GARLIC BUTTER LOBSTER AND SCALLOPS

Transform your dinner into a culinary masterpiece with this delightful recipe for lobster tail and scallops, paired with a tangy lemon orzo. Perfect for an intimate dinner or a special celebration, this dish brings the elegance of a fine dining experience to your home.

Succulent lobster tails, golden seared scallops, and a rich garlic butter sauce come together in a symphony of flavors to create an unforgettable meal.

---

Ingredients

For Lobster Tails & Garlic Butter:

• 20 oz (2) lobster tails
• 1/2 cup butter
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 heads garlic
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 onion
• Fresh parsley (for topping)

For Scallops & Lemon Orzo:

• 8 scallops
• 2 tbsp garlic butter
• 1 cup orzo
• 1 cup seafood stock
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 4 tbsp Parmesan cheese
• 4 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt & pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (for topping)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

---

Instructions

Prepare the Garlic and Onion:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Trim 1/2 inch off the top of each garlic head to expose the cloves, and remove loose papery skins.
2. Drizzle each garlic head with 1 tbsp olive oil, wrap in foil, and place on a baking sheet.
3. Cut the onion into wedges, leaving the base intact. Wrap it in foil with a drizzle of olive oil and add it to the baking sheet.
4. Roast for 40-60 minutes, until the garlic is soft and golden and the onion is tender.

Make the Garlic Butter:

1. Allow the butter to soften while the garlic and onion roast.
2. Squeeze roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and mash them into the softened butter with salt. Mix until smooth.

Cook the Scallops:

1. Melt 2 tbsp of prepared garlic butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add scallops, ensuring they are not crowded. Sear for 1-2 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Orzo:

1. Deglaze the skillet with white wine, scraping up browned bits.
2. Reduce slightly, then add orzo and seafood stock. Simmer for 9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is al dente.

Prepare the Lobster Tails:

1. Split the top of each lobster shell using kitchen scissors, and gently lift the meat to rest on top of the shell.
2. Place tails on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the shells turn red and meat is opaque. Avoid overcooking.

Finish the Orzo:

1. Stir lemon juice into the cooked orzo, then fold in the scallops, Parmesan, and parsley.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.

Serve:

1. Arrange lobster tails over a bed of lemon orzo and scallops.
2. Garnish with roasted onion, melted garlic butter, fresh parsley, and lemon wedges.

---

Tips for Success

• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh seafood for optimal flavor and texture. Thaw frozen items thoroughly and pat them dry before cooking.
• Precise Cooking: Sear scallops over medium to medium-high heat for a golden crust without overcooking. Cook lobster until the meat is opaque but tender.

---

Variations

• Citrus Twist: Add lemon or lime zest to the garlic butter for extra brightness, or drizzle fresh juice over the dish before serving.
• Herb-Infused Butter: Mix in thyme, dill, or tarragon for a unique twist. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

---

Enjoy!

Savor the luxurious flavors of garlic butter lobster and scallops in this beautifully crafted dish. It's a restaurant-worthy experience you can create in your own kitchen. Whether for a date night or a special celebration, this recipe is sure to impress!