Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops—now that sounds like a luxurious and delicious dish! This is a perfect combination of sweet, tender seafood with the rich, savory flavors of garlic butter. It’s surprisingly easy to prepare, but sure to impress anyone you serve it to. Here’s a simple recipe for Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops that you can try:
Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops Recipe
Ingredients:
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For the Seafood:
- 2 lobster tails (fresh or thawed if frozen)
- 10-12 large scallops (peeled and deveined)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
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For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and a mild kick)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or oregano (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Lobster Tails:
- If your lobster tails are still in the shell, use kitchen scissors to cut down the top of the shell, exposing the lobster meat. Be careful not to cut the meat. Gently pull apart the shell and lift the lobster meat up, keeping it attached at the base.
- You can also cut the lobster tail in half lengthwise for a more elegant presentation.
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Prepare the Scallops:
- Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to ensure they sear properly.
- Season the scallops with a little salt and pepper on both sides.
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Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and golden brown, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Stir in the lemon juice, paprika, red pepper flakes, and any herbs you’re using (like thyme or oregano). Let the sauce simmer on low for 1-2 minutes, then set aside.
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Cook the Lobster:
- Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Place the lobster tails in the pan, flesh side down, and cook for about 4-5 minutes, until the flesh is lightly browned.
- Flip the lobster tails and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until they are opaque and cooked through.
- Optional: You can baste the lobster with some of the garlic butter sauce while cooking for added flavor.
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Cook the Scallops:
- In the same skillet, add the seasoned scallops. Sear the scallops on each side for 2-3 minutes, until a nice golden crust forms and the scallops are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook, as scallops can become rubbery if left too long.
- While cooking the scallops, spoon some of the garlic butter sauce over them for added flavor.
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Combine and Serve:
- Once the lobster tails and scallops are cooked, place them on a serving plate.
- Drizzle the garlic butter sauce over both the lobster and scallops.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this dish with pasta or rice for a fuller meal.
- You could also pair it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a lighter option.
- For a rich, indulgent side, some garlic bread or roasted potatoes would complement the flavors beautifully.
Tips for Success:
- Don’t Overcook: Seafood cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it! Lobster meat should be opaque and slightly firm, while scallops should have a golden crust and feel slightly firm to the touch.
- Herbs and Lemon: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil can enhance the flavor of the dish, and fresh lemon juice adds a wonderful brightness that balances the richness of the butter.
- Butter Quality: Use high-quality butter for the garlic butter sauce. If you want a deeper flavor, you can add a bit of white wine or broth to the sauce before simmering.
This Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops dish is sure to impress with its rich flavor and gorgeous presentation. It’s perfect for special occasions, date nights, or whenever you’re craving something indulgent. Would you be trying this out for a special meal, or just a seafood craving?