Indulge in a gourmet dining experience at home with this elegant Lobster Tail and Scallops recipe, paired with a bright, zesty lemon orzo. Tender lobster tails, buttery seared scallops, and a velvety garlic butter sauce come together for a dish that tastes like it came straight from a fine-dining restaurant.
Perfect for special occasions, anniversaries, or a romantic date night, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious feast — full of rich, ocean-fresh flavor and irresistible aroma.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Lobster Tails & Garlic Butter
- 20 oz (2) lobster tails
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 heads garlic
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 onion
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Scallops & Lemon Orzo
- 8 large scallops
- 2 tablespoons garlic butter (from above)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup seafood stock
- ½ cup white wine
- 4 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for topping
- Lemon wedges, for serving
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic & Onion
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cut about ½ inch off the top of each garlic head to expose the cloves. Drizzle each with olive oil and wrap in foil.
Cut the onion into wedges, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil as well.
Place both on a baking sheet and roast for 40–60 minutes, until the garlic is golden and soft, and the onion is tender and translucent.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter
While the garlic cools, let the butter soften at room temperature.
Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and mash into the butter with salt. Mix until smooth and fragrant. Set aside.
Step 3: Sear the Scallops
Melt 2 tablespoons of the garlic butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Place scallops in the skillet, making sure they are not crowded. Sear for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown and opaque in the center.
Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Lemon Orzo
Using the same skillet, pour in the white wine to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
Once the wine reduces slightly, stir in the orzo and seafood stock. Simmer for about 9 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has absorbed.
Step 5: Cook the Lobster Tails
While the orzo cooks, prepare the lobster tails.
Using kitchen shears, cut down the top of each shell and gently lift the lobster meat to rest on top of the shell.
Place them on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, until the shells turn bright red and the meat is opaque and tender.
Avoid overcooking — lobster becomes rubbery when left too long.
Step 6: Finish the Orzo
Stir lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and parsley into the cooked orzo.
Fold in the seared scallops and season to taste with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
Step 7: Serve & Garnish
Spoon the lemon orzo and scallops mixture onto plates and top with the baked lobster tails.
Add the roasted onion wedges alongside for a beautiful presentation.
Serve with melted garlic butter and fresh lemon wedges for drizzling.
💡 Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Lobster and Scallops
- Use Fresh Seafood:
Always choose fresh lobster and scallops for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw fully and pat dry to prevent excess moisture. - Control the Heat:
Scallops need high heat to sear properly — aim for golden edges without overcooking. Lobster should be tender, never rubbery. - Mind the Garlic:
Garlic burns fast, so let it roast for sweetness or add it toward the end of sautéing for balanced flavor. - Balance the Richness:
The lemon orzo cuts through the richness of the butter and seafood, bringing harmony to every bite.
🌿 Variations
- Citrus Twist: Add lemon or lime zest to the garlic butter or finish with a squeeze of citrus before serving.
- Herb-Infused Butter: Swap parsley for dill, tarragon, or thyme for a different aromatic note.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to the butter for depth and warmth.
- Creamy Option: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or mascarpone cheese to the orzo for extra richness.
🦞 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
- Add a side of roasted asparagus or grilled zucchini for color and freshness.
- Finish with extra parsley and a drizzle of garlic butter right before serving for that restaurant-quality presentation.
✨ Conclusion
This Lobster Tail and Scallops with Lemon Orzo is the definition of indulgence — rich, buttery, and elegant, yet easy enough to make at home. The sweet lobster, golden seared scallops, and bright citrus pasta create a stunning harmony of flavor and texture that’s impossible to resist.
Whether it’s a date night, holiday celebration, or simply an evening when you want to treat yourself, this dish transforms dinner into a five-star experience.
Serve it hot, pour the wine, and savor every luxurious bite. 🍋🦞
