Garlic Butter Lobster Scallops

Name: Garlic Butter Lobster Scallops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: Fresh scallops; Lobster tail; Unsalted butter; Garlic cloves; Fresh parsley; Lemon juice

Published: February 11, 2025

by Aria

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Lobster Scallops

Luxurious Flavor: The rich combination of garlic and butter enhances the natural sweetness of the lobster and scallops, creating an elegant dish that feels indulgent.
Quick and Easy Preparation: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe adds sophistication to any meal plan.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Lobster Scallops

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Scallops: Look for dry-packed scallops for the best flavor; avoid those treated with preservatives.
Lobster Tail: Choose fresh or frozen lobster tail; ensure it’s fully defrosted before cooking.
Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness in your dish better.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is essential; chop it finely to release its robust flavor into the sauce.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to finish off the dish beautifully.
Lemon Juice: A squeeze of lemon juice brightens up the flavors and balances richness from the butter.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Garlic Butter Lobster Scallops

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Seafood

Start by cleaning the scallops under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. If using frozen lobster tail, ensure it has fully thawed before removing the shell.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter until bubbly but not browned. This creates a perfect base for infusing flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

Add finely chopped garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not browned. Stir continuously to prevent burning.

Step 4: Cook Scallops

Carefully add the scallops to the pan in a single layer. Sear them for about two minutes on each side until golden brown and opaque in color.

Step 5: Add Lobster

Once scallops are cooked through, add chopped lobster tail pieces into the skillet. Cook together for an additional three minutes until heated through.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon & Herbs

Remove from heat and squeeze lemon juice over the seafood mixture. Toss in freshly chopped parsley just before serving for enhanced flavor.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh seafood makes all the difference in flavor; opt for local markets when possible.
Avoid Overcrowding: Cook scallops in batches if necessary; overcrowding can lead them to steam instead of sear properly.
Rest Before Serving: Allow your cooked seafood to rest briefly before serving; this enhances texture as juices redistribute.

Mistakes to avoid

Using low-quality seafood: When preparing Garlic Butter Lobster Scallops, always choose fresh and high-quality seafood. Low-quality ingredients can lead to a less flavorful dish and affect the overall texture. Fresh scallops should have a sweet aroma and firm texture. Similarly, lobster should be bright in color and free from any unpleasant smells. Investing in quality seafood ensures that your dish shines and impresses those you serve.
Overcooking the scallops: It’s crucial not to overcook scallops when making Garlic Butter Lobster Scallops. Overcooked scallops become rubbery and lose their delicate flavor. Cook them just until they turn opaque and slightly golden on the edges, usually about two to three minutes per side. This brief cooking time allows the natural sweetness of the scallops to shine through while maintaining a tender texture.
Neglecting seasoning: A common mistake is under-seasoning your Garlic Butter Lobster Scallops. While garlic butter provides rich flavor, don’t forget to season with salt, pepper, or fresh herbs like parsley or chives. Proper seasoning enhances the natural flavors of both the lobster and scallops, creating a more balanced dish. Taste as you cook; adding small amounts of seasoning gradually helps achieve the perfect flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Lobster Scallops

This Garlic Butter Lobster Scallops dish is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes complement the richness of the scallops and lobster, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
Steamed Asparagus: The fresh crunch of steamed asparagus provides a delightful contrast to the buttery seafood, adding a pop of color and nutrition to your plate.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons makes a refreshing side that balances the richness of the main dish.

FAQs

FAQs about Garlic Butter Lobster Scallops

What ingredients do I need for Garlic Butter Lobster Scallops?

To prepare Garlic Butter Lobster Scallops, you will need fresh scallops, lobster meat, garlic, butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Fresh herbs like parsley can enhance the flavor as well. Make sure to select high-quality seafood for the best results. The combination of these ingredients creates a rich and savory dish that is perfect for any occasion.

How long does it take to cook Garlic Butter Lobster Scallops?

Cooking Garlic Butter Lobster Scallops is a quick process. Typically, you will need about 10 to 15 minutes to prepare and cook this dish. Start by sautéing the garlic in butter before adding the scallops and lobster. Cook until they turn golden brown and are slightly opaque. This ensures they remain tender and flavorful without overcooking.

Can I substitute other seafood in this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely substitute other seafood in your Garlic Butter Lobster Scallops recipe. Shrimp or crab meat work wonderfully as replacements. However, be mindful that cooking times may vary based on the type of seafood used. Adjust your cooking time according to your chosen seafood to maintain optimal texture and taste.

What wine pairs well with Garlic Butter Lobster Scallops?

A crisp white wine is an excellent choice for pairing with Garlic Butter Lobster Scallops. Consider options like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay; both enhance the richness of the dish without overpowering its delicate flavors. A light sparkling wine can also provide a refreshing contrast that complements the buttery notes beautifully.

Conclusion for Garlic Butter Lobster Scallops

In summary, Garlic Butter Lobster Scallops is an exquisite dish that combines succulent scallops with tender lobster in a rich garlic butter sauce. This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers versatility in serving options such as garlic mashed potatoes or steamed asparagus. Preparing this meal takes minimal time while delivering impressive results for any gathering or special occasion. By following simple steps and utilizing fresh ingredients, you can create a memorable dining experience sure to delight your guests. Embrace this easy recipe today and enjoy a gourmet meal right at home.

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📖 Recipe Card