What is surf and turf?

Surf and turf is a meal combining seafood, typically lobster or shrimp (the "surf"), with steak or beef (the "turf"). It is popular for special occasions and romantic dinners due to its rich flavors and elegant presentation. Variations often include substituting shrimp or scallops for lobster.

How do you make a perfect surf and turf dinner at home?

Preparing surf and turf involves synchronizing the cooking of steaks and lobster tails. Start by making compound butter to flavor both components. Sear the steak in a cast iron skillet for rich browning, then finish in the oven, while baking lobster tails on a baking sheet. Using a meat thermometer for steak doneness and checking lobster meat firmness ensures both are perfect together.

What's the best skillet to use for cooking steaks?

A cast iron skillet is ideal because it retains heat exceptionally well, helping to sear the steak to a beautiful crust. It is also oven-safe, allowing a seamless transfer from stovetop to oven for finishing the steak.

How should I prepare lobster tails for cooking?

Using kitchen shears, cut down the center of the lobster tail shell lengthwise and carefully loosen the meat without detaching it completely. Avoid submerging the lobster in water to keep the flavor concentrated. Brushing the meat with compound butter and lemon juice before baking enhances taste and moisture.

Surf and Turf Steak and Lobster Tails: Romantic Dinner Recipe

Description

🥩 Impress your loved one with our Steak and Lobster recipe, a luxurious meal for a special night in.
🦞 Perfectly paired surf and turf, offering rich flavors and a delightful dining experience.

Ingredients

Scale

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
2 teaspoons minced shallot
1 garlic clove, minced
2 teaspoons minced fresh parsley
2 lobster tails, 5-6 ounces each
2 filet mignon steaks, 4 ounces each, at room temperature
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 ½ teaspoons black pepper
Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Combine the butter, shallot, garlic, and parsley to make compound butter. Form into a log using wax paper, freeze for 10 minutes, then refrigerate until ready for use.
2. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil sprayed with nonstick spray.
3. Prepare the lobster tails by cutting down the center of the shell with kitchen shears, loosening the meat, and drizzling with lemon juice.
4. Divide the compound butter and place pieces on each lobster tail. Arrange on the baking sheet.
5. Drizzle steaks with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.
6. In a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, sear steaks for 1-2 minutes per side. Transfer skillet to the oven and cook to desired doneness (medium-rare: 125-130°F, medium: 135°F, medium-well: 145°F).
7. Place lobster tails in the oven and bake for 6-8 minutes until the meat is firm and opaque.
8. Allow the steaks to rest for 5 minutes after baking. Serve alongside lobster tails, topping steaks with the remaining compound butter and garnishing with lemon wedges.

Notes

🍽️ Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steaks reach your preferred doneness.
🦞 Avoid overcooking the lobster tails to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
🥄 Resting steaks post-cooking keeps the juices inside when cutting.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking and Searing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 steak and 1 lobster tail
Calories: 600-750
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 1200 mg
Fat: 40-50 g
Saturated Fat: 20-25 g
Unsaturated Fat: 15-20 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 3 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 45-55 g
Cholesterol: 160-190 mg