Description
Garlic Butter Lobster Tail and Scallops
Ingredients:
2 lobster tails
1/2 lb scallops
3 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp chili flakes
1 lemon
1 tbsp parsley
Salt & pepper
Steps:
Butterfly lobster tails and season generously.
Sear scallops to lock in flavor.
Pan-sear lobster tails in butter for 5 minutes total.
Infuse garlic and chili into the sauce.
Serve hot, pairing with sides.
A zesty twist on seafood!
#SpicySeafood
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Lobster: Using kitchen shears, butterfly the lobster tails by cutting through the top shell lengthwise. Gently pry the meat upwards, resting it on top of the shell. Pat dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Scallops: Ensure scallops are dry. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add scallops, ensuring they are not touching. Sear for 1.5-2 minutes per side until a golden crust forms. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the Lobster: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter. Once melted, place lobster tails in the pan, meat-side down. Cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned. Flip and cook shell-side down for another 2-3 minutes, basting constantly with the butter.
4. Create the Sauce: Add minced garlic and chili flakes to the butter in the pan. Cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
5. Finish and Serve: Return scallops to the pan to warm through. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything and toss with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
This rich seafood dish pairs beautifully with light, absorbing sides. Serve over a bed of creamy risotto, angel hair pasta, or cauliflower rice to soak up the luxurious garlic butter sauce. For a classic pairing, steamed asparagus, roasted cherry tomatoes, or a simple arugula salad provide a fresh contrast. A crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay completes the meal.
How-to Summary
Butterfly and season lobster tails. Sear scallops until golden and set aside. In the same pan, cook lobster in butter, then create a sauce with garlic and chili. Combine everything with lemon and parsley for a quick, restaurant-quality seafood feast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen lobster tails and scallops? Yes, but they must be fully thawed in the refrigerator overnight. Pat them extremely dry before cooking to ensure proper searing.
How do I know when the lobster is cooked? The lobster meat will turn opaque and white, and the internal temperature should reach 140°F (60°C). It will be firm but still tender.
What can I substitute for chili flakes? For less heat, use smoked paprika. For a different flavor profile, try a pinch of cayenne or Old Bay seasoning.
My garlic burned. What went wrong? The pan was likely too hot. Garlic burns quickly. Add it to the butter after reducing the heat and cook just until fragrant.
Can I prepare any part ahead of time? You can butterfly the lobster and dry the scallops up to an hour in advance. However, cook everything just before serving for the best texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using wet seafood: This prevents a good sear. Always pat scallops and lobster thoroughly dry with paper towels.
- Overcrowding the pan: Cook scallops in a single layer with space between them to steam, not sear.
- Overcooking the seafood: Both lobster and scallops become tough and rubbery when overcooked. Follow timing closely.
- Burning the garlic: Add it at the end of the cooking process and stir constantly for only about 30 seconds.
- Not letting the pan get hot enough: A properly preheated skillet is essential for getting a golden crust on the scallops.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Lobster Tail and Scallops recipe transforms simple ingredients into an impressive, decadent meal in minutes. The key lies in proper preparation, high heat for the perfect sear, and the simple, flavorful garlic-chili butter sauce. By following this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can reliably create a spicy, zesty seafood dish that rivals any restaurant. It’s a surefire way to elevate a weeknight dinner or celebrate a special occasion.