This dish is a celebration of the ocean’s finest—tender lobster tails and golden-seared scallops bathed in a rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce. Accented with fresh herbs and a splash of lemon, it’s a decadent yet surprisingly simple recipe that’s perfect for special occasions or an indulgent weekend dinner. The contrast between the sweet, delicate lobster and the buttery, caramelized scallops creates a harmony of textures and flavors that’s truly unforgettable.
Ingredients
For the Lobster:
- 2 lobster tails
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
For the Scallops:
- ½ pound sea scallops, patted dry
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Lobster Tails
- Using kitchen shears, cut through the top of each lobster tail shell lengthwise.
- Gently pull the lobster meat out, keeping it attached at the base, and rest it on top of the shell for a beautiful presentation.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Brush the garlic butter generously over the lobster meat.
2. Broil the Lobster
- Preheat your oven’s broiler.
- Place the lobster tails on a baking sheet lined with foil.
- Broil for 8–10 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and cooked through. Baste with more garlic butter halfway through.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges.
3. Sear the Scallops
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season scallops with salt and pepper.
- Sear scallops for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and slightly firm to the touch. Do not overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed.
- Remove scallops and set aside.
4. Make Garlic Butter for Scallops
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Return scallops to the pan and spoon the garlic butter over them to coat.
5. Assemble and Serve
- Arrange the broiled lobster tails and seared scallops on a serving platter.
- Drizzle with remaining garlic butter from the skillet.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for brightness.
Serving Suggestions
- Sides: Serve with garlic mashed potatoes, herbed rice, or roasted asparagus.
- Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the richness of the dish.
- Presentation Tip: For a restaurant-style look, serve on a white plate with a smear of herb butter and a sprig of thyme or dill.
Variations & Tips
- Add Heat: Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the garlic butter for a spicy kick.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh thyme or tarragon to the butter for a more aromatic profile.
- Make It a Surf & Turf: Pair with a grilled filet mignon for the ultimate indulgence.
This Garlic Butter Lobster & Scallops dish is the kind of meal that turns an ordinary evening into a celebration. Want to try a citrus beurre blanc version next or pair it with a tropical fruit salsa? I’d love to help you elevate it even further!