacon slices and grill for a smoky, crispy texture.

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus or blistered cherry tomatoes
• Garlic mashed potatoes or grilled corn on the cob
• A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay
• Homemade coleslaw for a refreshing contrast

Conclusion

Cooking Connecticut-style grilled lobster tails on the Arteflame grill ensures incredible flavor and a stunning presentation. The combination of high-heat searing and gentle but consistent cooking on the flat top cooktop brings out the lobster’s natural sweetness while infusing it with rich garlic butter.