Garlic Butter Lobster Scallops

This garlic butter lobster and scallops dish is all about making any dinner occasion feel special, with tender seafood nestled in a rich, fragrant sauce. I reach for this when I want to impress or give myself a restaurant meal at home.

Ingredients

• Lobster tails: provide sweet tender meat and make the meal feel luxurious Look for wild-caught tails if possible and ensure they smell fresh without any fishy aroma
• Large sea scallops: deliver a buttery bite When buying scallops choose ones that are plump and translucent Pat dry before cooking for the best texture
• Salt and black pepper: draw out natural seafood flavors Freshly cracked pepper tastes best here
• Olive oil: helps create a beautiful sear on scallops Choose extra virgin for rich flavor
• Unsalted butter: gives the sauce its creamy texture and smooth flavor Use high quality butter for best results
• Fresh garlic cloves: infuse the sauce with fragrance Mince right before adding it to the pan
• Lemon juice: brightens and balances all the richness Always use fresh lemon not bottled
• Chopped parsley: gives a fresh pop of green Use flat-leaf parsley for best flavor
• Lemon wedges: make a beautiful garnish and add another layer of zesty flavor
• Extra melted butter: for dipping is always a treat especially for special dinners

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Lobster Tails:

Use kitchen scissors to carefully cut through the top of the lobster shells Pull the lobster meat up and rest it neatly on top of the shell while keeping the base attached This gives a classic restaurant look and helps the lobster cook evenly

Sear the Scallops:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high until it shimmers Season the dry scallops with salt and pepper Place each scallop flat side down in the pan letting them cook undisturbed for about two to three minutes until a deep golden crust forms Flip with tongs and sear the second side for another two to three minutes Remove the scallops to a plate

Cook the Lobster:

In the same skillet reduce the heat slightly and add unsalted butter and freshly minced garlic Use a wooden spoon to stir for about one minute allowing the garlic to become fragrant but not burnt Lay the lobster tails flesh side down in the butter and garlic Cook for two to three minutes so the meat lightly browns Flip the tails squeeze in fresh lemon juice cover with a lid and let them gently cook for another three to four minutes until meat turns opaque and is cooked through

Combine and Finish:

Return the cooked scallops to the pan making sure they get coated with the rich garlic butter sauce Toss in chopped parsley right at the end so it stays fresh and vibrant

Save

For me the best part is watching the garlic and butter come together into that silky sauce My husband always leans in for the extra lemony pan juices and it reminds me of the first time we cooked seafood together

Storage Tips

Seafood is always best served right after cooking but if you have leftovers store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day Reheat gently over low heat so the scallops and lobster stay tender Avoid microwaving if possible to prevent rubbery textures

Ingredient Substitutions

If lobster tails are hard to find you can use large shrimp or even chunks of firm white fish like cod For scallops bay scallops can substitute but watch the cooking time as they are smaller and cook much more quickly Vegan butter will work if lactose is an issue though you might miss a tiny bit of richness

Serving Suggestions

This pairs beautifully with garlicky mashed potatoes for a comforting side Roasted asparagus or a simple green salad dressed with lemon also balance the richness For something lighter a buttery rice pilaf soaks up every drop of that garlic butter sauce

Cultural Notes

Lobster was once considered a food of the poor in some regions but now it is a classic sign of celebration The garlic butter approach borrows from French and Italian kitchens where simple sauces highlight high quality seafood Making a dish like this at home feels like bringing an upscale restaurant right into your own dining room

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I achieve a perfect sear on scallops?

Pat scallops dry before seasoning and cook in hot oil without overcrowding the pan for a golden crust.

→ How can I tell when lobster tails are cooked through?

The meat turns opaque and firm. Avoid overcooking to keep it tender and juicy.

→ What sides pair well with this seafood dish?

Garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or buttery rice pilaf complement the flavors beautifully.

→ Can I add extra flavors for variety?

A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a spicy kick. Fresh herbs like thyme work great too.

→ Should I use salted or unsalted butter?

Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt content and lets the garlic and seafood shine.