If you are craving a seafood dish that feels like a special occasion but is surprisingly easy to make, the Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops Recipe is going to become your new go-to. Juicy lobster tails and delicate scallops are bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce with a hint of lemon and smoky paprika, creating a rich and buttery delight that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re impressing a dinner guest or treating yourself to a luxurious meal, this recipe balances elegance and simplicity so perfectly you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it before.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops Recipe plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture. The butter brings richness and a velvety finish, garlic adds its unmistakable aromatic punch, and a touch of lemon juice brightens everything up. Each seasoning and fresh element contributes to making a decadent but approachable dish.
- 2 lobster tails: Make sure they are fresh or fully thawed for the best juicy texture.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Unsalted butter lets you control the seasoning perfectly.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives the essential robust flavor base.
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances the richness.
- 1 tsp paprika: For a subtle smoky depth and lovely color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing natural seafood flavors.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds freshness and a pop of color.
- Lemon wedges for serving: Extra citrus touch to squeeze on top.
- 1/2 lb sea scallops, patted dry: Dry scallops sear better and develop a golden crust.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Used for searing scallops and making garlic butter sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a second layer of garlicky goodness specifically for the scallops.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps achieve that perfect sear on scallops without burning butter.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Tailors the scallop seasoning just right.
How to Make Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails
Start by carefully cutting through the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise using kitchen shears. Gently lift the meat out, keeping it connected at the base, then rest it elegantly back atop the shell. This not only helps in even cooking but also creates a beautiful presentation later.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter for Lobster
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture will serve as the flavorful glaze that transforms your lobster into a juicy, fragrant treat that sings with every bite.
Step 3: Broil the Lobster
Heat your oven’s broiler to high. Place the lobster tails on a baking sheet and brush generously with the garlic butter. Broil for about 8 to 10 minutes until the lobster meat turns opaque and just cooked through. Don’t forget to baste with more garlic butter halfway to keep it extra moist and bursting with flavor. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with bright lemon wedges.
Step 4: Sear the Scallops
While the lobster broils, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your sea scallops simply with salt and pepper, then sear them for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they develop a gorgeous golden crust and feel slightly firm to touch. This caramelization is key to unlocking that perfect texture contrast.
Step 5: Make Garlic Butter for Scallops
In the same skillet, melt butter and gently cook the minced garlic just until fragrant—about a minute. Return the scallops to the pan and then carefully toss them in the garlic butter to coat fully. This step infuses them with rich, garlic goodness that complements the lobster beautifully.
Step 6: Plate and Serve
Arrange the broiled lobster tails alongside the buttery seared scallops on a plate. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter from the skillet over the top, sprinkle fresh parsley, and add lemon wedges for that extra zing. This visually stunning plate is just as delightful to the taste buds as it is to the eyes.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a burst of vibrant green color but also lends a subtle earthiness that balances the rich garlic butter sauce beautifully. Lemon wedges are a must-have on the side to add a fresh citrus kick that cuts through the buttery flavors.
Side Dishes
Keep the sides light and fresh to complement the indulgence of the Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops Recipe. Think garlic roasted asparagus, a crisp mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette, or simple steamed baby potatoes tossed with herbs. These sides enhance rather than overpower your seafood centerpiece.
Creative Ways to Present
For a wow factor, serve your lobster and scallops on a wooden board garnished with edible flowers or microgreens. You can also pair with a drizzle of herb-infused olive oil or a delicate white wine reduction for an elegant restaurant-style experience at home. Presentation is part of the joy with such a beautiful dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover lobster and scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best eaten within 24 hours to enjoy fresh flavors and tender textures without drying out or becoming rubbery.
Freezing
While freezing cooked lobster and scallops is possible, it’s not ideal as the texture can suffer. If you must freeze, place them in a tightly sealed container or vacuum-sealed bag to minimize freezer burn and consume within a month for the best quality.
Reheating
To gently reheat, warm leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a small pat of butter to keep them moist. Avoid the microwave as it can toughen the delicate seafood. Reheat just until warmed through to preserve that lovely tender bite.
FAQs
Can I substitute other seafood for the lobster and scallops?
Absolutely! Shrimp or jumbo prawns can be used instead of lobster, and you could swap scallops for sea bass or even halibut chunks. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly to ensure everything is perfectly done.
What wine pairs best with the Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops Recipe?
A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay pairs beautifully with this dish. Their acidity balances the rich garlic butter and complements the sweetness of the lobster and scallops.
How do I know when the scallops are perfectly cooked?
Scallops are done when they have a golden brown crust and feel slightly firm but still tender to the touch. Overcooking turns them rubbery, so keep a close eye during searing, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Can I prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance?
Yes! You can mix the garlic butter components ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Warm slightly before using for the dish. This makes the cooking process even quicker and easier.
Is broiling the only way to cook the lobster tails?
While broiling gives a lovely caramelized top, you can also steam or grill the lobster tails. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and apply the garlic butter sauce after cooking to retain flavor.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend trying this Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops Recipe enough if you want to elevate your seafood game with minimal fuss. The combination of buttery, garlicky flavors and tender, juicy seafood is irresistible and perfect for any occasion that calls for something a bit special. Once you taste it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a favorite to share with friends and family.
Print
Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Broiling and Frying
- Cuisine: American Seafood
Description
This Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops recipe offers a luxurious yet simple seafood dish that combines tender lobster tails broiled to perfection with seared scallops coated in a fragrant garlic butter sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it is perfect for an elegant dinner or special occasion, featuring rich flavors enhanced by fresh lemon and parsley.
Ingredients
Lobster Tails
- 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
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
- 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 to allow for even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
- Make Garlic Butter for Lobster: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush this garlic butter mixture generously over the exposed lobster meat to infuse the flavors.
- Broil the Lobster: Preheat your oven’s broiler to high. Place the prepared lobster tails on a baking sheet and broil for 8-10 minutes, or until the lobster meat turns opaque and is cooked through. Halfway through cooking, baste the lobster meat again with the garlic butter for extra richness.
- Sear the Scallops: While the lobster broils, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the scallops with salt and pepper on both sides. Place them in the hot skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until they develop a golden brown crust and feel slightly firm to the touch. Remove scallops from skillet and set aside.
- Make Garlic Butter for Scallops: In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Cook gently for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic. Return the scallops to the pan, toss them gently to coat in the garlic butter and warm through.
- Serve: Plate the garlic butter lobster tails and scallops together. Garnish with fresh parsley and drizzle any remaining garlic butter from the skillet over the scallops. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an added citrusy zest.
Notes
- Ensure scallops are patted dry to achieve a good sear and prevent steaming.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor in the garlic butter mixture.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste.
- Broil lobster tails carefully to avoid overcooking, which can make the meat tough.
- Fresh parsley adds a nice color contrast and a mild herbal note.
