1. Prepare the Lobster Tails
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Lobster Tails:
- Cut the Shell: Using kitchen shears, carefully cut down the center of the lobster tail shell, from the base to the tip, avoiding cutting into the meat.
- Remove the Meat: Gently pull the lobster meat away from the shell, keeping it attached at the base, and lay it on top of the shell. This helps the meat cook evenly and allows the seasonings to flavor it.
- Season the Lobster: Brush the lobster meat with olive oil and season with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter
- Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Mix well.
3. Cook the Lobster Tails
- Arrange in Air Fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the lobster tails in the basket, meat side up. Ensure they are not overcrowded to allow even cooking.
- Air Fry: Cook at 370°F (190°C) for 6-8 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size of the lobster tails and the air fryer model.
4. Apply the Garlic Butter
- Brush the Butter: During the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush the lobster meat with the garlic butter mixture. This will infuse the lobster with rich, garlicky flavor and create a delicious finish.
5. Serve
- Garnish: Remove the lobster tails from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving plate. Garnish with lemon wedges and additional fresh parsley if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy the lobster tails with a side of your choice or on their own.
Tips for Success
- Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the lobster tails to avoid overcooking, which can make the meat tough.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For accuracy, use a meat thermometer to ensure the lobster reaches the correct internal temperature.
- Butter Substitute: If you prefer, you can use garlic olive oil instead of melted butter for a lighter option.
Variations
Customize your Air Fryer Lobster Tail with these variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a bit of heat.
- Cheesy Lobster: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the lobster meat during the last minute of cooking for a cheesy twist.
- Herb Variation: Experiment with other fresh herbs like dill or thyme in the garlic butter.
Conclusion
You’ve just made a delectable batch of Air Fryer Lobster Tails that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a luxurious weeknight meal. The air fryer makes it easy to achieve restaurant-quality results at home with minimal effort.
So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor the rich, buttery, and succulent lobster tails. Bon appétit!