Description

Tender lobster tails poached gently in butter with garlic, thyme, and lemon zest for a melt-in-your-mouth seafood experience. This easy recipe delivers elegant results perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

2 large lobster tails (6–8 ounces each), fresh or thawed frozen
1 cup (225g) unsalted butter
3 garlic cloves, smashed
3–4 sprigs fresh thyme (or substitute with tarragon, parsley, or rosemary)
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Using kitchen shears, cut down the top of the lobster shell lengthwise, stopping just before the tail fin. Gently pry the shell open and lift the meat, laying it on top, still attached at the base.
In a medium saucepan or skillet, melt 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter over low heat. Add smashed garlic cloves and fresh thyme sprigs. Keep the heat low so the butter doesn’t brown, aiming for gentle bubbles.
Stir in the lemon zest, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Let the flavors infuse for a minute or two.
Place the prepared lobster tails meat-side down into the warm butter. Reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Poach for about 4-5 minutes, then carefully flip the tails meat-side up using tongs. Continue poaching for another 4-5 minutes until the lobster meat is opaque and springy to the touch.
Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches about 140°F (60°C) or the meat is white and firm but tender.
Remove the tails from the butter and plate them. Spoon some of the flavored butter over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme or a lemon wedge if desired.

Notes

Keep the butter temperature low to avoid toughening the lobster and browning the butter. Use good quality unsalted butter for best flavor. Leftover butter can be strained and used as a dipping sauce or for cooking other dishes. Thaw frozen lobster tails slowly in the fridge overnight for best texture. Do not overcook lobster tails to avoid rubbery meat.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 lobster tail
Calories: 325
Fat: 25
Carbohydrates: 1
Protein: 27.5

Keywords: butter poached lobster tails, lobster tails recipe, seafood, easy lobster recipe, poached lobster, garlic butter lobster