Grilled Lobster and Shrimp: A Summer Seafood Feast
When you’re craving something luxurious yet surprisingly easy to prepare, Grilled Lobster and Shrimp is the perfect choice. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to elevate your weekend grilling, this recipe offers tender, buttery lobster tails and juicy shrimp, all kissed by the smoky flavor of the grill. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a seafood feast that looks impressive and tastes even better.
This recipe is ideal for seafood lovers, backyard BBQ enthusiasts, and anyone looking to add a restaurant-quality dish to their home menu. Grilled Lobster and Shrimp is great for dinner parties, date nights, or anytime you want a lighter meal that’s still packed with bold, rich flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Lobster and Shrimp Recipe
- Fast and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes.
- Elegant Yet Approachable: Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor.
- Perfect for Entertaining: Looks impressive, tastes luxurious.
- Flexible: Works beautifully with other seafood, too.
Ingredients for Grilled Lobster and Shrimp
To create this masterpiece, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 lobster tails
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges for serving
Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to enhance the natural sweetness of the lobster and shrimp without overpowering them. The garlic butter marinade is a timeless classic, and the bright pop of lemon brings everything together.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Make sure you have these essentials before you start:
- Grill (charcoal or gas)
- Grill tongs
- Basting brush
- Small mixing bowl
- Kitchen shears
- Paper towels
- Serving platter
- Meat thermometer (optional but helpful)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Lobster Tails and Shrimp
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Using kitchen shears, carefully cut through the top shell of each lobster tail, stopping at the base. Gently pull the shell apart and lift the lobster meat, laying it neatly on top of the shell — this presentation makes for a stunning final dish.
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Dry shrimp will sear better and develop a beautiful, slightly crispy exterior.
2. Make the Garlic Butter Marinade
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, parsley, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until everything is well incorporated. This marinade will infuse the seafood with incredible flavor while keeping it juicy during grilling.
3. Marinate and Grill
Brush the lobster tails and shrimp generously with the garlic butter marinade.
Place the lobster tails on the grill, meat side up. Grill for 10–12 minutes, basting occasionally with more garlic butter. You’ll know the lobster is done when the meat turns opaque and firms up.
Add the shrimp during the last 5 minutes of grilling. Cook the shrimp 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and slightly charred.
4. Serve
Transfer the grilled lobster tails and shrimp to a serving platter.
Drizzle with any remaining garlic butter marinade, sprinkle with additional parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Don’t Overcook: Seafood cooks quickly! Overcooked lobster and shrimp become rubbery, so watch them closely.
- Use a Thermometer: Lobster is perfectly cooked when the internal temperature hits 140°F.
- Double the Marinade: If you want extra sauce for dipping, simply double the garlic butter recipe.
- Charcoal vs Gas Grill: Charcoal adds a wonderful smoky flavor, but a gas grill works great for precise temperature control.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
- Seafood Mix: Swap in scallops, crab legs, or even chunks of firm white fish like swordfish.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a bit of heat.
- Herb Lovers: Try fresh basil, cilantro, or thyme instead of parsley.
- Butter Substitute: For a dairy-free option, replace butter with vegan butter or more olive oil.
How to Store Leftovers
If you somehow have leftovers (lucky you!), here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Storage: Place leftover lobster and shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Shelf Life: Best enjoyed within 1–2 days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat seafood in a covered skillet with a little extra butter or olive oil over low heat to avoid drying it out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the seafood rubbery.
Perfect Food and Drink Pairings
Side Dishes:
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Garlic butter asparagus
- Fresh garden salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted baby potatoes
Wine Pairings:
- Chardonnay: A buttery, oaky Chardonnay complements the rich lobster.
- Sauvignon Blanc: Crisp and citrusy, it cuts through the richness beautifully.
- Rosé: Light and refreshing, perfect for summer evenings.
Other Drinks:
- Sparkling water with lemon
- A classic gin and tonic
- Light craft beer, like a pilsner or Kölsch
FAQs About Grilled Lobster and Shrimp
Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes, but make sure it is fully thawed and patted dry before marinating and grilling. Excess moisture can cause steaming rather than searing.
What if I don’t have a grill?
You can broil the lobster tails and shrimp in the oven. Place them on a baking sheet and broil about 6 inches from the heat source, watching carefully.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the lobster tails, shrimp, and marinade several hours ahead and store them separately in the refrigerator. Grill just before serving for the best taste and texture.
How do I know when the seafood is cooked?
Lobster meat will turn from translucent to opaque and will be firm to the touch. Shrimp turn pink and curl into a C-shape when perfectly cooked.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about the combination of seafood and summer grilling. This Grilled Lobster and Shrimp recipe delivers elegance without effort — a true showstopper that’s as simple as it is sensational.
