California Big Sur Grilled Lobster Tails

Introduction

Enjoy the rich, smoky flavors of Big Sur’s coastal cuisine with these California grilled lobster tails. Cooked over an Arteflame grill, these lobster tails are brushed with garlic butter and perfectly grilled to enhance their natural sweetness. The high-heat searing locks in juices, providing a steakhouse-quality experience with every bite.

Ingredients

• 4 lobster tails
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins.
4. Light the paper and allow the fire to heat the grill for 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Lobster Tails

1. Using kitchen shears, cut through the top of each lobster shell lengthwise.
2. Gently pull the meat out, keeping it attached at the base.
3. Rest the meat on top of the shell.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter

1. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Brush the mixture generously over each lobster tail.

Step 4: Grill the Lobster Tails

1. Place the lobster tails meat-side down on the center grill grate for 1-2 minutes to sear.
2. Flip them over and move them to the flat cooktop to continue cooking.
3. Brush with more garlic butter as they cook.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

1. Grill until the lobster meat is opaque and reaches an internal temperature of 135°F.
2. Remove from the grill (temperature will rise to 145°F off the heat).
3. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Tips

• Use fresh lobster tails for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook—lobster becomes rubbery if grilled too long.
• Keep basting with garlic butter for extra juiciness.
• Use hardwood for a rich, smoky taste.
• Always remove from heat 15°F before reaching your target temperature.

Variations

1. Spicy Cajun: Add 1 tsp Cajun seasoning and a pinch of cayenne to the garlic butter.
2. Herb Butter: Mix in chopped thyme and rosemary for an herby flavor.
3. Garlic Parmesan: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the lobster before serving.
4. Asian Fusion: Replace lemon juice with soy sauce and add a dash of ginger and sesame oil.
5. Honey-Lime: Swap lemon juice for lime juice and add 1 tbsp honey to the butter mixture.

Conclusion

These grilled lobster tails capture the flavor of California’s coast, bringing a delicious smoky taste and tender juiciness to every bite. Whether you keep it classic or try a variation, this recipe is sure to impress.

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus with garlic butter
• Charred corn on the cob
• Light summer salad with citrus dressing
• Chilled white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc
• Buttery mashed potatoes with fresh herbs