How to Grill the Perfect Traeger Lobster Tail

Grilling lobster tails is an excellent way to bring the fresh flavors of the sea to your backyard. With this unique recipe, you'll create a buttery, smoky, and spicy dish that is perfect for any special occasion or a weeknight treat. Here’s a detailed guide to making the perfect grilled lobster tail, along with a few creative twists to make it your own.

Ingredients:

• 2 (8-10 oz) lobster tails
• 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Optional: Pecan BBQ Wood Pellets for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Prep the Lobster Tails:

   • Using kitchen shears, cut a slit lengthwise down the top of each lobster shell towards the tail. Gently pry the meat from the shell, keeping it attached at the base of the tail. Lift the meat so it rests atop the split shell. Use a paring knife to cut a slit down the middle of the lobster meat to butterfly it open.

2. Make the Butter Mixture:

   • In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Whisk in lemon juice, paprika, garlic salt, Old Bay seasoning, black pepper, and parsley. Pour about 1 tablespoon of the butter mixture over each lobster tail, keeping the remaining butter mixture warm.

3. Grill the Lobster Tails:

   • Preheat your grill to 500°F (260°C) with the lid closed for 15 minutes. Place the lobster tails directly on the grill grates, meat side up. Close the lid and cook until the meat is white and opaque, about 25-30 minutes.

4. Serve:

   • Transfer the lobster tails to a platter and serve with the remaining butter mixture.

Unique Twists:

1. Spicy Mango Salsa:

   • Add a tropical flair by serving the grilled lobster tails with a spicy mango salsa. Combine diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. The sweetness of the mango complements the smoky flavor of the lobster perfectly.

2. Garlic Herb Compound Butter:

   • For an extra layer of flavor, prepare a garlic herb compound butter to serve alongside the lobster tails. Mix softened butter with minced garlic, fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and dill), lemon zest, and a touch of sea salt. Chill the butter, then dollop it on the hot lobster tails right before serving.

3. Cajun Style:

   • Infuse a Cajun twist by adding a blend of Cajun spices to the butter mixture. Use cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano. This will give your lobster tails a deliciously spicy kick.

Tips for Perfect Grilling:

• Choosing the Right Lobster: Fresh, high-quality lobster tails will yield the best results. Look for tails with a firm texture and a sweet smell.
• Grill Temperature: Maintaining a consistent grill temperature is crucial. Too hot, and you risk burning the lobster; too cool, and it may not cook evenly.
• Resting the Meat: Allow the lobster tails to rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is succulent.

Enjoy your grilled lobster tails with a side of your favorite summer salad, grilled vegetables, or a light pasta dish for a complete and satisfying meal.