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Grilled Split Lobster

This grilled split lobster is a sophisticated yet surprisingly simple dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of fresh seafood. By cooking the lobster over a high heat, the shell becomes beautifully charred while the succulent meat remains tender and juicy. It is an impressive choice for a summer barbecue or a special weekend treat, offering a lighter alternative to traditional heavy seafood platters.

As a diabetes-friendly main course, this dish is naturally high in protein and low in carbohydrates. Using a light touch of oil and seasoning ensures the delicate flavour of the lobster shines through without the need for sugary marinades. Serve these grilled halves with a crisp green salad and plenty of lemon wedges for a bright, heart-healthy meal that feels truly indulgent.

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Ingredients for Grilled Split Lobster

  • 2 (675g) live lobsters

  • 2 tablespoons oil

  • Salt

  • Pepper

  • Butter, hot sauce, lemon wedges, for serving

How to make Grilled Split Lobster

Prepare grill for medium-high heat; oil grate. Chill two 675g live lobsters in freezer 15 minutes (this will slow down their nervous system—helpful for what comes next). Working one at a time, transfer to a cutting board, belly side down, with head facing you. Using a kitchen towel, hold tail (it shouldn't be very active now) and, starting where the tail meets the body, bisect body and head lengthwise in one fell swoop. Turn lobster around and cut lengthwise through tail. Remove any tomalley or eggs (reserving, if you'd like).

Immediately rub cut side of lobsters with 2 tablespoons oil total; season with salt and pepper. Grill, cut side down, pressing claws against grill, until meat is nearly cooked through, 6–8 minutes. Turn and grill until shells are lightly charred and meat is cooked through (tail meat will look opaque and be firm), about 3 minutes. Remove lobsters from grill and serve with melted butter, hot sauce, and lemon wedges for squeezing over.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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