Maine Grilled Lobster Rolls with Lemon Butter

Introduction

Grilled lobster rolls are a luxurious yet simple dish that highlights the rich, buttery flavor of freshly grilled Maine lobster. Using the Arteflame grill, we sear the lobster meat on the center grill grate at 1,000°F, then finish it with lemon butter and fresh herbs on the flat cooktop. Served in butter-toasted rolls, these lobster rolls are packed with flavor and texture for the ultimate seafood experience.

Ingredients

• 4 Maine lobster tails
• 4 brioche or split-top hot dog rolls
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
3. Light the napkins and allow the fire to heat up for about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop and center grill grate are ready for grilling.

Step 2: Prepare the lobster tails

1. Use kitchen shears to cut through the lobster shells and gently pull the meat out slightly while keeping it attached at the base.
2. Brush the lobster meat with 2 tbsp of melted butter and season with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika.

Step 3: Grill the lobster tails

1. Place the lobster tails flesh-side down onto the center grill grate to sear for 1-2 minutes at 1,000°F.
2. Flip the tails and move them to the flat cooktop to continue cooking for 4-6 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 135°F.
3. Brush the tails with more melted butter while they cook.

Step 4: Prepare the lemon butter mixture

1. In a small bowl, mix the remaining melted butter with lemon juice, chives, and parsley.

Step 5: Toast the rolls

1. Place the brioche rolls on the flat cooktop toasting surface and grill until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side.

Step 6: Assemble the lobster rolls

1. Remove the lobster meat from the shells and chop it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Toss the grilled lobster with the lemon butter mixture.
3. Fill the toasted rolls with the lobster mixture and serve with lemon wedges.

Tips

• Remove the lobster from the grill when the internal temperature is 15°F below the desired doneness, as it will continue cooking off the heat.
• For added smokiness, use hardwood like oak or hickory.
• Warm the rolls in butter for extra richness.

Variations

1. Spicy Lobster Rolls: Add a dash of cayenne pepper and a drizzle of sriracha to the butter mixture for a spicy kick.
2. Garlic Butter Lobster Rolls: Double the garlic powder and add minced roasted garlic to the butter for an intense garlic flavor.
3. Cajun Lobster Rolls: Use Cajun seasoning instead of paprika to give the lobster a Southern-inspired flavor.
4. Avocado Lobster Rolls: Add sliced avocado and a squeeze of lime for a creamy twist.
5. Bacon Lobster Rolls: Mix crispy crumbled bacon into the lobster salad for a smoky crunch.

Best Pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob with garlic butter
• Crispy potato wedges cooked on the flat cooktop
• Fresh coleslaw for a refreshing crunch
• Chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
• Classic lemonade for a refreshing balance

Conclusion

These Maine grilled lobster rolls are a perfect summer dish, combining fresh seafood with buttery, toasty rolls. Using the Arteflame grill ensures the lobster remains juicy and flavorful while the rolls are perfectly toasted. Try any of the variations for a unique twist, and enjoy the taste of seaside luxury right at home.