Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Seafood
1.Prepare the Lobster Tails:
- Using kitchen scissors, cut down the top of the lobster tail shell, stopping just before the tail fan. Gently pull the shell apart, and lift the lobster meat out, leaving it attached at the base of the tail. You can also remove the vein (the dark line) if it’s visible.
- Season the lobster meat with salt and pepper.
2.Prepare the Scallops:
- Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help them sear better in the pan.
- Season with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Cook the Lobster and Scallops
1.Sear the Lobster:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted and the oil is hot, add the lobster tails, meat side down. Sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until the lobster is opaque and cooked through (internal temperature should be about 140°F (60°C)).
- Remove the lobster tails from the pan and set them aside.
2.Sear the Scallops:
- In the same pan, add another tablespoon of butter and the remaining olive oil. Once hot, add the scallops in a single layer (make sure they’re not overcrowded).
- Sear the scallops for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 130°F (54°C). Be careful not to overcook them!
- Once cooked, remove the scallops from the pan and set aside with the lobster tails.
- Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
3.Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- In the same pan, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining butter.
- Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant and golden (be careful not to burn the garlic).
4.Add Lemon and Broth:
- Stir in the lemon juice and broth (if using). Let it simmer for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
Step 4: Combine Everything
1.Return the Seafood to the Pan:
- Add the lobster tails and scallops back into the pan, spooning the garlic butter sauce over them. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat everything through and allow the seafood to soak in the sauce.
2.Garnish:
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops:
- Don’t Overcook: Both lobster and scallops cook quickly. Overcooking them can result in tough, rubbery texture. Keep an eye on them and check the internal temperature to ensure they’re just right.
- Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lobster tails and scallops yield the best results. However, frozen works just fine too; just make sure to thaw them properly.
- Flavor Variations: You can add a splash of white wine to the garlic butter sauce for extra depth of flavor. If you like a bit of heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Serve with: This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or even a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
- Make It a Complete Meal: If you’re serving this for a dinner, consider adding some garlic bread or buttery mashed potatoes as a side for a full, indulgent meal.
Serving Suggestions:
This Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops dish is perfect for a special occasion or a date night. It’s rich, flavorful, and sure to impress. You can serve it with:
- Linguine or spaghetti with a light drizzle of the garlic butter sauce.
- Rice pilaf or roasted baby potatoes for a heartier meal.
- A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the seafood.
This dish is a true showstopper! The garlic butter sauce brings out the natural sweetness of the lobster and scallops, and the whole meal is incredibly easy to prepare. What sides would you pair with this, or is there a specific occasion you’re thinking of serving it for?