Succulent Garlic Butter Lobster & Scallops with Herbs is an elegant seafood dish that feels restaurant-quality yet can easily be prepared at home. Tender lobster tails and perfectly seared scallops are coated in a rich garlic butter sauce infused with fresh herbs, creating a luxurious meal full of delicate flavors.
This dish is perfect for romantic dinners, special celebrations, or whenever you want to enjoy a gourmet seafood experience. The natural sweetness of lobster and scallops pairs beautifully with the savory richness of butter, garlic, and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients
For the Seafood
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2 lobster tails
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10–12 large sea scallops
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Garlic Herb Butter Sauce
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
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1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried)
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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½ teaspoon paprika
Optional Garnish
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Lemon wedges
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Fresh parsley
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Red pepper flakes
Instructions
1. Prepare the Lobster Tails
Using kitchen scissors, cut along the top shell of each lobster tail lengthwise. Gently pull the meat upward and rest it on top of the shell while keeping it attached at the base.
Season lightly with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika.
2. Prepare the Scallops
Pat the scallops dry using paper towels. Removing excess moisture ensures they develop a beautiful golden crust when seared.
Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
3. Sear the Scallops
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Place the scallops in the pan, leaving space between them. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until a golden crust forms. Remove and set aside.
4. Cook the Lobster
In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter and place the lobster tails meat-side down.
Cook for 4–5 minutes, spooning the melted butter over the lobster until the meat becomes opaque and tender.
Remove from the skillet and set aside.
5. Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter
Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining butter to the skillet.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add lemon juice, parsley, thyme, and paprika. Stir well to combine.
6. Combine and Serve
Return the scallops to the skillet and gently coat them with the garlic butter sauce.
Plate the lobster tails and scallops together. Spoon extra garlic herb butter over the seafood.
Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon wedges, and optional red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
This elegant seafood dish pairs beautifully with:
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Garlic mashed potatoes
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Buttered pasta or linguine
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Steamed asparagus or broccoli
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Fresh garden salad
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Crusty bread for soaking up the garlic butter sauce
Tips for Perfect Lobster & Scallops
Dry scallops thoroughly
Moisture prevents proper searing.
Use high heat for scallops
A hot pan creates the signature golden crust.
Avoid overcooking lobster
Overcooked lobster becomes tough and rubbery.
Use fresh herbs when possible
Fresh herbs enhance the flavor of the butter sauce.
Variations
Creamy Garlic Lobster & Scallops
Add ¼ cup heavy cream to the butter sauce for a richer dish.
Spicy Seafood Version
Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce.
Wine Garlic Sauce
Add a splash of white wine to the skillet before adding butter.
Mediterranean Style
Add capers and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheating:
Reheat gently in a skillet with a little butter over low heat.
Freezing:
Freezing is not recommended because seafood texture may change.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Elegant restaurant-style seafood dish
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Rich garlic butter flavor with fresh herbs
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Quick cooking time
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Perfect for special occasions
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Impresses guests with minimal effort
Succulent Garlic Butter Lobster & Scallops with Herbs combines two luxurious seafood favorites into one unforgettable dish. With tender lobster, perfectly seared scallops, and a fragrant garlic herb butter sauce, this recipe delivers gourmet flavor that turns any meal into a special occasion.