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Introducition
Have you ever craved a luxurious seafood dinner without the hassle of a long prep time? This garlic butter lobster and scallops dish brings restaurant-quality flavor right into your kitchen — no reservations needed.
One of the best things about this recipe is how effortlessly it comes together. Whether you’re preparing a special date night dinner or just treating yourself to an elegant weeknight meal, this easy restaurant-quality seafood scampi delivers big on both flavor and presentation. In just about 15 minutes, you’ll have a gourmet lobster shrimp scallop sauté recipe ready to impress.
You’ll love how the richness of the lemon garlic butter seafood sauté highlights the natural sweetness of the lobster, shrimp, and scallops without overpowering them. It’s a true showcase of fresh seafood at its best. Plus, if you’re wondering how to enjoy seafood that’s both keto-friendly and gluten-free, you’re in luck — this dish naturally checks both boxes.
And let’s not forget versatility. Thinking about using white wine to elevate the sauce? Want to substitute olive oil for butter for a lighter touch? This recipe easily adapts to fit your tastes and pantry.
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “What’s the best way to cook lobster tails without overcooking?” — this method keeps everything tender, juicy, and full of bright, savory flavor. It’s the kind of meal you’ll come back to again and again.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops
To create this irresistible gourmet lobster shrimp scallop sauté recipe, you’ll need a few fresh ingredients that bring out the best in every bite. Using quality seafood and a few simple pantry staples ensures your lemon garlic butter seafood sauté tastes just as rich and vibrant as any restaurant dish.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 small lobster tails, meat removed from shell and cut into 1-inch chunks (fresh or frozen and thawed)
- ½ lb. large shrimp, shelled and deveined, tails on
(Tip: Check out how to devein shrimp for sautéed dishes if you need a quick guide!) - ½ lb. sea scallops, quartered
(Using fresh vs. frozen scallops in sauté recipes can affect texture — fresh is ideal but frozen works if properly thawed.) - 1½ sticks unsalted butter
(When choosing the best butter for seafood dishes, unsalted lets you control the seasoning perfectly.) - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
(A perfect butter and olive oil seafood combination for rich flavor and smooth sautéing.) - 2 shallots, finely minced
(Need help? Here’s how to mince shallots for sautéed seafood.) - 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 fresh lemon
(Adds brightness to the rich butter sauce.) - Kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon Italian parsley, chopped, for garnish
(A fresh Italian parsley garnish for seafood adds a beautiful pop of color and flavor.)
Every ingredient here plays a role in creating a perfectly balanced, elegant seafood sauté that’s quick enough for busy nights but special enough for celebrations.
Instructions: How to Make Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops
Creating an easy restaurant-quality seafood scampi at home is simpler than you might think. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a quick 15-minute seafood dinner recipe that’s as stunning as it is delicious.
1. Warm the Butter and Olive Oil
In a large sauté pan over medium heat, add the unsalted butter and extra virgin olive oil. Let the butter melt gently, creating a rich base for your seafood sauté.
Pro Tip: A butter and olive oil seafood combination helps prevent the butter from burning while adding extra flavor.
2. Sauté the Shallots and Garlic
Once the butter is melted, add the minced shallots. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring occasionally until they become soft and fragrant. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Be careful not to let the garlic brown — a light golden color is perfect.
Quick Note: If you’re wondering how to prevent garlic from burning in sauté, keeping the heat moderate and stirring frequently makes all the difference.
3. Add the Lobster, Shrimp, and Scallops
Next, gently add the chunks of lobster meat, shrimp, and quartered scallops to the pan.
Sauté for about 2 minutes, turning the seafood several times to ensure even cooking.
If you want to add a splash of white wine for extra depth, this is a great moment. A seafood sauté with shallots and white wine brings a beautiful, aromatic complexity.
4. Season and Brighten
Sprinkle kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper over the seafood.
Squeeze in the juice of one fresh lemon to add brightness and balance the richness of the butter.
5. Serve and Garnish
Once the seafood is just cooked through — tender, juicy, and slightly opaque — remove it from the pan. Arrange it on an attractive platter or divide onto individual plates.
Finish with a sprinkle of chopped Italian parsley for a pop of color and a fresh herbaceous note.
Pro Tips and Variations for the Perfect Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops
Cooking seafood at home can feel intimidating, but a few simple techniques make all the difference. Here’s how to guarantee your gourmet lobster shrimp scallop sauté recipe turns out perfectly every time — plus a few creative twists to make it your own.
Pro Tips
- Don’t Overcook the Seafood:
Lobster, shrimp, and scallops cook quickly — usually in just about 2–3 minutes. Overcooking can make them rubbery. If you’ve ever asked, “What’s the best way to cook lobster tails without overcooking?” the secret is high heat, short cook time, and constant attention. - Use a Hot Pan:
Make sure your butter and olive oil are hot (but not smoking) before adding the seafood. This helps you get that light, flavorful sear seen in the best pan-seared scallops with garlic and lemon. - Minimize Stirring:
Letting the seafood sit undisturbed for a few seconds in the pan helps it develop a gorgeous golden color — essential for flavor and visual appeal. - Fresh vs. Frozen Seafood:
Fresh seafood usually yields the best texture. If using frozen, be sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
Variations
- Spicy Kick:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic if you love a bit of heat in your lemon garlic butter seafood sauté. - Creamy Twist:
Stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream just before serving for a silkier, richer sauce. - Olive Oil Substitute:
Wondering, “Can I substitute olive oil for butter in seafood sauté?” You absolutely can! Using mostly olive oil and less butter makes the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor. - Pasta Option:
Toss the finished seafood and sauce with linguine or angel hair pasta for a heartier meal that feels like a special occasion dinner.
