Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops

Garlic butter lobster and scallops is one of the most indulgent and flavorful seafood dishes you can prepare. This dish combines the richness of lobster and the delicate sweetness of scallops with the heavenly garlic butter sauce, creating an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to enjoy a gourmet meal at home, this recipe is sure to impress.

If you’ve never worked with lobster or scallops before, don’t worry! This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, from selecting your seafood to the final garnishing. And if you’re looking to explore more about the garlic butter sauce and its applications in various dishes, check out this comprehensive guide to garlic butter on Serious Eats. They go in-depth about the history and techniques for creating a perfect garlic butter sauce that will elevate this dish. Additionally, learn the ins and outs of preparing lobster and handling fresh seafood with this helpful lobster preparation guide from Lobster from Maine.

Why Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops?

The combination of lobster and scallops in a rich garlic butter sauce has been a favorite in fine dining for years, and for good reason. The delicate texture and sweet flavor of lobster paired with the soft, buttery scallops provide an unparalleled taste experience. The key to success lies in the sauce—garlic butter is a simple yet luxurious addition that enhances the flavors of both the lobster and scallops, making them the star of the dish.

Additionally, this dish is versatile. You can serve it as a decadent starter, a light main course, or as part of a larger seafood feast. Not to mention, it’s incredibly easy to prepare with a few basic ingredients, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced home cooks.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops

The ingredients list for this dish is relatively short, but each element plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Lobster tails (fresh or frozen)

• Scallops (fresh or frozen)

• Unsalted butter

• Fresh garlic (minced)

• Lemon juice for a touch of acidity

• Fresh parsley for garnish

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: chili flakes for heat, rosemary or thyme for additional flavor depth

While the main stars are the lobster and scallops, the garlic butter sauce really ties everything together. You can even customize the sauce by adding herbs, spices, or a dash of white wine for an extra kick.

Preparing the Lobster and Scallops

Before cooking, it’s essential to properly prepare both the lobster and scallops. Proper preparation ensures even cooking and the best texture and flavor. Here’s how you can do it:

Cleaning and Preparing Lobster

When working with lobster, especially lobster tails, it’s important to clean and prepare them properly to ensure the meat is tender and the flavor is perfect.

• Start by cutting down the center of the lobster’s hard shell using kitchen scissors or a sharp knife.

• Gently pull the lobster meat out, keeping it attached at the base.

• Remove any visible veins and rinse the lobster meat under cold water to clean it thoroughly.

• If you’re using whole lobsters, you can also remove the legs and claws and clean them, though lobster tails are typically the most common for this dish.

For more tips on how to properly cook lobster and handle it like a pro, be sure to check out this lobster preparation guide, which covers everything you need to know about selecting, preparing, and cooking lobster to perfection.

Cleaning and Preparing Scallops

Scallops are delicate and require a gentle touch to preserve their tender texture. Here’s how to clean and prepare them:

• Start by gently removing the muscle from the side of each scallop (this is the small side muscle, often referred to as the “foot”).

• Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps them sear better during cooking.

• Check for any grit or sand, especially if you’re using bay scallops, and rinse them again if needed.

If you’re unsure about cleaning and preparing scallops, you can find more detailed instructions and video tutorials on various cooking websites.

Cooking Lobster and Scallops to Perfection

The secret to this dish lies in how you cook the lobster and scallops. Both ingredients cook quickly, so it’s crucial to use the right technique to prevent them from becoming tough or overcooked.

Searing Scallops

• Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add a bit of butter or olive oil.

• Once the pan is hot, gently place the scallops in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. This ensures they cook evenly.

• Sear the scallops for 2–3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Avoid flipping them too often, as this will prevent them from achieving that perfect sear.

• Once done, remove the scallops from the pan and set them aside.

Cooking Lobster Tails

There are several methods to cook lobster—boiling, grilling, broiling, or baking. However, for this recipe, we’ll focus on pan-searing the lobster tails.

• In the same pan, add more butter and bring the heat to medium-high.

• Sear the lobster tails for 4–5 minutes on each side until the lobster meat turns opaque and tender. You can also insert a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C) for perfect doneness.

