Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops

Introduction

Garlic butter lobster and scallops is the ultimate surf-and-surf dish — elegant, indulgent, and bursting with rich ocean flavor. Lobster brings sweet, tender meat, while scallops offer a delicate, buttery texture. When both are kissed by garlic butter and lemon, it’s simply irresistible. Perfect for romantic dinners, holidays, or anytime you want to spoil yourself

Ingredients

For the Seafood:

• 2 lobster tails (about 6–8 oz each)
• 1 lb large sea scallops (patted dry)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for searing scallops)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Garnish:

• Lemon wedges
• Extra parsley or chives

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails

1. Use kitchen scissors to cut down the top of the lobster shell to the tail.
2. Gently pull the meat up through the opening, resting it on top of the shell (this helps it cook evenly and look beautiful).
3. Season with salt, pepper, and a light sprinkle of paprika.

Step 2: Cook the Lobster

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter and brush it over the lobster meat.
3. Place the tails on a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and firm to the touch.
   (Alternatively, you can grill them for about 5 minutes per side.)

Step 3: Sear the Scallops

1. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels — moisture prevents a good sear.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. When the pan is hot and shimmering, place the scallops in a single layer (don’t overcrowd).
4. Sear for 1½–2 minutes per side, until golden brown with a crust.
5. Remove and set aside on a warm plate.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Let it simmer for 1 minute to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

1. Pour the warm garlic butter sauce over the lobster and scallops.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges.
3. Serve immediately with a side of steamed veggies, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Methods & Tips

• Perfect Scallop Sear:
  Use a very hot pan and minimal movement — once you place them, don’t touch until it’s time to flip.
• Butter Basting Option:
  After flipping scallops, add a little extra butter and spoon it over them for rich flavor.
• Lobster Texture:
  Don’t overcook! Lobster meat should be opaque white and slightly springy, not rubbery.
• Wine Option:
  Add a splash of white wine to the garlic butter sauce for extra depth.

History

Lobster and scallops were once considered “poor man’s food” in coastal New England, often eaten by fishermen. Over time, as refrigeration and transport improved, these delicacies became symbols of luxury cuisine. Pairing them with garlic butter was inspired by French “beurre blanc” and Mediterranean seafood traditions — merging elegance and simplicity.

Benefits

• High in Protein: Promotes muscle repair and strength.
• Rich in Omega-3s: Supports heart and brain health.
• Low in Carbs: Great for keto or low-carb diets.
• Garlic & Lemon: Help with immunity, digestion, and detoxification.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with garlic mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, or buttered linguine.
• Enjoy with a glass of chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
• Add crusty bread to soak up that heavenly garlic butter sauce!

Lovers of This Dish Say…

People adore this recipe for its melt-in-your-mouth seafood, silky butter sauce, and restaurant-quality flavor made easily at home. It’s a favorite for anniversaries, Valentine’s Day, or “just because I deserve it” nights.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops is pure seafood bliss — tender, buttery, and full of flavor. It’s the perfect mix of indulgence and simplicity, proving that fine dining can be achieved right in your own kitchen. Serve this to impress, celebrate, or simply treat yourself — because you’re worth it