Indulge in the luxurious flavors of garlic butter lobster and scallops, a dish that exudes elegance while remaining simple to prepare. The rich, buttery sauce infused with garlic enhances the delicate sweetness of lobster and scallops, creating a mouthwatering seafood experience. Perfect for special occasions or romantic dinners, this dish pairs beautifully with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Ingredients:
Seafood:
- 2 lobster tails, split lengthwise
- 8 large sea scallops, patted dry
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- ½ cup dry white wine (optional, enhances depth of flavor)
- ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional, for extra seafood flavor)
Instructions:
Prepare the Seafood:
- Pat scallops dry: This is crucial for achieving a perfect sear. Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from the scallops.
- Season: Lightly sprinkle salt and black pepper over the lobster tails and scallops.
Cooking the Lobster:
- Heat olive oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil.
- Cook the lobster tails: Place them shell-side down in the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, then flip and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the meat turns opaque and tender. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Searing the Scallops:
- Increase heat to medium-high: Add a little more oil if needed.
- Sear scallops: Place them in the pan without moving for 2 minutes until a golden crust forms. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until translucent in the center. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Making the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- Melt butter: Reduce heat to medium and add the butter to the same pan. Let it melt and slightly brown for a nutty aroma.
- Sauté garlic: Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add wine (if using): Pour the white wine into the pan, letting it simmer for 2-3 minutes to cook off the alcohol and intensify the sauce.
- Finish with lemon & herbs: Stir in lemon juice, crushed red pepper flakes, parsley, and Old Bay seasoning.
Final Assembly:
- Return seafood to the pan: Place the cooked lobster tails and scallops back into the skillet, spooning garlic butter sauce over the top. Let them absorb the flavors for 1-2 minutes.
- Serve immediately: Plate the lobster and scallops, drizzling extra garlic butter sauce over them for a decadent finish.
Best Serving Suggestions:
- Over creamy mashed potatoes or pasta
- With crusty garlic bread to soak up the sauce
- Alongside grilled asparagus or roasted vegetables
Tips for Perfect Seafood:
- Dry scallops thoroughly for a proper sear.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook seafood, as it can become rubbery.
Would you like a variation, such as adding parmesan or a spicy twist?