Both lobster and scallops should not be overcooked, as they can become rubbery. Keep an eye on them and remove them from heat as soon as they’re done.

Making the Garlic Butter Sauce

The garlic butter sauce is the heart of this dish. Its richness and depth of flavor are what bring the lobster and scallops together.

Preparing the Garlic Butter Sauce

• In the same pan used to cook the seafood, add 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat.

• Once the butter melts, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can turn bitter.

• Stir in a squeeze of lemon juice for acidity and season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Optionally, add herbs like parsley, thyme, or even a pinch of chili flakes if you want a bit of heat.

Once the sauce is ready, you can return the lobster and scallops to the pan and let them soak in the sauce for another 1–2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Serving Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops

Presentation is key when serving this decadent dish. Here are a few ideas to make your meal look as good as it tastes:

• Plating the Dish: Place the lobster and scallops artfully on the plate, then spoon the garlic butter sauce over the top. You can garnish with fresh parsley or a slice of lemon for a pop of color.

• Side Dishes: Pair the dish with garlic bread, steamed vegetables (like asparagus or green beans), or pasta to balance the richness of the garlic butter sauce.

• Wine Pairing: For the perfect wine pairing, go with a light Chardonnay or a crisp Pinot Grigio, both of which complement the delicate flavors of the lobster and scallops.

Troubleshooting and Tips for Success

Cooking lobster and scallops to perfection can sometimes be tricky. Here are a few tips to ensure everything goes smoothly:

• Overcooked Seafood: Both lobster and scallops cook quickly. If they’re cooked for too long, they can turn rubbery. Keep a close eye on them and remove them from the heat once they’re opaque and firm.

• Garlic Butter Sauce Separation: If your sauce starts to separate, whisk in a little heavy cream or a touch of water to bring it back together.

• Flavor Imbalances: If the sauce tastes too rich, add a little more lemon juice for acidity. If it’s too bland, increase the seasoning with more garlic, salt, or a touch of white wine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen lobster and scallops for this recipe?

• Yes, frozen lobster and scallops are perfect for this dish. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking. Pat them dry to remove any excess moisture, which helps with searing.

What can I substitute for garlic if I have an allergy?

• If you have a garlic allergy, you can substitute with garlic-infused oil or use asafoetida, a spice often used as a garlic substitute in Indian cuisine. Fresh chives or leeks can also provide a mild onion flavor in place of garlic.

How do I store leftovers?

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, but be cautious not to overcook the seafood.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

• While the lobster and scallops are best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients (cleaning and marinating) ahead of time. Keep the lobster and scallops refrigerated and cook the garlic butter sauce just before serving.

Conclusion

Garlic butter lobster and scallops is a show-stopping dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare with just a few key ingredients. The rich, buttery sauce elevates the natural flavors of the lobster and scallops, creating a dining experience that’s both luxurious and satisfying. Whether you’re serving this for a special occasion or simply enjoying a fantastic meal, it’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops

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• Author: iyma hernandes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x

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Description

An indulgent and flavorful seafood dish combining rich lobster, tender scallops, and a heavenly garlic butter sauce. Perfect for special occasions or a gourmet meal at home.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lobster tails (fresh or frozen)
• 8 large scallops (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chili flakes, rosemary, or thyme

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Instructions

1. Prepare the lobster by cutting down the shell, pulling out the meat, and removing any veins. Rinse under cold water.
2. Clean the scallops by removing the side muscle and patting them dry.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of butter.
4. Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
5. In the same pan, add more butter and sear the lobster tails for 4-5 minutes per side until opaque and tender.
6. Add minced garlic to the pan and sauté for 1 minute.
7. Stir in lemon juice, salt, pepper, and optional herbs. Return the scallops and lobster to the pan.
8. Let them simmer in the sauce for 1-2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Serve with garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or pasta. Pair with Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio for an elevated experience.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Pan-Seared
• Cuisine: Seafood

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 portion
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 200mg

Keywords: lobster, scallops, garlic butter, seafood dinner, gourmet meal