Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops With Fresh Herbs – A Luxurious, Restaurant-Quality Seafood Dish Made at Home
If you’re a seafood lover, this dish is the ultimate treat — rich, buttery lobster paired with tender, golden seared scallops, all bathed in a silky garlic-herb butter that tastes like something straight out of a 5-star coastal restaurant.
This is the kind of recipe that makes you pause mid-bite and say:
“YES. I would absolutely eat this.”
It’s elegant enough for special occasions like anniversaries, date nights, or holidays, yet simple enough to prepare on a quiet weekend when you want something indulgent and comforting.
The key to this dish is simplicity: high-quality seafood, fresh herbs, lemon, and plenty of rich, aromatic garlic butter. When these ingredients come together, the flavor becomes unforgettable — buttery, citrusy, savory, and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients (Full, Detailed List)
Seafood
- 2 lobster tails, split in half lengthwise
- 8 large sea scallops, patted completely dry
- Salt & pepper, to season both
Garlic Herb Butter
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or chives for extra herb flavor
Optional Extras (for serving)
- Lemon wedges
- Crusty bread or garlic toast
- Steamed vegetables
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Rice or pasta
Step-By-Step Instructions (LONG, DETAILED)
Step 1: Prepare Your Seafood
Before cooking, make sure:
- The lobster tails are properly halved so the meat is exposed.
- The scallops are patted dry — this is crucial for achieving a perfect golden crust.
- Both are lightly seasoned with salt and pepper.
This simple seasoning allows the natural sweetness of the seafood to shine.
Step 2: Melt the Garlic Butter
In a skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter.
As it starts bubbling, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant — do not let it brown.
Add:
- fresh lemon juice
- chopped parsley
- (optional) fresh herbs like thyme
This creates a rich, aromatic butter base that will flavor the seafood beautifully.
Step 3: Cook the Lobster
Place the lobster tails cut-side down in the skillet for about 3–4 minutes, letting them sear and absorb that garlic butter.
Then flip them shell-side down and spoon the melted garlic butter over the meat continuously.
Cook for another 3–5 minutes until the lobster is opaque, bright red, and juicy.
Remove from the skillet and set aside — but don’t wash the pan! The flavor inside is liquid gold.
Step 4: Sear the Scallops
Raise the heat to medium-high.
Add a tiny splash of butter or oil if needed.
Place the scallops in the hot pan and don’t move them for at least 2 minutes.
They should develop a gorgeous golden crust.
Flip and cook another 1–2 minutes until they’re opaque and slightly springy.
They should be caramelized on the outside and soft, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth on the inside.
Step 5: Combine & Serve
Return the lobster to the skillet for a final warm-through.
Spoon extra garlic-herb butter over the lobster and scallops.
Garnish with:
- more fresh parsley
- fresh lemon juice
- cracked black pepper
Serve immediately while everything is hot, glossy, and irresistible.
Why You Will Absolutely Love This Dish
Golden seared scallops — restaurant quality
Tender, buttery lobster with perfect texture
Rich garlic butter that binds the whole dish
Impressive presentation with minimal effort
Made in under 20 minutes
Flavorful, elegant, and unforgettable
What to Serve With It
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Lemon pasta
- Steamed asparagus or green beans
- Garlic bread
- Herbed rice pilaf
- A crisp salad
For drinks:
- Chardonnay
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Sparkling water with lemon
Storage
Seafood tastes best fresh, but if needed:
- Fridge: 1 day only
- Reheat: low heat with a little butter — don’t overcook or it becomes rubbery
- Freezing: not recommended

