Garlic Butter Lobster

Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops is the epitome of an indulgent seafood dish. With its rich, buttery garlic sauce, the sweetness of lobster, and the delicate texture of scallops, this recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a luxurious dinner at home. Combining two of the finest seafood options—lobster and scallops—this dish will leave you with a memorable experience.

This seafood combination has become a go-to for fine dining, thanks to its flavor-packed simplicity. It’s not just about the taste, though; the visual appeal of this dish is enough to impress even the most discerning of guests. If you’re wondering how to select the best seafood for your dish, visit Better Homes & Gardens for useful tips on choosing fresh, high-quality scallops and lobster. If you need a side dish suggestion, check out The Starving Chef Blog for an excellent lemon orzo recipe to pair with this luxurious meal.

Why Garlic Butter Works So Well with Lobster and Scallops

The garlic butter sauce is the heart and soul of this dish. Garlic, a universally loved aromatic, pairs beautifully with the sweetness of lobster and the mild flavor of scallops. When the butter melts into the sauce, it creates a rich, velvety texture that enhances the natural flavors of the seafood.

In fact, the garlic butter technique is not just for lobster and scallops. It’s also a popular choice in various cuisines that celebrate seafood. Whether it’s a sizzling garlic shrimp dish or garlic butter crab legs, the technique remains a tried-and-true favorite for seafood lovers worldwide.

Key Components of Garlic Butter Sauce

To make the perfect garlic butter sauce:

• Butter – The base for any garlic butter sauce, it adds richness and creaminess.

• Garlic – Fresh garlic, minced, provides an aromatic punch.

• Paprika – A dash of smoked paprika adds depth and a bit of heat.

• Lemon Juice – Adds brightness and balances the richness of the butter.

By combining these simple yet effective ingredients, you create a sauce that coats the seafood beautifully, making each bite rich in flavor.

The Best Way to Select Lobster and Scallops

Choosing the right lobster tails and scallops can make a huge difference in the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure you pick the freshest and best quality ingredients for your recipe.

How to Choose Fresh Lobster Tails

Lobster is a luxurious ingredient, so it’s essential to select the best quality tails. Here’s what you should look for:

• Firmness: When you press the lobster tail, it should feel firm, not mushy.

• Color: The shell should be a rich, vibrant red. Avoid lobster tails with discolored shells.

• Smell: Fresh lobster should have a clean, ocean-like scent. If it smells overly fishy, it’s likely not fresh.

How to Choose Scallops

Scallops are delicate, and they require care when choosing. Keep the following in mind:

• Dry-Packed vs. Wet-Packed: Always opt for dry-packed scallops as they hold up better when cooked and seared.

• Appearance: The scallops should be ivory or slightly creamy in color. Avoid any scallops with a slimy coating or an overly strong odor.

• Smell: Fresh scallops should have a sweet, slightly briny smell. Avoid any seafood with a strong fishy scent.

For more detailed tips on choosing fresh seafood, check out this article from Better Homes & Gardens.

How to Prepare Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops

Now that we’ve covered the importance of selecting quality seafood, let’s move on to preparation. Here’s everything you need to do to get your lobster tails and scallops ready for cooking.

Preparing the Lobster Tails

1. Defrosting Frozen Lobster Tails: If you’re using frozen lobster tails, make sure to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or place them in cold water for faster thawing.

2. Cutting the Shell: Using kitchen scissors, carefully cut through the top of the lobster shell down to the tail, but be sure not to cut the meat itself. You should also remove the vein, which looks like a dark, stringy line running along the lobster tail.

Preparing the Scallops

1. Pat Dry: Scallops release moisture when exposed to heat, so it’s essential to pat them dry using paper towels.

2. Removing the Side Muscle: Scallops often come with a side muscle, a small rectangular piece of tough tissue on the side. Remove it gently by peeling it away from the scallop.

Cooking the Lobster and Scallops

Now, let’s get to the best part: cooking! Here’s how to achieve perfectly cooked lobster tails and scallops every time.

Searing the Scallops

1. Heat a small amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Once the skillet is hot, add the scallops. Make sure they are placed without touching each other to get an even sear.

3. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and opaque in the center. Overcooking scallops can make them rubbery, so be careful.

Cooking the Lobster Tails

1. In the same skillet, melt about 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

2. Add the lobster tails, meat-side down, and cook for about 4 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the lobster meat is opaque and slightly firm.

Combining the Seafood

1. Once the lobster tails are cooked, return the scallops to the skillet and pour the garlic butter sauce over both the lobster and scallops. Let them cook together for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops

Presentation is just as important as the flavor in this luxurious dish. Here’s how to plate your garlic butter lobster and scallops to make it look as good as it tastes.

Plating the Dish

• Arrange the lobster tails and scallops on a large platter or individual plates.

• Drizzle any remaining garlic butter sauce over the seafood for extra richness.

• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges for a burst of color.

Suggested Side Dishes

To complement your dish, consider serving with these sides:

• Lemon Orzo – The bright and citrusy flavor of orzo pairs wonderfully with the richness of the garlic butter sauce. Get the recipe on The Starving Chef Blog.

• Garlic Bread – Perfect for sopping up the remaining garlic butter sauce.

• Green Salad – A simple, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the seafood.

Wine Pairing

Pair your garlic butter lobster and scallops with a crisp, cold glass of white wine. A Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc works well, as the acidity helps cut through the richness of the butter.

Nutritional Information

While this dish is indulgent, it’s also packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the caloric content and macronutrients in one serving:

Caloric Content

• Approximately 450-500 calories per serving (based on 4 oz of lobster tail and 3-4 scallops).

Macronutrients

• Protein: 35-40 grams

• Fat: 30-35 grams (largely from the butter and seafood)

• Carbohydrates: 5-7 grams (mostly from any sides you serve).

Health Considerations

Lobster and scallops are excellent sources of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making this a nutritious meal that can contribute to heart health. Just be mindful of the butter content, as it adds richness and calories.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen lobster tails and scallops?

• Yes, you can use frozen seafood, but be sure to thaw it properly before cooking. If using frozen lobster tails, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or in cold water.

2. How do I know when scallops are done cooking?

• Perfectly cooked scallops should be opaque, slightly firm to the touch, and have a golden brown sear. Avoid overcooking, as they can become rubbery.

3. What can I substitute for lobster tails?

• You can substitute lobster with shrimp, crab meat, or even a firm white fish, although the texture and flavor will be different.

4. Can I prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance?

• Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat it gently before using.

5. Is this dish suitable for dietary restrictions?

• The dish is gluten-free and keto-friendly, but if you’re on a low-sodium diet, you may want to reduce the amount of salt and use unsalted butter.

Garlic Butter Lobster

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• Author: iyma hernandes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x

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Description

A luxurious seafood dish featuring tender lobster tails and delicate scallops in a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for special occasions or an indulgent dinner at home.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lobster tails
• 8 large sea scallops
• 4 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

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Instructions

1. Thaw lobster tails if frozen by refrigerating overnight or placing in cold water.
2. Use kitchen scissors to cut through the top shell of the lobster tail and remove the vein.
3. Pat scallops dry with a paper towel and remove the side muscle if present.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add scallops, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
7. Add lobster tails, meat-side down, cooking for 4 minutes. Flip and cook another 3-4 minutes until opaque.
8. Return scallops to the skillet and pour the garlic butter sauce over the seafood.
9. Cook for 1-2 more minutes to combine flavors.
10. Serve immediately with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.

Notes

Pair with lemon orzo, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Pan-Seared
• Cuisine: Seafood

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 180mg

Keywords: lobster, scallops, garlic butter, seafood, fine dining