Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops: A Luxurious Seafood Delight
If you’re looking for a dish that combines elegance with mouthwatering flavor, look no further than Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops. This luxurious seafood recipe features tender lobster tails and succulent scallops, both delicately cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce. The result is an indulgent meal that’s sure to impress, whether you’re preparing a special dinner for loved ones or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary. What makes this dish irresistible? It’s all about the perfect balance of rich garlic butter, fresh seafood, and zesty lemon — a combination that will elevate your taste buds with every bite.
Why This Dish Is Loved
This dish is a favorite for many reasons. The lobster tails are tender and sweet, providing a buttery richness that pairs perfectly with the scallops, which are naturally sweet and have a delicate texture. The garlic butter sauce adds layers of savory depth, and the lemon juice brightens everything up with a refreshing citrusy kick. It’s the ultimate comfort food for seafood lovers, yet fancy enough to serve at dinner parties or celebrations.
Pro Tip: To truly enhance the flavor, finish this dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and a wedge of lemon. It not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor with a fresh, herbal note.
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Ingredients:
2 Lobster Tails, halved lengthwise
Lobster tails are the star of this dish. When halved, they cook evenly, becoming tender and soaking up the garlic butter sauce beautifully. The sweet, slightly briny flavor of lobster is complemented perfectly by the richness of the butter.
1 lb Sea Scallops, patted dry
Scallops are a delightful addition to this dish, offering a slightly sweet and delicate flavor. Make sure to pat them dry before cooking to ensure they sear properly, creating a beautiful golden crust that adds texture to the dish.
6 tbsp Unsalted Butter, divided
Unsalted butter is key in creating a smooth, rich garlic butter sauce. Dividing the butter into two parts allows for one to be used in the cooking process and the other to be added at the end to finish the sauce.
3 tbsp Olive Oil
Olive oil is used to sear the seafood before adding the butter. It provides a nice base for cooking without overpowering the delicate flavors of the seafood.
4 Garlic Cloves, minced
Garlic is the foundation of the sauce. It adds a fragrant, savory depth and infuses the butter with bold flavor. Freshly minced garlic is the best option for an aromatic punch.
1 Lemon, juiced
The lemon juice provides a bright, tangy contrast to the rich butter sauce. It adds a refreshing acidity that helps balance the sweetness of the lobster and scallops.
2 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped
Parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal flavor that cuts through the richness of the butter. It’s the perfect garnish to complete this dish.
Salt and Pepper, to taste
Seasoning is crucial for bringing out the best in this dish. Salt and pepper help balance the flavors of the lobster and scallops, making them even more delicious.
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Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Lobster and Scallops:
Start by halving the lobster tails lengthwise. Use kitchen shears or a sharp knife to cut through the shell and expose the flesh. Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel to ensure a good sear later on.
2. Cook the Lobster:
Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and starts to foam, add the lobster tails, flesh side down. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the flesh turns opaque and slightly golden. Flip the lobster tails and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sear the Scallops:
In the same skillet, add the scallops. Sear them for 2 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan to get a nice sear. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside with the lobster.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 4 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley. Allow the sauce to simmer for another minute.
5. Combine and Toss:
Return the lobster and scallops to the skillet. Gently toss them in the garlic butter sauce to coat. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to marry together.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the lobster and scallops to serving plates. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges on the side for a fresh pop of flavor.
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Pro Tips for Perfecting Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops:
Dry the Scallops: For a perfect sear, pat the scallops dry with paper towels before cooking. Moisture can prevent them from caramelizing properly and can lead to a steamed texture.
Watch the Lobster: Lobster cooks quickly. Overcooking it can result in a tough texture. Keep a close eye on the tails, and remove them from the heat as soon as they’re opaque.
Boost the Flavor: For an extra layer of richness, try adding a splash of white wine to the garlic butter sauce after the garlic is sautéed. It will add depth and complexity to the dish.
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Serving Suggestions:
This Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or buttery roasted asparagus. For a lighter option, serve with a crisp arugula salad dressed in olive oil and lemon. The richness of the garlic butter sauce pairs well with a glass of Chardonnay or any crisp white wine.
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Conclusion:
This Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops dish is the ultimate seafood indulgence that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether it’s a date night, a holiday celebration, or just a weeknight craving for something decadent, this recipe delivers sophistication without the hassle. With its tender lobster, juicy scallops, and irresistible garlic butter sauce, this dish will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection. Quick, easy, and absolutely delicious, it’s the perfect meal to impress without all the effort. Don’t wait — treat yourself to this indulgent seafood experience tonight!