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops
When you bring this garlic butter lobster and scallops dish to the table, you’re already halfway to creating an unforgettable meal.
Here are a few ways to serve it beautifully and round out the experience.
Make It a Full Gourmet Experience
Serve your gourmet lobster shrimp scallop sauté recipe with a simple side of steamed asparagus, sautéed spinach, or roasted broccolini. The fresh greens balance the richness of the seafood sauté perfectly.
For a more indulgent plate, pair it with buttery mashed potatoes or a creamy risotto. These sides soak up the luscious lemon garlic butter seafood sauté sauce and make every bite even more luxurious.
Comforting Southern Pairing
For a soulful contrast to the bright, buttery seafood, serve this dish with Best Southern Candied Yams. The caramelized sweetness of the yams balances the savory garlic butter sauce beautifully. While not keto-friendly, this pairing is perfect for holiday feasts or when you’re craving a touch of Southern comfort.
Keep It Light and Keto-Friendly
Looking for a low-carb option? A crisp arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette keeps the meal feeling fresh and light.
Because this recipe is naturally a keto-friendly seafood recipe, pairing it with fresh veggies helps maintain a beautiful balance without adding unnecessary carbs.
Add a Touch of Elegance
If you’re planning a date night or special occasion dinner, create an elegant seafood platter by adding a few extras:
Think pan-seared scallops on one side, butter-poached shrimp on the other, and maybe a few slices of lemon for garnish. It’s a showstopper presentation that feels effortless but looks impressive.
Quick Tip: Wondering what to serve with lobster and scallops for wine? A chilled glass of white wine — like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay — elevates the flavors without overpowering the seafood.
For a Cozy Weeknight Meal
If you’re aiming for an easy but satisfying dinner, toss the seafood and sauce with cooked pasta for a quick seafood pasta night.
This weeknight lobster and shrimp sauté with scallops is ready in just minutes but tastes like you spent hours preparing it.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops Recipe
Bringing the flavors of a fine-dining seafood dish into your own kitchen has never been easier.
This garlic butter lobster and scallops recipe offers everything you could want — rich, buttery flavor, tender seafood, and a quick, stress-free cooking process. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion, planning a cozy date night, or simply craving a delicious change from the usual weeknight meals, this dish fits beautifully.
In just about 15 minutes, you’ll have a quick 15-minute seafood dinner recipe that feels luxurious without the fuss. Plus, with natural flexibility — like the option to create a seafood sauté with shallots and white wine or swap in olive oil for a lighter touch — it’s easy to tailor this dish to your taste.
If you’ve been searching for the perfect easy restaurant-quality seafood scampi or a truly show-stopping gourmet lobster shrimp scallop sauté recipe, you’ve just found it.
Simple, elegant, and absolutely irresistible — this is a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Ready to savor the best homemade seafood sauté? Let’s get cooking.
FAQs About Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops
What’s the best way to cook lobster tails without overcooking?
The key is using medium heat and keeping a close eye on the seafood. In this recipe, lobster chunks cook in just about 2–3 minutes. Turning them gently in the lemon garlic butter seafood sauté ensures they stay tender and juicy without getting rubbery.
Can I use frozen lobster tails or shrimp?
Yes, you can! Fresh seafood is ideal for the best texture, but frozen lobster tails and shrimp work wonderfully if properly thawed and patted dry before cooking. This helps avoid excess water that could thin the sauce.
Can I substitute olive oil for butter in seafood sauté?
You can! If you prefer a lighter dish or are looking for a dairy-free option, using mostly olive oil works well. The butter and olive oil seafood combination in the original recipe adds richness, but adjusting the ratio won’t sacrifice flavor.
How to devein shrimp for sautéed dishes?
After removing the shell, use a small paring knife to make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp. Gently pull out the dark vein and rinse the shrimp under cold water. Deveining improves both the appearance and taste of your gourmet lobster shrimp scallop sauté recipe.
Is this seafood sauté gluten-free or keto-friendly?
Absolutely. With no flour or breadcrumbs in the ingredients, this gluten-free gourmet dinner naturally fits a keto lifestyle too. It’s a perfect keto-friendly seafood recipe packed with protein, healthy fats, and fresh flavors.
How to store and reheat seafood sauté?
Seafood is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of lemon or a pat of butter to keep the seafood from drying out.
What to serve with lobster and scallops?
Simple sides like sautéed greens, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad work beautifully. For an elegant touch, consider pairing it with a light pasta or even building an elegant seafood platter with extra shrimp and scallops.
Recipe Details:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 320 per serving
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
- Sodium: 560mg
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 26g
- Vitamin A: 15%
- Vitamin C: 20%
- Calcium: 4%
- Iron: 15%
This recipe is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly, with a rich balance of healthy fats and protein from the seafood and butter.
Categorized Recipe Information:
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: American, Seafood
- Diet: Keto, Gluten-Free, Low-Carb
- Method: Sauté
- Keyword: Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops, Gourmet Lobster Shrimp Scallop Sauté Recipe
- Skill Level: Intermediate (for best results, keep an eye on the seafood to avoid overcooking)
This quick 15-minute seafood dinner recipe is the perfect way to enjoy gourmet flavors without the long cooking time. It’s the ideal dish for seafood lovers and anyone looking to impress with minimal effort. Enjoy this delicious, easy restaurant-quality seafood scampi next time you crave something truly special.