Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops
Description
Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops is an elegant seafood dish featuring tender, succulent lobster meat and golden-seared scallops coated in a rich garlic butter sauce. Fresh lemon juice, fragrant garlic, and a touch of paprika enhance the natural sweetness of the seafood, while fresh parsley adds a bright finishing touch. This restaurant-style meal is perfect for date nights, special occasions, holiday dinners, or whenever you want an impressive seafood feast at home.
Ingredients
For the Seafood
– 2 lobster tails (approximately 6–8 ounces each)
– 1 pound large sea scallops, side muscles removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
– ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 5 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
– 2 tablespoons chicken broth or seafood stock
– ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Serving
– Lemon wedges
– Extra chopped parsley
– Steamed asparagus or roasted vegetables
– Mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lobster
If using frozen lobster tails, thaw them completely in the refrigerator. Using kitchen scissors, carefully cut down the center of the top shell, stopping before the tail fin. Gently loosen the meat and lift it slightly above the shell.
Pat the lobster meat dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
Step 2: Prepare the Scallops
Remove the small side muscle from each scallop if still attached. Pat the scallops very dry with paper towels; this is essential for a beautiful golden crust.
Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and a small pinch of paprika. Keep the seasoning light to allow the natural sweetness of the seafood to shine.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for approximately 30–60 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to brown or burn it.
Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, and seafood stock. Simmer gently for 1–2 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the parsley and optional red pepper flakes.
Reserve some sauce for serving.
Step 4: Cook the Lobster
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Place the lobster tails meat-side down and sear for approximately 2 minutes. Turn them over and brush generously with garlic butter.
Continue cooking for another 4–6 minutes, depending on the size of the tails, until the meat becomes opaque and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Transfer the lobster to a warm plate and cover loosely while preparing the scallops.
Step 5: Sear the Scallops
Wipe out the skillet if necessary. Add the remaining olive oil and heat over medium-high heat.
Arrange the scallops in a single layer, leaving space between them. Sear without moving for approximately 2–3 minutes, until a deep golden crust forms.
Flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes, depending on size, until the centers are opaque and the scallops reach 145°F (63°C). Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if needed.
Step 6: Combine with Garlic Butter
Reduce the heat to low. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and a spoonful of the garlic butter sauce to the skillet.
Return the lobster tails to the pan briefly and spoon the warm sauce over the seafood. Turn the scallops gently to coat without breaking their golden crust.
Cook just long enough to warm everything through, avoiding overcooking.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Arrange the lobster tails and scallops on a serving platter. Drizzle with the remaining garlic butter sauce and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges, asparagus, roasted potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, or warm crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Recipe Details
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
– Total Time: Approximately 30–35 minutes
– Servings: 2–3
– Course: Main Course
– Cuisine: Seafood-inspired American
– Cooking Method: Stovetop
– Flavor Profile: Buttery, garlicky, lemony, and savory
Tips for Perfect Lobster and Scallops
– Dry the scallops thoroughly: Excess moisture prevents a golden crust from forming.
– Use fresh garlic: It provides the best flavor for the butter sauce.
– Avoid overcooking: Lobster and scallops become tough and rubbery when cooked too long.
– Cook seafood separately: Lobster tails and scallops have different cooking times, so preparing them individually helps achieve the best texture.
– Use medium-high heat for scallops: A hot skillet creates a caramelized exterior.
– Adjust the lemon: Add extra lemon juice at the end if you prefer a brighter, tangier sauce.
– Serve immediately: Seafood tastes best fresh from the skillet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen lobster tails and scallops?
Yes! Thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Pat the scallops especially dry to help them sear properly.
Q: Can I use salted butter?
Yes. Reduce the added salt and taste the sauce before serving.
Q: How do I know when scallops are cooked?
They should have a golden crust and an opaque center, reaching an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Q: Can I add shrimp to this recipe?
Absolutely! Add peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink, opaque, and fully cooked. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
Q: What sides pair best with garlic butter seafood?
Roasted asparagus, mashed potatoes, garlic rice, steamed broccoli, or a fresh green salad are excellent choices.
Q: Can I make the garlic butter sauce ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it in a covered container. Reheat gently over low heat before serving.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
Refrigerate leftover seafood in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking and consume within 3–4 days. Reheat gently until steaming hot, taking care not to overcook it.
Short Description
Tender lobster tails and golden-seared scallops tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce with fresh lemon, parsley, and aromatic herbs. This elegant seafood dinner is perfect for special occasions or a restaurant-style meal at home.
