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Valentine’s Day Lobster Tail: Easy Garlic Butter Recipe for Two

Valentine’s Day Lobster Tail - featured image

This romantic lobster tail recipe features sweet, tender lobster baked with a rich garlic butter sauce, finished with fresh herbs and lemon. Perfect for Valentine’s Day or any special dinner for two, it’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium lobster tails (56 oz each, fresh or frozen—thawed if frozen)
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
  • 3 large garlic cloves (minced)
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • Zest from 1 lemon (optional but recommended)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs (or dried thyme/oregano)
  • 1/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly cracked preferred)
  • 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil.
  2. Butterfly the lobster tails: Using sharp kitchen shears, cut down the center of each shell, stopping at the tail fin. Gently pull the meat upward and rest it on top of the shell.
  3. In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, Italian herbs, parsley, salt, pepper, and paprika until well blended.
  4. Place butterflied lobster tails on the baking sheet. Drizzle each with olive oil, then generously brush the garlic butter mixture over the exposed meat.
  5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until meat is opaque and white and shells are bright red. If using a thermometer, aim for 140°F (60°C). Tent with foil if butter starts to burn.
  6. Optional: Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for a golden finish. Watch closely.
  7. Transfer lobster tails to plates, spoon any leftover garlic butter from the pan over the top, and garnish with lemon wedges and extra parsley if desired.

Notes

For dairy-free, substitute butter with vegan margarine or olive oil spread. Watch lobster closely to avoid overcooking. Broil briefly for a golden finish. Thaw frozen lobster tails overnight or in cold water for 30 minutes. Serve immediately for best texture. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and gently reheated in foil in a low oven.

Nutrition

Keywords: lobster tail, garlic butter, Valentine’s Day, romantic dinner, seafood, easy recipe, oven baked, gluten-free, date night