Garlic Butter Lobster Tails with Seared Scallops
Description
This luxurious seafood dish combines succulent lobster tails and tender, golden-brown seared scallops, all infused with rich garlic butter. Perfect for a special occasion or an elegant weeknight dinner, it delivers restaurant-quality flavour with minimal effort. The dish balances sweetness from the seafood with aromatic garlic, a hint of lemon, and fresh herbs, creating a visually stunning and flavourful experience.
Servings
Serves: 2
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 22–25 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 lobster tails (6–8 oz each)
- 6–8 sea scallops, patted dry
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Lobster Tails: Using kitchen shears, cut the top shell of each lobster tail down the centre and gently lift the meat out. Season with salt, pepper, and a small drizzle of lemon juice.
- Make Garlic Butter: In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice and chopped parsley, then remove from heat.
- Cook Lobster Tails: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place lobster tails on a baking sheet, brush generously with garlic butter, and bake for 8–10 minutes until meat is opaque and slightly firm.
- Sear Scallops: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season scallops with salt and pepper. Sear scallops 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and drizzle with remaining garlic butter.
- Serve: Plate lobster tails and scallops together. Drizzle extra garlic butter on top and garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Ensure scallops are dry before searing to achieve a perfect golden crust.
- Do not overcook lobster or scallops to maintain tenderness.
- Adjust lemon juice for a brighter or milder citrus flavour.
Tips
- Use fresh seafood for optimal taste and texture.
- Serve with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic mashed potatoes.
- Keep garlic butter warm for drizzling over seafood when serving.
- Preheat the oven and skillet to ensure even cooking and perfect sear.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Sugar: 0g
Health Benefits
- High Protein: Seafood supports muscle growth and repair.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Promotes heart and brain health.
- Low Carb: Ideal for low-carb or ketogenic diets.
- Minerals & Vitamins: Lobster and scallops provide zinc, selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine.
Q&A
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, lobster and scallops can be prepped and stored in the refrigerator, but cook them just before serving for best texture.
Q: Can I substitute other seafood?
A: Shrimp or crab cakes can complement lobster tails, but cooking times may vary.
Q: Is this recipe keto-friendly?
A: Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in protein and healthy fats.
Q: Can garlic butter be made ahead?
A: Absolutely! Store in the fridge and warm gently before using.