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### **4. Step-by-Step Instructions**
Now that we have all our ingredients in place, let’s walk through the process of creating **Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops** from start to finish.
#### **Step 1: Prepare the Lobster Tails**
1. **Preheat your oven** to 400°F (200°C).
2. **Butterfly the lobster tails** by using a sharp knife to cut the top of the lobster shell lengthwise. Make sure you don’t cut all the way through, but instead, you should expose the meat.
3. **Season the lobster meat** with salt and pepper. Drizzle the meat with olive oil for a nice sear.
4. **Sear the lobster tails** in a hot skillet. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the lobster tails in the pan, shell-side down, and cook for 2–3 minutes until the shells turn bright red and the meat begins to caramelize.
5. **Finish cooking in the oven.** Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and cooked through. If you’re using a thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
#### **Step 2: Prepare the Scallops**
1. **Pat the scallops dry** with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This is important to ensure a beautiful sear.
2. **Season the scallops** with salt and pepper. You can also add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for a little extra flavor.
3. **Sear the scallops** in a separate skillet. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the scallops to the pan. Be careful not to overcrowd them; cook in batches if necessary.
4. **Cook the scallops for 2–3 minutes on each side**, or until they form a golden-brown crust. The scallops should be firm to the touch but still tender inside. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
#### **Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce**
1. **Melt the butter** in the same skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, or until fragrant.
2. **Add the white wine (optional)** and allow it to simmer for a minute to reduce slightly. This will add depth of flavor to the sauce.
3. **Add the parsley, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes** to the sauce, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for another minute until everything is well incorporated.
4. **Taste the sauce** and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if necessary.
#### **Step 4: Combine the Lobster, Scallops, and Garlic Butter**
1. **Return the lobster and scallops** to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Spoon the sauce over the seafood and cook for another 2–3 minutes, just until everything is heated through and coated in the flavorful sauce.
2. **Garnish with additional fresh parsley** and a sprinkle of lemon zest for an added burst of freshness.
3. **Serve the dish immediately**, ensuring that the lobster and scallops are generously coated with the garlic butter sauce.
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### **5. Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops**
– **Choose Fresh Seafood:** Fresh lobster and scallops will give you the best flavor and texture. If using frozen seafood, ensure it’s fully thawed and pat it dry before cooking.
– **Don’t Overcook:** Overcooking lobster or scallops can result in a rubbery texture. Always monitor the cooking time and temperature closely.
– **Use an Oven-Safe Skillet:** Using a skillet that can go from stovetop to oven will help you achieve a perfect sear and evenly cooked lobster.
– **Adjust the Sauce to Your Liking:** Garlic butter sauce can be tailored to your tastes. Add more garlic for a stronger flavor or a splash of white wine for extra richness.
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### **6. How to Serve Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops**
This luxurious seafood dish can be served as a standalone main course or paired with several delicious sides. Here are some great serving suggestions:
– **Rice or Risotto:** A creamy risotto or a simple bed of rice is perfect for soaking up the garlic butter sauce.
– **Grilled Vegetables:** Roasted or grilled asparagus, zucchini, or baby carrots are light, fresh options to balance the richness of the lobster and scallops.
– **Mashed Potatoes:** Creamy mashed potatoes or potato gratin offer a comforting, hearty side that complements the seafood perfectly.
– **Crusty Bread:** Serve the dish with a side of crusty bread to mop up any remaining garlic butter sauce.
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### **7. Health Benefits of Lobster and Scallops**
Both lobster and scallops are excellent sources of lean protein and essential nutrients, making them a great choice for a healthy meal. Here are some of the key health benefits:
– **Low in Calories:** Both lobster and scallops are low-calorie foods, making them a great option for anyone looking to eat healthy without sacrificing flavor.
– **High in Protein:** Lobster and scallops are rich in protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health.
– **Rich in Vitamins and Minerals:** These shellfish are a great source of vitamins such as B12 and minerals like zinc, selenium, and iron, all of which play important roles in the body’s immune function, red blood cell production, and overall well-being.
– **Omega-3 Fatty Acids:** Both lobster and scallops contain small amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to support heart health and reduce inflammation.
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### **8. Side Dishes to Pair with Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops**
To make the meal complete, pair your garlic butter lobster and scallops with some flavorful side dishes. Here are a few options:
– **Grilled Asparagus with Lemon:** Asparagus is a light and nutritious vegetable that pairs well with seafood. Its slight bitterness balances out the richness of the lobster and scallops.
– **Lemon Herb Rice:** Fluffy rice with lemon zest, fresh herbs, and a dash of olive oil will complement the garlic butter sauce without overpowering the main dish.
– **Crispy Roasted Potatoes:** Roasted potatoes with rosemary and garlic are always a crowd-pleaser and make a hearty addition to a seafood feast.
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### **9. Conclusion: Enjoying the Ultimate Seafood Feast**
**Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops** is a decadent dish that brings the flavors of the ocean into your kitchen, providing an unforgettable dining experience. With tender lobster, succulent scallops, and a rich garlic butter sauce, this recipe is the ultimate treat for seafood lovers. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply enjoying a luxurious meal at home, this dish is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a plate of the finest seafood you can make at home.
