Fill a large pot with 2 to 3 inches of water
Add salt to the water
Place a steaming rack or basket in the pot
Bring the water to a boil
Rinse the lobster under cold water
Place the lobster on the rack or basket
Cover the pot tightly
Steam the lobster for 8 to 12 minutes for a 1 to 1.5 pound lobster
Add 2 to 3 minutes for each additional pound
Cook until the shell is bright red and the meat is opaque
Remove the lobster with tongs
Let it rest for a few minutes
Crack the shell and serve with melted butter if desired
