Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops
235
18
1.30k
Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops is a recipe that delivers pure culinary indulgence. With the luxurious pairing of succulent lobster tails and sweet sea scallops, this dish elevates any dining experience. I remember the first time I prepared this meal for a special occasion; the aroma of garlic and butter filled my kitchen, making my family’s mouths water even before we sat down to eat. Perfect for date nights, holiday gatherings, or simply a treat for yourself, it brings the taste of fine dining right to your home.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, buttery lobster while savoring the sweet, delicate taste of perfectly seared scallops. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Preparing this delightful seafood dish at home allows you to savor restaurant-quality flavors without the hefty price tag.
Weeknight dinner? Check. Fancy celebration? Absolutely! This dish shines on any special occasion. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients, it’s surprisingly simple to put together, allowing you more time to focus on enjoying your evening.
"This was hands down the best seafood dish I’ve ever made at home! The garlic butter sauce was rich and perfect – so easy to follow. A total crowd-pleaser!" – Sarah, home cook
Preparing Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops
Crafting this dish is a straightforward process that can be broken down into a few key steps. You’ll be melting butter, searing seafood, and finishing with a flourish. Here’s what to expect as you bring this gourmet delight to your table.
First, you’ll whip up the luscious garlic butter sauce that brings this dish to life. Cook the lobster tails to tender perfection and then sear the scallops for that beautiful golden crust. The combination of these flavors will have everyone asking for seconds.
What You’ll Need
Gather these key ingredients for your Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops:
- 2 pieces lobster tails: Nothing beats fresh lobster for luxury, and it truly elevates the dish.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: This is the heart of the garlic butter sauce—rich and oh-so-flavorful.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds incredible aroma and flavor.
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Just a little tang to brighten everything up perfectly.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds a hint of smokiness and color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Staples that bring out the flavors.
- For garnish: Fresh parsley — because we eat with our eyes first.
- For serving: Lemon wedges — a squeeze of fresh lemon just before eating is heavenly.
- 1/2 lb sea scallops, patted dry: Succulent and sweet, scallops are delightful when cooked right.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: More butter never hurts, especially for the scallops.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps to sear the scallops perfectly without sticking.
Substitutions
Feel free to swap lobster for shrimp or other seafood if you prefer!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s dive into the cooking process:
Prepare the garlic butter: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Cook the lobster: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the lobster tails in a baking dish, brush generously with garlic butter, and bake for about 15-20 minutes until opaque and tender.
Sear the scallops: In a skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add the scallops and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Finalize the dish: Once everything is cooked, drizzle additional garlic butter over the lobster and scallops. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
When it comes to serving Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops, presentation is key. Arrange the lobster tails and scallops on a platter, drizzling the remaining garlic butter sauce over the top. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color.
Pair this dish with a light, refreshing salad or a side of garlic mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious butter. A crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay, complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (though that’s rare with such a crowd-pleaser), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place the seafood in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Safety Note
Ensure that any seafood is cooked properly and stored at safe temperatures to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Patience is key: For perfectly seared scallops, make sure they are patted dry — excess moisture can prevent that golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give scallops enough space in the skillet to achieve that beautiful sear.
- Taste as you go: Adjust the seasoning in your garlic butter sauce to your preferences; everyone’s palate is different.
Creative Twists
Feel free to personalize this dish! Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for some heat, or toss in some fresh herbs like thyme or dill for a different flavor profile. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping the paprika for a bit of curry powder for an exotic twist.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
Expect about 30 minutes for preparation and cooking, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Can I use frozen seafood instead of fresh?
Yes, but ensure to thaw it completely before cooking for best results.
What should I serve with Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops?
Light salads, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread all make excellent pairings.
With a rich and buttery flavor profile, Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops is sure to impress at any gathering. Embark on this culinary journey and enjoy a taste of luxury right from your kitchen!
Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops
Ingredients
Method
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper to prepare the garlic butter.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the lobster tails in a baking dish, brush generously with garlic butter, and bake for about 15-20 minutes until opaque and tender.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add the scallops and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Once everything is cooked, drizzle additional garlic butter over the lobster and scallops. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
