Grilling is a fantastic way to bring out the natural flavors of seafood, and when it comes to lobster and shrimp, nothing beats the smoky, charred flavors you can achieve on a grill. This grilled lobster and shrimp recipe is a showstopper, perfect for impressing guests at a summer BBQ, a special occasion, or a romantic dinner for two. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the fresh taste of the lobster and shrimp to shine while the garlic butter mixture adds a deliciously savory richness.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about grilling lobster and shrimp, including step-by-step directions, ingredient quantities, and some useful FAQs to help you achieve the perfect results. Let’s get started with this delightful seafood recipe that will elevate your next meal to gourmet levels!
Ingredients with Quantities
Before diving into the grilling process, it’s essential to gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, with each ingredient contributing to the overall flavor profile without overwhelming the natural taste of the seafood.
Ingredients:
- 2 lobster tails, split in half lengthwise
- Lobster is the star of the dish. Splitting the tails in half helps them cook evenly on the grill.
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Opt for large shrimp as they are more meaty and flavorful when grilled.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- Butter adds richness to the dish. The melted butter will be infused with garlic and spices to coat the seafood.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Garlic adds a savory and aromatic element to the butter mixture.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Lemon juice brightens the dish with its acidity, balancing out the richness of the butter and seafood.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a touch of herbaceousness.
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor and enhances the dish’s visual appeal with a hint of color.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Seasoning the lobster and shrimp properly is key to enhancing their natural flavors.
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Serve the lobster and shrimp with lemon wedges for an extra burst of brightness.
Directions and Preparation Method
Now that we have all the ingredients, let’s move on to the fun part: grilling! Follow these step-by-step directions to create a perfectly grilled lobster and shrimp dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
The first step in grilling any seafood is to ensure that your grill is properly preheated. For this recipe, you’ll want to set your grill to medium-high heat. Preheating allows the grill to reach the correct temperature, which ensures that your seafood cooks evenly and achieves those beautiful grill marks.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture
While the grill is heating up, it’s time to prepare the garlic butter mixture that will coat the lobster and shrimp. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined. This mixture will add a rich, garlicky flavor to the seafood.
Step 3: Coat the Lobster and Shrimp
Take your lobster tails and shrimp and generously brush them with the garlic butter mixture. Make sure to coat both sides thoroughly, paying extra attention to the flesh side of the lobster. The butter mixture will not only add flavor but also prevent the seafood from drying out on the grill.
Step 4: Grill the Lobster
Place the lobster tails on the grill, flesh side down. This allows the meat to cook directly over the heat, giving it a slight char and sealing in the moisture. Grill the lobster tails for 5-6 minutes, or until the shells turn bright red and the flesh becomes opaque. Flip the lobster tails halfway through grilling to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Grill the Shrimp
Shrimp cook much faster than lobster, so keep a close eye on them. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side. You’ll know the shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, and the edges are slightly charred. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery if left on the grill too long.
Step 6: Drizzle with Remaining Garlic Butter
Once the lobster and shrimp are off the grill, drizzle them with any remaining garlic butter mixture for an extra burst of flavor. This step enhances the overall richness of the dish and ensures that every bite is packed with garlicky goodness.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
For a finishing touch, garnish the lobster and shrimp with chopped parsley (optional) and serve with lemon wedges on the side. The lemon juice can be squeezed over the seafood just before eating, adding a bright and zesty contrast to the rich butter sauce.
FAQs
1. Can I Use Frozen Lobster and Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen lobster tails and shrimp for this recipe, but it’s essential to thaw them properly before grilling. To thaw, place the seafood in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging them in cold water until thawed. Never thaw seafood at room temperature, as this can lead to bacteria growth.
2. How Can I Tell When the Lobster is Fully Cooked?
Lobster is fully cooked when the flesh is opaque and white, and the shells turn bright red. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Overcooking lobster can make it tough, so be sure to monitor it closely while on the grill.
3. What’s the Best Way to Grill Without Overcooking Shrimp?
Shrimp cooks very quickly on the grill, so it’s essential to stay near the grill and watch for visual cues. The shrimp will turn pink and opaque when cooked. If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer to check that the shrimp has reached an internal temperature of 120°F (49°C). Overcooked shrimp becomes rubbery, so removing them from the grill promptly is key.
4. Can I Add Other Seasonings to the Garlic Butter Mixture?
Absolutely! While the garlic butter mixture in this recipe is simple, you can customize it to your taste by adding other seasonings such as cayenne pepper for heat, thyme or rosemary for herbal notes, or even a dash of white wine for added complexity.
5. Can I Use a Grill Pan Instead of a Grill?
If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, a grill pan is an excellent alternative for cooking lobster and shrimp. Preheat the pan over medium-high heat and follow the same cooking instructions as you would for an outdoor grill. You may need to cook the seafood in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
6. What Side Dishes Pair Well with Grilled Lobster and Shrimp?
Grilled lobster and shrimp pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Some excellent options include:
- Grilled vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers
- Corn on the cob brushed with herb butter
- Garlic bread or crusty French bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce
- A light salad with fresh greens and a citrus vinaigrette
7. Can I Make This Recipe with Different Types of Seafood?
Yes, you can easily substitute other types of seafood in this recipe. Some great alternatives include scallops, crab legs, or even salmon fillets. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the type of seafood you choose.
Conclusion
Grilled lobster and shrimp is a perfect dish for special occasions or whenever you’re in the mood for a luxurious meal. The combination of smoky, charred seafood with the richness of garlic butter is an irresistible pairing that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
With simple, high-quality ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe makes grilling seafood easy and enjoyable. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard BBQ or a cozy dinner for two, this grilled lobster and shrimp dish will make any meal feel like a gourmet experience.