Here’s a mouthwatering Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops recipe that’s quick to make and packed with flavor! It’s a perfect dish for a special occasion or a weeknight treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 lobster tails (about 6 oz each)
- 1 lb scallops (fresh or thawed)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (plus lemon wedges for serving)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)
Directions:
1. Prepare the Lobster Tails:
- Using kitchen shears, cut down the top of the lobster tail shell lengthwise to expose the meat. Gently pull the lobster meat out and rest it on top of the shell, keeping it attached at the base.
- Using a sharp knife, make a small slit in the lobster meat to help it cook evenly.
- Season the lobster tails with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a little smoked paprika (if using).
2. Sear the Scallops:
- Pat the scallops dry with paper towels (this helps them sear better).
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add the scallops and sear for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook them in batches if necessary. Remove the scallops from the pan and set aside.
3. Cook the Lobster Tails:
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and heat over medium heat.
- Add the lobster tails, meat side down, and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the meat turns opaque and slightly golden. Flip them and cook for another 2-3 minutes, spooning some of the melted butter from the pan over the lobster meat to keep it moist. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).
- Stir in the lemon juice, a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for another minute to combine all the flavors.
5. Combine and Serve:
- Return the seared scallops to the pan and toss them in the garlic butter sauce.
- Place the lobster tails back into the pan as well, spooning the garlic butter sauce over the lobster meat.
- Let everything cook together for 2-3 minutes to ensure the flavors meld.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
- Serve the lobster and scallops with your favorite side dish like garlic mashed potatoes, rice, or a crisp green salad.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, you can drizzle some additional melted butter over the lobster and scallops when serving.
- If you prefer, you can also broil the lobster tails instead of pan-cooking them. Brush the meat with butter and broil for 5-7 minutes, watching carefully.
- Be mindful of the scallops and lobster tails to avoid overcooking. Scallops cook quickly, and lobster meat can become tough if overdone.
This Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops dish is a rich, indulgent seafood delight that pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine or a light cocktail. Enjoy!