Grilled Lobster with Garlic-Herb Butter

For an island-inspired culinary adventure, try your hand at making Grilled Lobster with Garlic-Herb Butter. This recipe captures the essence of island cuisine, combining the fresh, succulent taste of lobster with aromatic herbs and spices that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for a beachside dinner or a special occasion, this dish brings a touch of island elegance to your table.

Ingredients:

• 2 fresh lobsters (about 1.5 pounds each)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges and fresh herbs, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Garlic-Herb Butter: Mix the Butter: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, cilantro, thyme, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Refrigerate: Cover and refrigerate the garlic-herb butter for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. You can also prepare this butter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.

Grill the Lobster:

1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Prepare the Lobsters: Using a sharp knife, split the lobsters in half lengthwise. Remove any innards and rinse under cold water. Crack the claws slightly with a mallet or the back of a knife.
3. Season: Lightly season the lobster meat with salt and pepper.
4. Grill: Place the lobster halves, shell side down, on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the shells start to turn red. Flip the lobsters and dollop a generous amount of the garlic-herb butter onto the flesh side.
5. Finish Grilling: Grill for another 4-5 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and cooked through, and the butter is bubbling and aromatic.

Serve:

1. Garnish: Transfer the grilled lobsters to a serving platter. Garnish with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
2. Enjoy: Serve immediately, offering extra garlic-herb butter on the side for dipping.

The nutritional value of "Grilled Lobster with Garlic-Herb Butter" can vary based on the size of the lobsters and the amount of butter used. However, I can provide an estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving based on the ingredients listed in the recipe. Please note that this is a rough estimation and actual values can differ.

Estimated Nutritional Value per Serving (1 lobster half with butter):

• Calories: 300-400 calories
• Protein: 22-28 g
• Fat: 22-32 g
• Saturated Fat: 14-20 g (primarily from the butter)
• Carbohydrates: 2-4 g
• Sugars: 0-1 g
• Cholesterol: 145-200 mg
• Sodium: 300-500 mg
• Fiber: 0-1 g
• Vitamin D: Lobster is a good source of Vitamin D.
• Calcium: Lobster provides calcium.
• Iron: Lobster contains iron.
• Potassium: Significant amounts depending on the size of the lobster.

This dish is high in protein and provides essential nutrients such as Vitamin D, calcium, and iron. The garlic-herb butter, while adding flavor, also adds saturated fats and calories, so consumption should be moderated based on individual dietary needs. Lobster is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.

This Grilled Lobster with Garlic-Herb Butter is a celebration of island flavors, bringing together the bounty of the sea with the fresh, vibrant tastes of the garden. It's a dish that's sure to impress, whether you're dining under the stars or simply bringing a bit of island magic into your home.

Enjoy!