BAKED LOBSTER TAILS WITH GARLIC HERB BUTTER SAUCE AND MASHED POTATOES

INGREDIENTS:

For the Lobster Tails:

4 lobster tails, thawed if frozen
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potatoes:

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup milk or cream
4 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper to taste
2 garlic cloves, minced (optional for extra flavor)
Fresh chives (optional for garnish)

DIRECTIONS:

Prepare the Lobster Tails:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Use kitchen shears to carefully cut down the top of the lobster tails, exposing the meat. Gently pull the meat up and out, leaving the shell intact.
Place the lobster tails on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Make the Garlic Herb Butter Sauce:

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
Bake the Lobster Tails:

Spoon the garlic herb butter sauce generously over the exposed lobster meat.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and cooked through.
Make the Mashed Potatoes:

While the lobster is baking, place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher.
Stir in the butter, milk (or cream), garlic (if using), salt, and pepper. Continue mashing until smooth and creamy.
Serve:

Plate the lobster tails and serve alongside the creamy mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh chives if desired.
Enjoy your delicious meal of baked lobster tails with garlic herb butter sauce and mashed potatoes!