Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Restaurant-quality flavors at home
  • Ready in under 30 minutes
  • Simple, elegant presentation
  • Perfect for holidays or date nights
  • Naturally low-carb and protein-rich

This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of seafood without overpowering it.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops

For the Seafood

  • 2 lobster tails (about 6–8 oz each)
  • 12 large sea scallops (dry-packed)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Paprika (optional, for color)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 5 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Optional extras:

  • Fresh thyme or rosemary
  • Parmesan shavings for garnish
  • White wine (2 tablespoons)

Choosing the Best Lobster and Scallops

Lobster Tails

  • Choose cold-water lobster tails for best flavor
  • Fresh or frozen both work well
  • If frozen, thaw completely in the refrigerator

Scallops

  • Use dry-packed scallops (no preservatives)
  • Avoid “wet” scallops, which release excess water
  • Look for large, uniform scallops for even cooking

Preparing the Lobster Tails

Cut and Butterfly the Lobster

Using kitchen shears, cut down the top center of the lobster shell. Gently loosen the meat and lift it above the shell, keeping the base attached.

Season the lobster meat lightly with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Preparing the Scallops

Pat the scallops very dry using paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a golden sear.

Season both sides with salt and pepper just before cooking.

Cooking the Lobster

Sear the Lobster Meat

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter.

Place lobster tails meat-side down and sear for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden.

Flip the lobster and cook shell-side down for another 2–3 minutes, spooning butter over the meat. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Cooking the Scallops

Sear to Perfection

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter if needed. Increase heat slightly.

Place scallops in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. Sear for 2 minutes per side without moving them, until a golden crust forms.

Remove scallops from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Garlic Butter Sauce

Build the Flavor

Lower heat to medium. Add remaining butter to the skillet.

Add minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant but not browned.

Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, and red pepper flakes. If using white wine, add it now and let it reduce for 1 minute.

Combining Lobster and Scallops

Return the lobster tails and scallops to the skillet. Spoon the garlic butter sauce generously over the seafood.

Cook for 1–2 minutes, just until everything is warmed through and coated in sauce.

Do not overcook—seafood should remain tender and juicy.

Serving Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops

Serve immediately for best flavor and texture. Spoon extra garlic butter sauce over the top.

Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon wedges, or a light sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

Best Side Dishes for This Seafood Dish

Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops pairs beautifully with:

  • Creamy mashed potatoes
  • Garlic rice or buttered pasta
  • Steamed asparagus or green beans
  • Roasted baby potatoes
  • Crusty bread to soak up the sauce

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers

  • Store in an airtight container
  • Refrigerate for up to 2 days

Reheating

  • Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat
  • Add a small amount of butter to prevent drying
  • Avoid microwaving, as it can toughen seafood

Recipe Variations

Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops

Add ¼ cup heavy cream to the sauce for a rich, creamy finish.

Spicy Garlic Butter Seafood

Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.

Herb-Infused Version

Add fresh thyme, basil, or rosemary for deeper aroma.

Tips for Perfect Results Every Time

  • Dry scallops thoroughly before searing
  • Do not overcrowd the pan
  • Use high heat for scallops, medium heat for butter
  • Add garlic at the end to prevent burning
  • Serve immediately

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Per serving:

  • Calories: 480
  • Protein: 38g
  • Fat: 34g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Sugar: 1g

Values may vary depending on portion size.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use shrimp instead of scallops?

Yes, shrimp works well and cooks in a similar time frame.

Can I grill the lobster tails?

Absolutely. Grill lobster meat-side down first, then flip and baste with garlic butter.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes, it is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly.

Final Thoughts on Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops

Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops is a stunning seafood dish that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. With its rich garlic butter sauce and perfectly cooked seafood, this recipe transforms any meal into a special occasion 🦞

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