Picture this: a busy weeknight, and you’re craving something special. That’s where my Seared Scallops and Lobster come in! This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transforms an ordinary evening into a luxurious seafood dinner. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, the rich garlic butter sauce will have everyone asking for seconds. So, let’s dive into this elegant seafood dinner that’s perfect for any occasion, even if it’s just to treat yourself!
Why You’ll Love This Seared Scallops and Lobster
This Seared Scallops and Lobster dish is a game-changer for busy moms and professionals alike. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish. The flavors are simply divine, with the garlic butter sauce elevating the seafood to new heights. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to celebrate special moments or simply indulge after a long day. You’ll feel like a gourmet chef without the fuss!
Ingredients for Seared Scallops and Lobster
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making your Seared Scallops and Lobster shine. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Lobster tail: Fresh or frozen, this is the star of the dish. Look for a tail that’s bright in color and firm to the touch.
- Sea scallops: Choose large, dry scallops for the best sear. Avoid wet scallops, as they can be tricky to cook.
- Unsalted butter: This adds richness to the dish. Using unsalted allows you to control the saltiness.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the sauce with a delightful aroma and flavor. You can also use garlic powder in a pinch.
- Olive oil: A splash of olive oil helps achieve that perfect sear on the scallops. Feel free to substitute with another high-heat oil.
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the richness of the butter.
- Lemon zest: This adds a burst of citrus flavor. Use a microplane for the best results.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley not only adds color but also a fresh taste that complements the seafood.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste for the perfect flavor.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Remember, using fresh ingredients will elevate your dish, making it a memorable lobster and scallops recipe that’s sure to impress!
How to Make Seared Scallops and Lobster
Step 1: Prepare the Scallops
To start, pat the sea scallops dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden crust. Next, season both sides generously with salt and pepper. The seasoning enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops. If you have time, let them sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors. This simple preparation sets the stage for a delicious pan seared scallops with lobster experience!
Step 2: Sear the Scallops
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the scallops in the pan. Sear them for about 2–3 minutes on each side. You want them to develop a lovely golden brown color. Avoid overcrowding the pan; this ensures even cooking. When done, they should be firm to the touch and slightly translucent in the center. This is the magic of scallops in butter sauce!
Step 3: Cook the Lobster
In the same skillet, add the lobster tail, flesh-side down. Cook for 4–5 minutes, flipping halfway through. The lobster should turn a beautiful opaque color when done. If you want extra flavor, add a small pat of butter on top while it cooks. This step is essential for a rich, decadent taste. You’ll love how the lobster with garlic butter sauce complements the scallops perfectly!
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Once the scallops and lobster are cooked, it’s time to create the garlic butter sauce. Reduce the heat to low and add butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the pan. Stir gently, allowing the garlic to infuse the butter without burning. This sauce is the heart of the dish, bringing everything together. Spoon it over the seafood for that luxurious finish!
Step 5: Combine and Serve
To plate your dish, arrange the seared scallops and lobster on a warm plate. Drizzle the garlic butter sauce generously over the top. For a pop of color, sprinkle with fresh parsley. This final touch not only looks beautiful but adds a fresh flavor. Your elegant seafood dinner is now ready to impress!
Tips for Success
- Always pat scallops dry before cooking for a perfect sear.
- Use a hot skillet to achieve that golden crust on the scallops.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Fresh ingredients make a world of difference in flavor.
- Let the garlic butter sauce simmer gently to avoid burning the garlic.
Equipment Needed
- Skillet: A non-stick or cast-iron skillet works best for searing.
- Spatula: A thin spatula helps flip the scallops and lobster easily.
- Measuring spoons: For precise ingredient measurements, especially for the garlic butter sauce.
- Paper towels: Essential for drying the scallops before cooking.
Variations
- Herb-Infused Butter: Add fresh herbs like thyme or dill to the garlic butter sauce for an aromatic twist.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the garlic butter sauce for a bit of heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute scallops with large mushrooms or eggplant slices for a plant-based version.
- Different Seafood: Try adding shrimp or crab meat alongside the lobster for a delightful seafood medley.
- Gluten-Free Pasta: Serve the scallops and lobster over gluten-free pasta for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Pair with garlic mashed potatoes or a fresh arugula salad for a balanced meal.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp Chardonnay or a light Sauvignon Blanc complements the seafood beautifully.
- Presentation: Serve on a white plate to highlight the vibrant colors of the dish.
- Garnish: Add lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty touch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen scallops and lobster for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. This will help achieve that perfect sear on your pan seared scallops with lobster.
Q: What can I serve with my Seared Scallops and Lobster?
A: This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. A crisp white wine, like Chardonnay, also complements the flavors beautifully.
Q: How do I know when the scallops and lobster are cooked perfectly?
A: Scallops should be golden brown on the outside and slightly translucent in the center. The lobster should turn opaque and firm. Trust your instincts; they should feel tender yet firm!
Q: Can I make the garlic butter sauce ahead of time?
A: While it’s best fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance. Just reheat gently before drizzling over your seafood to keep that rich flavor intact.
Q: Is this lobster and scallops recipe suitable for special occasions?
A: Absolutely! This elegant seafood dinner is perfect for holidays, anniversaries, or any special occasion where you want to impress your guests.
Final Thoughts
Creating Seared Scallops and Lobster is more than just cooking; it’s about crafting a moment of joy. The rich flavors of the garlic butter sauce, combined with the tender seafood, create a symphony of taste that delights the senses. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a special occasion, this dish brings a touch of luxury to your table. I love how it transforms an ordinary evening into something extraordinary. So, gather your loved ones, savor each bite, and relish the memories you’ll create together. You deserve this indulgence!
Print
Seared Scallops and Lobster: Indulge in Luxury Tonight!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Indulge in a luxurious seafood dinner with seared scallops and lobster in a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lobster tail, split and cleaned
- 10 large sea scallops, patted dry
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Season scallops with salt and pepper. Sear in hot olive oil for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- In the same pan, add lobster tail flesh-side down with a little butter. Cook for 4–5 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Reduce heat and add butter, garlic, lemon juice, and zest to the pan. Stir and simmer gently.
- Spoon sauce over scallops and lobster to glaze.
- Serve on a warm plate, drizzle remaining sauce, and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Ensure scallops are patted dry for a better sear.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- This dish is perfect for special occasions or holiday dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: ~540
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: varies
- Fat: ~30g
- Saturated Fat: ~15g
- Unsaturated Fat: varies
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: ~42g
- Cholesterol: varies
Keywords: Seared Scallops and Lobster, Garlic butter seafood, Lobster and scallops recipe, Pan seared scallops with lobster, Elegant seafood dinner, Lobster with garlic butter sauce, Scallops in butter sauce, Surf and turf seafood, Holiday seafood recipe, Special occasion seafood dish, Easy seafood skillet