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Succulent lobster tail and seared sea scallops are drenched in a silky garlic butter sauce. This dish is fast to prepare but tastes like fine dining!
⏱️ Prep & Cook Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 15–20 minutes
- Total time: ~30–35 minutes
🧰 Equipment Needed
- Sharp kitchen shears
- Cast iron or stainless steel skillet
- Tongs
- Small saucepan
- Basting spoon
- Paper towels
- Instant-read thermometer (optional)
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 2)
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Lobster tails | 2 (5–6 oz each) |
| Sea scallops (large) | 6–8 |
| Unsalted butter | 6 tbsp (divided) |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
| Lemon zest | ½ tsp |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| White wine (optional) | 2 tbsp |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | to taste |
| Black pepper | to taste |
| Red pepper flakes | pinch (optional) |
🧾 Ingredient Notes
- Lobster tails: Thawed if previously frozen. Wild-caught preferred for flavor.
- Scallops: Use dry-packed scallops for best sear—pat them very dry.
- Butter: High-quality butter makes the sauce shine.
- Wine: A splash of dry white wine adds depth but can be skipped.
👨🍳 Instructions
🦞 1. Prepare the Lobster
- Using kitchen shears, cut the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise to expose the meat.
- Gently lift the meat up and over the shell, keeping it attached at the base. Set aside.
🔥 2. Sear the Scallops
- Pat scallops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat 1 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear scallops 1.5–2 minutes per side without moving until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
🧈 3. Cook the Lobster & Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp butter and garlic. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add lobster tails, flesh side down. Sear 2 minutes, then flip.
- Add lemon juice, zest, and wine (if using). Baste lobster with the garlicky butter for 3–4 minutes until opaque and curled.
- Add remaining 3 tbsp butter and red pepper flakes. Stir in parsley. Return scallops to pan for 1–2 minutes to warm through and coat with sauce.
📊 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~430 kcal |
| Protein | 36g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 3g |
| Sugar | <1g |
| Sodium | 640mg |
Estimated. Varies with lobster size and butter used.
💡 Tips
- Scallop sear secret: Dry thoroughly and use high heat for golden crust.
- Don’t overcook lobster: It turns rubbery—look for opaque flesh and curling tails.
- Butter basting enhances flavor—tilt the pan and spoon the sauce over frequently.
- Serve hot, directly from skillet for full effect.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Over creamy mashed potatoes or garlic pasta
- With roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach
- Crusty bread to mop up the sauce!
🔄 Variations
- Add shrimp for a trio seafood plate.
- Spicy version: Increase red pepper flakes or add a pinch of Cajun seasoning.
- Herbed butter: Mix butter with tarragon, thyme, or basil before cooking.
