Introduction: Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops is a luxurious, flavorful seafood dish that combines succulent lobster tails and tender scallops, all coated in a rich and fragrant garlic butter sauce. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner, offering the delicate sweetness of lobster and the mild, buttery taste of scallops, enhanced by the richness of the garlic butter. It’s an indulgent, yet simple recipe that is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
2 lobster tails, split lengthwise
12 oz large scallops, patted dry
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Prepare the Lobster and Scallops:
Using kitchen shears, cut the lobster tails lengthwise and remove any shell fragments. Gently pull apart the lobster meat, leaving it attached at the base of the tail.
Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to ensure they sear properly.
Cook the Lobster:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the lobster tails, flesh-side down, and cook for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and just cooked through. Flip the lobster tails and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove the lobster from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Scallops:
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the scallops in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook. Remove the scallops and set them aside with the lobster.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for another 1-2 minutes.
Combine and Serve:
Return the lobster tails and scallops to the skillet, spooning the garlic butter sauce over the seafood. Cook for another minute, allowing everything to soak in the flavors.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Description:
Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops is a decadent seafood dish where the natural sweetness of lobster and the delicate texture of scallops are enhanced by a rich and aromatic garlic butter sauce. The addition of fresh lemon juice and zest gives a bright contrast to the richness, while the parsley adds a fresh touch. This dish feels elegant and indulgent, yet it’s quick and easy to prepare for any seafood lover.
Tips:
Freshness is Key: For the best flavor, use fresh lobster tails and scallops. If using frozen, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry.
Do Not Overcook: Both lobster and scallops cook quickly, so avoid overcooking them. Scallops should be golden on the outside but opaque in the center. Lobster should be tender and slightly firm when cooked.
Customize the Garlic Butter: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce.
Variations:
Garlic Butter Lobster and Shrimp: Swap out the scallops for shrimp for a different seafood flavor while keeping the same delicious garlic butter sauce.
Add Vegetables: You can add some sautéed spinach, asparagus, or even cherry tomatoes to the pan for extra flavor and color.
Herb-Infused Butter: For a twist, add some fresh thyme or rosemary to the butter as it melts for added fragrance.
Corrections:
If your seafood is overcooked, it can become tough. Keep an eye on the lobster and scallops while cooking, and remove them from the heat as soon as they are cooked through.
Ensure the butter doesn’t burn by cooking the garlic on low-medium heat and stirring it often.
Enjoy:
Sit back, relax, and enjoy your Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops—an elegant, flavorful dish that feels like a luxury but is simple enough to prepare at home. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad, and you’ve got a memorable meal ready to impress!