If you’re craving an elegant, mouthwatering seafood dish that’s simple to make but full of flavor, Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops is the perfect choice. This dish combines the sweet, delicate flavors of lobster and the rich, buttery taste of seared scallops, all drenched in a luscious garlic butter sauce. It’s the ultimate seafood indulgence for special occasions or a luxurious dinner at home. Whether you serve it with a side of pasta, crusty bread, or fresh vegetables, it’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 lobster tails, split down the middle
- 8 large sea scallops, patted dry
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 tbsp butter, divided
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Seafood
- Season the Lobster and Scallops: Lightly season the lobster tails and scallops with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
Step 2: Sear the Scallops
- Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
- Sear the Scallops: Once the oil and butter have melted and are sizzling, add the scallops. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until the scallops are golden and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them.
- Set the Scallops Aside: Once done, remove the scallops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Step 3: Cook the Lobster Tails
- Cook Lobster Shell-Side Down: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter. Place the lobster tails shell-side down in the skillet, and cook for 5-6 minutes. Flip the lobster tails halfway through to ensure even cooking. The lobster meat should turn opaque and firm to the touch when done.
- Ensure Even Cooking: If you prefer, you can cover the skillet with a lid while cooking to keep the lobster moist.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Reduce Heat and Add Garlic: Once the lobster tails are cooked, reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Let the butter melt before adding the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, making sure it doesn’t burn.
- Add Lemon Juice: Stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, which will give the garlic butter a tangy kick to complement the seafood.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Return the Scallops to the Skillet: Add the seared scallops back to the skillet. Spoon the garlic butter sauce over both the lobster and scallops, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Heat Through: Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the scallops to warm up and soak in the flavors of the garlic butter sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the seafood for a pop of color and added flavor.
- Serve: Arrange the lobster tails and scallops on a platter and serve with lemon wedges on the side for extra zest.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this dish with crispy bread or a fresh salad to complement the richness of the garlic butter sauce.
- Pair it with a light white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, to enhance the seafood’s flavors.
- For a more substantial meal, serve the lobster and scallops over a bed of pasta, such as fettuccine, or with a side of roasted vegetables.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Scallops: Scallops cook very quickly, so be sure to sear them just until they are golden on the outside and opaque inside. Overcooking them will make them rubbery.
- Use Fresh Lobster: If possible, use fresh lobster tails for the best flavor. However, frozen lobster tails will also work well if thawed properly.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of spice in your garlic butter sauce.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 30g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 1g
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops is a restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. With tender lobster tails, perfectly seared scallops, and a rich garlic butter sauce, this dish is packed with flavor and makes for an unforgettable meal. Whether for a special occasion or a weeknight treat, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this indulgent seafood delight with your loved ones and savor every bite!