Introduction
Indulge in a delectable seafood feast with this exquisite recipe featuring succulent lobster tails and perfectly seared scallops. This dish is perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to a gourmet dining experience right at home.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
**For the Lobster Tails:**
– 2 lobster tails (6–8 ounces each)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
**For the Scallops:**
– 8 large sea scallops
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time
Approximately 15 minutes.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Enjoy the delicious flavors of the ocean with this elegant dish, your guests will surely be impressed! Serve immediately for the best experience, and don’t forget to include some lemon wedges for that extra zest.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Lobster Tails
– Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or set the broiler to high.
– Using kitchen scissors, carefully cut down the middle of the lobster tail shell, stopping just before the tail fin to avoid cutting through.
– Gently pull the lobster meat out of the shell, keeping it attached at the base, and rest the meat on top of the shell, creating a “butterfly” effect.
– In a small bowl, mix 4 tablespoons of melted butter, 2 minced cloves of garlic, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
– Brush this mixture generously over the lobster meat.
– Place the prepared lobster tails on a baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the meat becomes opaque and is fully cooked through.
Prepare the Scallops
– Use paper towels to pat the 8 large sea scallops dry, ensuring they are free of excess moisture; season both sides of the scallops with salt and pepper.
– Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
– Add the seasoned scallops to the skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded, and sear for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust.
– In the last minute of cooking, add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 minced clove of garlic to the skillet.
– Spoon the melted garlic butter over the scallops as they finish cooking for added flavor.
Serve
– Plate the baked lobster tails alongside the golden-brown seared scallops for an impressive presentation.
– Garnish the dish with additional chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
– Serve immediately, optionally including lemon wedges on the side for extra zest.
Notes
Tip for Cooking Lobster
– Be careful not to overcook the lobster, as it can become tough. Look for a temperature of 140°F (60°C) for perfect doneness.
Tip for Scallops
– Ensure the scallops are dry before cooking them to achieve a nice sear, as excess moisture can prevent browning.
Serving Suggestion
– This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light, refreshing cocktail for a complete dining experience.
Cook techniques
Preparing Lobster Tails
Cutting the lobster tails properly is essential for even cooking. Use kitchen scissors to make a clean cut down the middle of the shell, ensuring you don’t cut all the way through. Pull the meat out gently and rest it on top of the shell for presentation and optimal heat exposure.
Brushing with Garlic Butter
Combining melted butter with garlic, parsley, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper creates a flavorful basting mixture. Brush this mixture over the lobster meat to infuse it with rich flavors as it bakes.
Baking Lobster Tails
Bake the lobster tails in a preheated oven or under the broiler at high heat for a brief period. This quick cooking method helps achieve a tender and juicy texture while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Preparing Scallops
Patting the scallops dry is crucial to achieving a nice sear. Moisture can hinder browning, so ensure they are well-dried before seasoning with salt and pepper.
Searing Scallops
Heat olive oil over medium-high heat to achieve a golden-brown crust on the scallops. Sear them for about 2 minutes on each side, and avoid overcrowding the skillet to maintain high temperature and proper cooking.
Finishing with Garlic Butter
Adding unsalted butter and minced garlic during the last minute of cooking enhances the flavor of the scallops. Spoon the melted garlic butter over them for added richness.
Plating the Dish
Serve the baked lobster tails alongside the seared scallops for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for an appealing finish.
FAQ
What is the best way to tell if lobster tails are fully cooked?
Lobster tails are fully cooked when the meat is opaque and firm to the touch, typically taking about 12-15 minutes in the oven at 425°F (220°C).
How do I avoid overcooking scallops?
Sear scallops for about 2 minutes per side without moving them around too much. They are done when they form a golden crust and feel firm to the touch.
Can I use frozen lobster tails and scallops?
Yes, you can use frozen lobster tails and scallops. Make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking for optimal results.
What can I serve with lobster tails and scallops?
Side dishes like garlic mashed potatoes, asparagus, or a fresh salad complement lobster tails and scallops beautifully.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven to avoid drying them out.
Conclusion
The combination of lobster tails and seared scallops results in a luxurious seafood dish that is sure to impress. The rich flavors of the buttery lobster paired with the perfectly cooked scallops create a delightful dining experience. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great choice for special occasions or romantic dinners.
Herb-Butter Grilled Shrimp
Try grilling shrimp with a similar herb-butter mixture for a tasty twist. Combine unsalted butter, garlic, lemon juice, and your choice of fresh herbs for a flavorful marinade before grilling.
Garlic Lemon Clam Pasta
Use the same garlic and lemon flavors in a pasta dish with clams. Sauté garlic in olive oil, add fresh clams, and toss with pasta and parsley for a light yet satisfying meal.
Seafood Paella
Incorporate lobster and scallops into a traditional seafood paella. Add saffron, rice, and a variety of seafood for a vibrant, one-pan dish that diverges from classic flavors.
Stuffed Crab Shells
Mix crab meat with butter, garlic, and herbs for a delicious stuffing. Bake in crab shells or any shellfish shells for an elegant appetizer.
Citrus Ceviche
Prepare a citrus ceviche with scallops. Marinate scallops in lime juice and mix with diced avocado, tomatoes, and cilantro for a refreshing and zesty dish.
Butter Poached Lobster Risotto
Create a creamy risotto featuring butter-poached lobster pieces. Infuse the risotto with garlic and finish with parsley for a rich and decadent meal.
