Succulent Garlic Butter Lobster & Scallops with Herbs
A rich, restaurant-style seafood dish featuring tender lobster and scallops in a fragrant garlic herb butter sauce. Perfect for special occasions or an indulgent dinner at home.
Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
Seafood
- 2 lobster tails (about 6–8 oz each)
- 8–10 large sea scallops (cleaned and patted dry)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garlic Herb Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon fresh chives, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Serving
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Small saucepan (optional, for melting butter)
- Kitchen tongs or spatula
- Basting brush (optional)
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Lobster
- Using kitchen shears, cut the top shell of the lobster tails lengthwise to expose the meat.
- Loosen the meat from the shell slightly and season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Prepare the Scallops
- Pat scallops dry with paper towels (removes moisture for better sear).
- Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Make Garlic Herb Butter
- In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter over low heat.
- Stir in minced garlic, parsley, thyme, chives (if using), lemon juice, and red pepper flakes.
- Keep warm on low heat; do not burn the garlic.
Step 4: Cook the Lobster Tails
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place lobster tails meat-side down and sear for 2–3 minutes, then flip.
- Baste with garlic herb butter and cook an additional 2–3 minutes, or until lobster meat is opaque and firm.
Step 5: Cook the Scallops
- In the same skillet (or a separate one), add a little more butter or oil.
- Sear scallops over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side until a golden crust forms. Avoid overcooking—they should be tender inside.
- Baste with garlic herb butter during the last minute of cooking.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
- Transfer lobster tails and scallops to a serving plate.
- Drizzle generously with the remaining garlic herb butter from the pan.
- Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs. Serve immediately.
Tips for Best Results
- Do not overcrowd the pan; sear in batches if necessary to get a good crust.
- Use unsalted butter to control seasoning.
- Serve with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- For an extra touch, finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.
If you want, I can also make a 30-minute one-pan version that cooks lobster and scallops together with a side of vegetables for minimal cleanup.
Do you want me to do that?