Introduction to Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops Medley
As a busy mom, I know how challenging weeknight dinners can be. That’s why I love making this Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops Medley. It’s not just a quick solution; it’s a dish that truly impresses! Imagine serving up tender lobster tails paired with beautifully seared scallops, all glistening in a rich garlic butter sauce.
This dish feels like a treat but can be pulled together in no time. Perfect for when unexpected guests drop by or when you want to pamper yourself after a long day. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe at your fingertips!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops Medley
There’s something magical about the Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops Medley. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, even on the busiest weeknights. The rich flavors from the garlic butter complement the seafood perfectly, delivering a gourmet experience at home. Plus, the dish comes together in just 35 minutes. In a nutshell, it offers a delightful balance of simplicity and taste that will have your family reaching for seconds!
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops Medley
Creating the Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops Medley starts with gathering some simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful dish:
- Lobster tails: Look for fresh or thawed varieties. They provide a sweet and delicate flavor.
- Large sea scallops: These should be patted dry. They need to be fresh for that perfect sear.
- Unsalted butter: A rich base for the sauce, it enhances the other flavors without adding extra salt.
- Garlic: Freshly minced for a vibrant aroma and taste. It’s the hero of our dish!
- Fresh lemon juice: Brightens up the seafood, balancing the richness of the butter.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor touch to the meal.
- Paprika: For a hint of smoky warmth. It also gives the dish a lovely color.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring everything together. Use them to taste!
- Lemon wedges: Perfect for serving alongside. A squeeze of lemon brings everything to life.
For those who prefer not to use butter, you can experiment with olive oil for a lighter version.
If you can’t find fresh scallops, shrimp could be an excellent substitute. Just cut the cooking time as they cook faster.
Don’t forget, detailed measurements are at the bottom of the article, available for printing. So, you’ll have everything you need when you’re ready to whip up this lovely dish!
How to Make Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops Medley
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into making the Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops Medley. This part is where the magic happens. Just follow these clear steps, and soon your kitchen will be filled with delicious aromas!
Preparing the Lobster Tails
Preheat the Oven
First thing’s first: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures your lobster cooks evenly. If you skip this step, the lobster might turn rubbery instead of tender. So, let that oven warm up while you prepare the rest of the dish!
Searing the Scallops
Preparing the Skillet
While the oven heats up, grab your skillet. Make sure it’s nice and hot before you add the scallops. Also, it’s vital to pat the scallops dry using a paper towel. This simple trick helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust. If they’re wet, they won’t sear properly.
Once dry, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Then, add the scallops in a single layer. Remember, don’t overcrowd the pan! Sear them for about 2 minutes on each side. You want that lovely crust to form, so keep an eye on them.
Making the Garlic Butter Sauce
Adding Flavors
After your scallops are beautifully seared, remove them from the skillet. Now, lower the heat to medium and melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Toss in your minced garlic, and sauté it for about 30 seconds. This is where the aroma will tantalize your senses.
Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it can turn bitter. Once it’s fragrant, return the scallops to the skillet and add the fresh lemon juice. Toss them gently to coat in that rich garlic butter sauce.
Baking the Lobster
Final Touches
Now that your scallops are ready, let’s focus on the lobster. Place the split lobster tails on a baking sheet, shell side down. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter from the skillet over the tails. This step is key for flavor!
Bake the lobster in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the meat is opaque and cooked through. If you’re unsure, a quick poke with a fork should show tender meat easily separating from the shell.
Plating Your Dish
Garnishing
Once your lobster is beautifully baked, it’s time to plate! Place the lobster tails on a serving dish alongside your scallops. Drizzle any leftover garlic butter over the top for that extra shine and flavor.
Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for color and a touch of freshness. Serve with lemon wedges on the side. The vibrant presentation will have everyone at the table excited to dig in!
Tips for Success
- Always buy the freshest seafood you can find; it makes a world of difference.
- Don’t rush the searing process; a hot skillet is key to a perfect crust.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as you go—don’t be afraid to make it your own!
- Use a meat thermometer for the lobster to avoid overcooking.
- Prep everything in advance to make the cooking process smoother.
Equipment Needed
- Oven: A must for baking the lobster tails. Any standard oven will do.
- Skillet: A non-stick skillet works great, but cast iron gives a lovely sear.
- Baking sheet: Use any flat oven-safe dish for the lobster.
- Meat thermometer: Optional, but helpful to ensure perfectly cooked seafood.
Variations for Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops Medley
- Cajun Twist: Stir in some Cajun seasoning to your garlic butter for a spicy kick.
- Herb Lover’s Delight: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or dill to brighten the flavors.
- Vegetable Medley: Add steamed asparagus or zucchini for a colorful and nutritious side.
- Garlic Parmesan Upgrade: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the lobster and scallops before baking for a cheesy finish.
- Gluten-Free Substitutions: This dish is naturally gluten-free, but ensure that any added sauces comply with dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops Medley
- Side Dishes: Pair with garlic mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the seafood perfectly.
- Presentation: Serve on a beautiful platter garnished with lemon slices and extra parsley for an elegant touch.
FAQs about Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops Medley
You might have some questions about making the Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops Medley. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Here are a few common queries that should help clarify any concerns.
Can I use frozen seafood?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the lobster tails and scallops completely before cooking. A quick soak in cold water works wonders.
How do I know when the scallops are done?
They should be golden-brown on the outside and opaque in the center. A quick poke with a fork can help check if they’re tender.
What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
You can substitute with garlic powder, but fresh garlic offers a flavor profile that is difficult to replicate. If you must, use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While the dish is best served fresh, you can pre-sear scallops and pre-cook lobster tails. Store separately in the fridge and combine before serving.
What sides can I serve with this medley?
Garlic mashed potatoes, a refreshing salad, or even crusty bread would be perfect for soaking up that delicious garlic butter sauce!
Final Thoughts
Cooking the Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops Medley isn’t just about the food; it’s about the experience. This dish transforms an ordinary evening into a special occasion. Each buttery, garlicky bite is a reminder that we can create little moments of joy in our busy lives. I hope you feel a sense of pride as you serve this to your loved ones, knowing you’ve whipped up something extraordinarily delicious. Trust me, seeing their smiles will make all the effort worth it. So, gather your ingredients and let’s make some wonderful memories together!
Print
Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops Medley: A Delightful Treat!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking and Sautéing
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delightful and flavorful dish combining tender lobster tails and seared scallops in a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 lobster tails, thawed and split in half lengthwise
- 12 large sea scallops, patted dry
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the split lobster tails on a baking sheet, shell side down. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once hot, add the scallops in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for about 2 minutes on each side, until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown.
- Return the scallops to the skillet, add lemon juice, and then toss until the scallops are well coated in the garlic butter sauce. Remove from heat.
- Pour any remaining garlic butter from the skillet over the lobster tails. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and cooked through.
- Once the lobster is done, remove them from the oven and plate alongside the scallops. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter over the top, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- Ensure that the scallops are dry for a better sear.
- Adjust the seasoning as per your taste preference.
- Cooking times may vary based on the size of the lobster tails and scallops.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 675
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 840mg
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 65g
- Cholesterol: 215mg
