Steamed Lobster Tails

This Steamed Lobster Tail recipe is ready in under 15 minutes. This is an easy dish that results in tender and juicy meat that practically melts in your mouth. The steaming process is foolproof and works every time. It ensures that the natural flavors of the lobster are preserved and never overcooked.

5 from 4 votes

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 6

Course dinner, lunch

Cuisine American

Servings lobster tails

Calories 182 kcal

Equipment

Steamer Basket

Ingredients

2 lobster tails 6-8 ounces each is standard size.
Old Bay Seasoning Feel free to use your favorite seafood seasoning.
salt and pepper

Instructions

Fill a large pot with 1-2 inches of water. Bring the water to a boil. Use enough water to fill the pot without the steamer basket touching the water.
While the water is coming to a boil, prepare the lobster tails. Use kitchen shears to carefully cut through the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise, starting from the open end and stopping just before the tail fin.
Gently spread open the shell to expose the lobster meat. See notes above for detailed steps on how to butterfly the tail if preferred. Sprinkle Old Bay, salt, and pepper over the lobster meat.
Once the water is boiling, place a steamer basket or metal colander into the pot. Ensure that the bottom of the basket or colander does not touch the boiling water.
Arrange the prepared lobster tails in the steamer basket or colander, shell side down.
Cover the pot with a lid and let the lobster tails steam for about 6 to 8 minutes, depending on the size of the tails. The meat should be opaque and firm to the touch when cooked through. The shells will also turn a vibrant red color.
Carefully remove the steamer basket or colander from the pot, using oven mitts or tongs to protect your hands from the hot steam. Transfer the steamed lobster tails to a serving platter.
Drizzle in butter if preferred.

Notes

Feel free to double the recipe and ingredients. Cook the amount that you need.
Cook time will vary depending on the size of the lobster you use. You will need to watch it and check on it as it cooks, to avoid overcooking it. If you overcook the lobster it will be rubbery and tough.
If you’ve never butterflied lobster, it may take some practice. You may not get it right the first or second time.

Nutrition

Serving: 1lobster tailCalories: 182kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 32gFat: 3g

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