This Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops with Lemon Orzo is a restaurant-quality seafood dish you can prepare at home with ease. Featuring succulent lobster tails, perfectly seared scallops, and a creamy, citrus-infused orzo, this dish is rich, buttery, and full of fresh flavors.
The garlic butter enhances the natural sweetness of the seafood, while the lemon orzo balances the dish with a bright, refreshing touch. Serve this for a special occasion, date night, or when you’re in the mood for an elegant yet simple seafood feast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Luxurious Yet Simple – Despite its elegance, this dish is surprisingly easy to make.
✔ Flavor-Packed – The roasted garlic butter, seafood stock, white wine, and lemon create a perfect harmony of flavors.
✔ Perfectly Cooked Seafood – Scallops with a golden sear, and lobster tails that are tender and juicy.
✔ Versatile & Customizable – Easy to adjust seasoning, herbs, and spice levels to suit your taste.
✔ One-Pan Orzo – The orzo absorbs all the seafood flavors for a creamy, risotto-like texture.
Ingredients
For the Lobster Tails & Garlic Butter:
- 20 oz (2) lobster tails – Split for easy baking.
- 1/2 cup butter – Softened for making garlic butter.
- 3 tbsp olive oil – For roasting and searing.
- 2 heads garlic – Roasted for deep, sweet garlic flavor.
- 1/2 tsp salt – To enhance seasoning.
- 1 onion – Roasted for added sweetness.
- Fresh parsley (for topping) – Adds freshness and color.
For the Scallops & Lemon Orzo:
- 8 scallops – Pat dry for a golden crust.
- 2 tbsp garlic butter – Infused with roasted garlic.
- 1 cup orzo – Small pasta that absorbs flavors like risotto.
- 1 cup seafood stock – Enhances the seafood flavor.
- 1/2 cup white wine – Adds acidity and depth.
- 4 tbsp Parmesan cheese – For a creamy texture.
- 4 tbsp lemon juice – Brightens the dish.
- Salt & pepper (to taste) – Balances flavors.
- Fresh parsley (for topping) – For a fresh herbal touch.
- Lemon wedges (for serving) – Complements the dish beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Garlic & Onion
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Trim 1/2 inch off the top of each garlic head to expose the cloves. Remove any loose skins.
- Drizzle each head of garlic with 1 tbsp olive oil, wrap in foil, and place on a baking sheet.
- Cut the onion into wedges, keeping the base intact so it stays together. Drizzle with olive oil and wrap in foil.
- Roast for 40-60 minutes, until the garlic is soft and golden and the onion is tender.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter
- While the garlic and onion roast, let the butter soften at room temperature.
- Once roasted, squeeze the garlic cloves out of their skins and mash them into the butter with salt.
- Mix until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
Step 3: Sear the Scallops
- Heat 2 tbsp of the garlic butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Pat the scallops dry to ensure a perfect sear, then place them in the pan without crowding.
- Sear for 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Lemon Orzo
- Deglaze the skillet with white wine, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor.
- Let the wine reduce slightly, then add the orzo and seafood stock.
- Simmer for 9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and the liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Prepare the Lobster Tails
- Use kitchen scissors to cut through the top shell of each lobster tail.
- Gently lift the meat, placing it on top of the shell while still attached at the base.
- Place the tails on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until the shells are red and the meat is opaque.
- Avoid overcooking to prevent toughness.
Step 6: Finish the Orzo
- Stir in the lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley.
- Fold the seared scallops into the orzo and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat.
Step 7: Serve
- Spoon the lemon orzo and scallops onto plates.
- Place lobster tails on top and garnish with roasted onion wedges and melted garlic butter.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Pro Tips for Success
✔ Pat Dry the Scallops – This ensures a golden crust and prevents steaming.
✔ Don’t Overcook the Lobster – Cook just until opaque for a tender texture.
✔ Deglaze for Flavor – White wine lifts the fond (browned bits) from the skillet for extra richness.
✔ Use High-Quality Butter – The better the butter, the better the garlic butter sauce.
✔ Add Lemon at the End – This preserves its fresh, zesty flavor.
Substitutions & Variations
- No White Wine? Use chicken or vegetable broth for depth without the alcohol.
- Creamy Twist – Stir in heavy cream for a richer orzo.
- Herbed Garlic Butter – Add thyme, dill, or tarragon for a unique twist.
- Spicy Kick – Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
FAQs About Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops
1. Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes! Thaw scallops and lobster tails overnight in the fridge and pat dry before cooking.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
The garlic butter and roasted onion can be made a day in advance. Reheat before serving.
3. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently on low heat with a splash of seafood stock or butter to keep the seafood from drying out.
4. Can I cook the lobster on the stovetop instead?
Yes! Pan-sear in garlic butter for 3-4 minutes per side over medium heat.
5. What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the rich garlic butter sauce.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~550 |
| Protein | 45g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fats | 28g |
| Fiber | 3g |
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops with Lemon Orzo is a show-stopping seafood dish perfect for any occasion. With its rich garlic butter, juicy lobster, perfectly seared scallops, and creamy lemon orzo, it’s a luxurious meal that’s surprisingly simple to prepare at home.
Serve it for a date night, holiday dinner, or when you’re craving something special, and enjoy a meal that’s as delicious as it is impressive!