Succulent Garlic Butter Lobster & Scallops with Herbs – A Seafood Lover’s Dream
For a truly indulgent and elegant seafood dish, Garlic Butter Lobster & Scallops with Herbs is hard to beat. This dish brings together tender lobster tails and sweet, buttery scallops, cooked in a rich garlic herb butter sauce that elevates every bite. Perfect for a special dinner, romantic meal, or festive occasion, this recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare yet delivers restaurant-quality flavor in your own kitchen.
The key to success lies in fresh seafood, high-quality butter, and fragrant herbs. With a few thoughtful steps, you can create a dish that’s luxurious, flavorful, and absolutely melt-in-your-mouth.
Ingredients
Seafood:
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2 lobster tails (about 6–8 ounces each)
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12 large sea scallops, patted dry
Garlic Herb Butter Sauce:
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
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1 teaspoon lemon zest
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
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1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
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½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnish:
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Lemon wedges
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Extra fresh herbs
Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails
Start by cutting the top shell of the lobster tails lengthwise with kitchen scissors. Gently lift the meat out, keeping it on top of the shell. This technique, called “butterflying,” ensures even cooking and creates an elegant presentation.
Pat the lobster meat dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper. Set aside while you prepare the scallops and sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Scallops
Rinse the scallops and pat them thoroughly dry. Removing excess moisture is essential for achieving a perfect sear. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper. A dry scallop surface ensures a golden, caramelized crust during cooking.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Herb Butter
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, and thyme. This aromatic butter will infuse the seafood with bright, savory flavors.
Set aside about half of the butter for serving, keeping it warm.
Step 4: Cook the Lobster
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the lobster tails shell-side down and sear for about 2–3 minutes per side until the meat is opaque and cooked through. Lobster cooks quickly, so keep a close eye to avoid overcooking, which can make the meat rubbery.
Once done, remove the lobster tails and set aside. Drizzle a small amount of garlic herb butter over the meat to keep it moist and flavorful.
Step 5: Sear the Scallops
In the same skillet, add a little butter or oil and heat until shimmering. Add the scallops, leaving space between them to avoid steaming. Sear for 1–2 minutes per side until a deep golden-brown crust forms. The scallops should be slightly translucent in the center and tender.
Once seared, remove the scallops and place them alongside the lobster tails.
Step 6: Combine and Finish
Pour the remaining garlic herb butter over the lobster and scallops. Spoon the sauce over the seafood for extra flavor. Garnish with additional fresh parsley and thyme, and serve with lemon wedges for a bright, fresh touch.
This dish pairs beautifully with buttery mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light salad. A crisp white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, elevates the meal even further.
Tips for Perfect Lobster & Scallops
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Use fresh or high-quality frozen seafood for the best flavor.
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Pat scallops and lobster dry to ensure a golden sear.
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Don’t overcook—both lobster and scallops cook quickly and can become rubbery if left too long.
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Fresh herbs brighten the dish and complement the richness of the butter.
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Serve immediately for optimal flavor and texture.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Succulent garlic butter lobster and scallops are a show-stopping meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare at home. The combination of rich butter, fragrant herbs, tender seafood, and a hint of citrus creates a dish that feels indulgent and celebratory. It’s perfect for impressing guests, enjoying a romantic dinner, or simply treating yourself to a luxurious seafood experience.
Every bite delivers a delicate balance of buttery richness, sweet seafood, and herbaceous brightness, making this recipe a timeless favorite for seafood lovers.