Savor Butter-Basted Lobster Tail with Seared Scallops

Description

Indulge in a luxurious seafood experience with Butter-Basted Lobster Tail and Seared Scallops. This dish features succulent lobster tails, basted with aromatic garlic butter, paired with perfectly seared scallops that have a delicate golden crust. The rich, buttery flavors combined with a hint of citrus and herbs make this a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare at home.

Origin

This dish draws inspiration from classic French and New England coastal cuisine, where fresh seafood is enhanced with simple, high-quality ingredients like butter, garlic, and lemon. A staple in fine dining, lobster and scallops are often enjoyed together for their complementary textures and flavors.

Instructions

For the Butter-Basted Lobster Tail:

1. Prepare lobster: Using kitchen shears, cut down the top of each lobster tail and gently pull the meat out, resting it on top of the shell.
2. Season: Brush with a mix of melted butter, 1 minced garlic clove, ½ tsp paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Broil or pan-sear:
   • Broil: Place tails on a baking sheet and broil at 230°C (450°F) for 8–10 minutes, basting with butter halfway through.
   • Pan-sear: Heat 1 tbsp butter in a pan over medium heat and cook the tails for 3–4 minutes per side, basting continuously.
4. Finish: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the lobster before serving.

For the Seared Scallops:

1. Pat scallops dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat oil: In a skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tbsp olive oil until shimmering.
3. Sear scallops: Place scallops in the pan and cook undisturbed for 2 minutes until golden brown. Flip and add 2 tbsp butter, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1 tsp lemon juice.
4. Baste & finish: Spoon butter over scallops for another 1–2 minutes, then remove from heat.

Tips for Success

• Dry scallops completely before searing to get a crispy crust.
• Use clarified butter (ghee) to prevent burning.
• Don’t overcook the lobster—cook until just opaque.
• Use fresh seafood for the best flavor.

Recommendations

• Serve with garlic mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, or a light citrus salad.
• Pair with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.

Nutrition (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Sugars: 1g