Grilled Lobster Medallions

Name: Grilled Lobster Medallions
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large lobster tails; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Taste the World Recipes

I absolutely love making grilled lobster medallions, and they never fail to impress anyone at my gatherings. The key to achieving perfectly cooked lobster is to marinate it in a rich garlic butter sauce that brings out the natural sweetness of the meat. Each medallion delivers a succulent bite, perfectly enhanced by the smoky flavor from the grill. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a weekend treat, these medallions are a fantastic way to elevate any meal.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-22T19:06:28.162Z

When I first tried grilling lobster medallions, I was amazed at how a simple technique could elevate such a gourmet dish. The key is to not overcook them, as lobster can turn rubbery if left on the grill too long. I like to use a few minutes of direct heat and then move them to indirect heat to let them finish cooking gently.

The combination of garlic butter and fresh herbs in the marinade is perfect for complementing the sweet, tender lobster. I recommend using a good quality lobster, as the freshness makes all the difference in flavor and texture.

Why You'll Love These Grilled Lobster Medallions
Deliciously tender and juicy meat cooked to perfection
Rich garlic butter marinade enhances the lobster's natural sweetness
Perfect for both casual dinners and elegant occasions

The Art of Grilling Lobster Medallions

Grilling lobster medallions requires careful attention to temperature and timing. After prepping your grill to medium-high heat, ensure it's clean and well-oiled to prevent the delicate meat from sticking. The distinctive smoky flavor achieved from the grill enhances the lobster's natural sweetness, so aim for a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process. Watch for the meat to turn opaque and slightly firm to the touch, which typically takes about 5 to 10 minutes total, depending on the thickness of the medallions.

Another critical aspect of grilling is the shell side down technique. This not only protects the softer meat during cooking but also allows the flavors from the grill to penetrate the lobster. When flipping the medallions, take care to do so gently with a wide spatula to maintain their integrity. If you're concerned about overcooking, using an instant-read thermometer can help; aim for an internal temperature of 140°F for perfectly cooked lobster.

Marinade Magic

The marinade for these grilled lobster medallions is truly the star of the show. The combination of melted butter, garlic, parsley, and lemon juice serves multiple purposes: it tenderizes the meat while infusing it with rich flavor. Butter not only adds fat for moistness but also helps in achieving a delightful golden-brown color when grilled. If you're looking for a twist, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for an added kick—just a pinch will go a long way.

When marinating, it’s essential not to overdo it. The 15-minute soaking time is optimal; this allows the flavors to meld without overwhelming the delicate taste of the lobster. If you're short on time, a quick brush of the marinade right before grilling will still yield delicious results. Remember, the goal is to enhance the lobster without masking its natural sweetness.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to start making your grilled lobster medallions:

Ingredients

2 large lobster tails
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all the ingredients are prepared before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious grilled lobster medallions:

Prepare the Lobster

Begin by cutting the lobster tails in half lengthwise to create medallions. Remove any veins and set aside.

Make the Marinade

In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the Lobster

Brush the marinade generously over the lobster medallions and let them sit for 15 minutes.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Grill the Medallions

Place the lobster medallions on the grill, shell side down, and cook for about 5 minutes. Flip them over for an additional 5 minutes until cooked through.

Once grilled, serve immediately with extra lemon wedges and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, try incorporating a dash of cayenne pepper into the marinade for a subtle heat.

Serving Suggestions

These grilled lobster medallions make for an impressive centerpiece, perfect for special occasions or a romantic dinner at home. Pair them with a light, refreshing salad featuring arugula and citrus for a delightful contrast. Additionally, a side of garlic mashed potatoes or grilled asparagus will complement the lobster's richness beautifully. If you're serving a larger group, consider skewering the medallions for easy handling—this adds a fun twist and encourages a relaxed dining atmosphere.

For a more indulgent experience, drizzle the medallions with extra garlic butter just before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes for a gorgeous presentation, with the rich butter glistening atop the tender lobster. Don’t forget to prepare toothpicks or small forks for guests to enjoy every last bite!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

While fresh lobster is always best, you can prep your medallions a day in advance. After cutting and cleaning, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to grill, simply brush on the marinade and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to come to an even temperature, which ensures more consistent cooking.

If you have leftover medallions, they can be stored in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or a little more butter to ensure the meat remains moist. Avoid microwaving directly, as this can lead to rubbery textures. For freezing, wrap the cooked medallions tightly and consume within three months for the best quality. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen lobster tails?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for the best results.

→ How do I know when the lobster is done cooking?

Lobster is done when it turns opaque and the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).

→ What should I serve with grilled lobster medallions?

They pair wonderfully with side dishes like grilled vegetables, rice pilaf, or a refreshing salad.

→ Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.