Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops

Introduction

There’s something undeniably luxurious about seafood, especially when it’s prepared with rich, aromatic ingredients like garlic and butter. Recently, I had the pleasure of making Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops for a special dinner. The meal was a hit, eliciting gasps of delight from my family and leaving everyone at the table raving about the incredible flavors. The tender lobster, succulent scallops, and fragrant garlic butter came together to create a dish that felt both indulgent and comforting. If you’re looking for a dish that will impress your guests or treat yourself on a special occasion, this recipe is it!

Ingredients

For the Lobster:

• 2 lobster tails
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

For the Scallops:

• 1/2 lb sea scallops, patted dry
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

For the Lobster:

1. Prepare the Lobster Tails: Using kitchen shears, carefully 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.
2. Make Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the lobster tails.
3. Broil the Lobster: Preheat your oven’s broiler. Place the lobster tails on a baking sheet and broil for 8-10 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and cooked through. Baste with more garlic butter halfway through. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

For the Scallops:

1. Sear the Scallops: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the scallops with salt and pepper. Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes per side until they are golden brown and slightly firm to the touch. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside.
2. Make Garlic Butter for Scallops: In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, then return the scallops to the pan and coat them in the garlic butter.

Serve:

1. Plate the Dish: Serve the garlic butter lobster tails and scallops together, garnished with fresh parsley and a drizzle of the garlic butter from the skillet. Pair with a side of lemon wedges for extra zest.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 2
• Calories per serving: Approximately 650 kcal

Breakdown:

• Total Fat: 45g
• Saturated Fat: 25g
• Cholesterol: 200mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 48g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Plating:
• Arrange lobster tails and scallops on a serving platter.
• Drizzle with additional garlic butter.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
• Pairings:
• Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
• A light salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Seafood: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh lobster and scallops whenever possible.
2. Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the seafood while cooking to avoid rubbery textures. Lobster is done when it’s opaque, and scallops should have a golden crust.
3. Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or dill can elevate the dish even further. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs.
4. Make Extra Garlic Butter: Keep extra garlic butter on the side for dipping or drizzling over the seafood.
5. Perfect the Broiling Technique: If your oven has hot spots, rotate the baking sheet halfway through the broiling process to ensure even cooking.

Recipe Variations

• Add Veggies: Incorporate sautéed spinach or asparagus for a colorful and nutritious addition.
• Use Different Seafood: Try shrimp or crab meat in place of lobster or scallops for variety.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the richness of the seafood.
• Side Dishes: Consider serving alongside garlic bread, a light salad, or roasted vegetables.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: While not ideal, you can freeze cooked lobster and scallops. Place them in an airtight container, ensuring as much air is removed as possible. They can be frozen for up to 1 month but are best enjoyed fresh.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen lobster tails?

Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking for the best results.

2. What can I substitute for heavy butter?

You can use olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative if you want a lighter option.

3. Is there a way to make this dish spicy?

Yes! Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.

4. How can I tell when the scallops are done?

Scallops should be golden brown on the outside and opaque throughout.

5. Can I grill the lobster tails instead of broiling?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a nice smoky flavor.

6. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the seafood.

7. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the garlic butter in advance and refrigerate it.

8. What should I do if I don’t have fresh parsley?

You can use dried parsley or omit it altogether if needed.

9. How do I prevent the scallops from sticking?

Make sure the skillet is well-oiled and hot before adding the scallops.

10. Can I use other types of seafood in this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to mix and match with your favorite seafood options.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops recipe is the epitome of a gourmet meal that you can easily prepare at home. The combination of tender lobster tails and perfectly seared scallops, all drizzled with a rich garlic butter sauce, creates an unforgettable dining experience. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a lovely dinner at home, this dish will impress anyone fortunate enough to share it with you. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in this delightful seafood feast! 🦞

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