GARLIC BUTTER LOBSTER AND SCALLOPS

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Lobster: Using kitchen shears, cut the top of the lobster tail shell lengthwise to expose the meat. Gently pull the meat out of the shell while leaving it attached at the base. This will create a beautiful presentation.
3. Season: Rub the lobster meat with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the lobster tails in a baking dish and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Scallops

1. Pat Dry: Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear.
2. Season: Drizzle the scallops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Be careful not to let it brown.
2. Add Garlic and Seasonings: Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but do not let the garlic brown.
3. Finish the Sauce: Stir in the lemon juice and mix well. Remove the saucepan from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Seafood

1. Bake the Lobster: Pour half of the garlic butter sauce over the lobster tails. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and cooked through.
2. Sear the Scallops: While the lobster is baking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the pan. Once hot, carefully place the scallops in the skillet, making sure they are not overcrowded. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. The scallops should have a nice crust on the outside but remain tender inside.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

1. Combine: Once the lobster is cooked, remove it from the oven and drizzle the remaining garlic butter sauce over the top. Add the seared scallops to the baking dish, ensuring everything is coated in the garlic butter.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the dish for a burst of color and flavor.
3. Serve: Serve immediately, either on a bed of pasta, alongside rice, or with fresh vegetables. Enjoy the rich flavors and the delightful combination of lobster and scallops!

Tips for Making the Best Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops

• Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh seafood when possible. Fresh lobster and scallops will have the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcook: Seafood can become tough and rubbery if overcooked. Keep a close eye on both the lobster and scallops to ensure they remain tender.
• Customize the Heat: If you enjoy spice, feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes in the garlic butter sauce. You can also add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Make It a Meal: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread, a fresh garden salad, or a glass of white wine to round out your meal.

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Enhance the dish by adding asparagus, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the baking dish during the last few minutes of cooking. This adds color and nutrition to your meal.
• Substitute with Other Seafood: If you’re not a fan of lobster or scallops, feel free to substitute with shrimp, crab meat, or other seafood options.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce: For a richer sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the garlic butter before pouring it over the seafood.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops recipe is a delicious way to treat yourself and your loved ones to an unforgettable seafood feast. With its simple preparation and luxurious flavors, it’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home. Once you experience the combination of tender lobster and perfectly seared scallops bathed in aromatic garlic butter, you’ll want to make this dish again and again! Enjoy every delicious bite!