This Surf and Turf Steak and Lobster is the epitome of indulgence, featuring a tender, juicy steak paired with perfectly grilled lobster tails. The garlic butter glaze adds a layer of richness that complements the smokiness from the grill. It’s a luxurious and satisfying meal, ideal for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself.
With this dish, you can customize the seasoning and sides to suit your preferences. Serve alongside a fresh salad or crispy roasted potatoes for a well-rounded meal. The combination of savory steak and delicate lobster provides a delightful contrast of flavors, making each bite an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary or just enjoying a fantastic meal, this Surf and Turf will impress every time.
Full Recipe:
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2 rib-eye steaks (1 inch thick)
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2 lobster tails
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
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1 teaspoon lemon zest
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
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Season steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
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Use a sharp knife to cut down the top of the lobster tails, exposing the meat. Gently pull the meat out and lay it on top of the shell.
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In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic, parsley, and lemon zest. Brush lobster tails with the butter mixture.
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Drizzle olive oil on the steaks and place them on the grill. Grill steaks for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if desired.
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Place lobster tails on the grill, flesh side down, and grill for 6-8 minutes, brushing with butter occasionally.
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Once the steaks and lobster tails are cooked to your liking, remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes.
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Serve the grilled steak and lobster tails on a platter, topped with any remaining garlic butter.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes Kcal: 480 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
The Origins of Surf and Turf
The origins of Surf and Turf date back to the mid-20th century, with its rise in popularity often attributed to high-end restaurants in the United States. It’s a meal that effortlessly combines the land and the sea, showcasing the best of both worlds. Although its roots may lie in upscale dining, Surf and Turf has since become a favorite dish in home kitchens, thanks to its sophisticated presentation and relatively simple preparation techniques.
Choosing the Right Steak for Your Surf and Turf
When selecting the perfect steak for your Surf and Turf, it’s essential to choose a cut that will complement the richness of the lobster. Rib-eye steaks are a popular choice due to their tenderness, marbling, and flavor, but filet mignon, New York strip, or porterhouse steaks can also work beautifully. For the best flavor, look for steaks that are at least 1-inch thick, ensuring they remain juicy and tender after grilling.
A key tip when cooking steak is to let it come to room temperature before cooking. This allows the meat to cook more evenly, resulting in a better texture and flavor. Season the steak generously with salt and pepper, and consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for additional depth. A touch of olive oil brushed on the steak before grilling will help achieve a perfect sear.
Perfecting Your Lobster Tail
Lobster is the star of this dish, and grilling it to perfection is an art form in itself. The lobster tail should be split down the center, exposing the tender meat while keeping it attached to the shell. This not only enhances the presentation but also helps the lobster cook evenly on the grill. The meat of the lobster is naturally sweet and succulent, but brushing it with garlic butter during grilling adds a layer of richness that makes the dish truly special.
Lobster tails should be grilled flesh side down first to develop a slightly crispy texture, before flipping them over to finish cooking. The goal is to achieve a perfectly cooked lobster with a slight char and a tender, juicy interior. Be careful not to overcook the lobster, as it can become rubbery and tough. A grilling time of 6 to 8 minutes typically works well for most lobster tails, but always keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
The Importance of Garlic Butter
Garlic butter is the secret ingredient that ties the steak and lobster together. This rich, fragrant butter enhances both proteins and adds a luxurious finish to the dish. To make garlic butter, simply melt unsalted butter and mix in freshly minced garlic, parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice. This simple combination provides the perfect balance of flavors, adding depth to the dish without overpowering the natural tastes of the steak and lobster.
While grilling, continue to baste the lobster and steak with the garlic butter for extra flavor. It helps to keep both the steak and lobster moist, adding a beautiful glossy finish to the lobster tail while infusing the steak with aromatic goodness.
How to Grill the Perfect Steak and Lobster
Grilling is the ideal cooking method for Surf and Turf, as it imparts a smoky flavor that enhances both the steak and lobster. Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. It’s important to use a clean grill, as it ensures your proteins won’t stick, and it helps achieve those perfect grill marks that give the dish its signature appearance.
Start by placing the steaks on the grill. For medium-rare steaks, grill for 4 to 5 minutes per side, adjusting based on your preferred doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, with 130°F being the sweet spot for medium-rare.
After placing the steaks on the grill, it’s time to prepare the lobster. Use a sharp knife or kitchen shears to split the lobster tails and remove the meat from the shell slightly, so it sits on top of the shell. This helps the lobster cook evenly and ensures it doesn’t curl up during grilling. Brush the lobster meat with garlic butter and place it on the grill. Grill for about 6 to 8 minutes, flipping it once halfway through. The lobster will turn a beautiful golden color when it’s ready to come off the grill.
Side Dishes and Pairings for Surf and Turf
While Surf and Turf is a stand-alone meal, the right side dishes can elevate it even further. For a classic touch, serve your steak and lobster with a side of crispy roasted potatoes or mashed potatoes. The creamy texture of mashed potatoes pairs wonderfully with the richness of the steak and lobster, providing a comforting contrast.
A fresh salad is another great option to balance the richness of the dish. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad can add a refreshing note to your meal. Additionally, steamed asparagus, sautéed spinach, or grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers would pair beautifully with the Surf and Turf, offering a mix of textures and flavors to complement the main proteins.
For wine pairing, opt for a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Malbec to complement the steak. These wines have the structure and tannins necessary to stand up to the rich flavors of the meat. For the lobster, a crisp, chilled white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc will bring out the sweetness of the lobster and cut through the richness of the garlic butter.
Conclusion: Elevating Your Dining Experience
Surf and Turf Steak and Lobster is a timeless dish that never goes out of style. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a romantic dinner, or simply indulging in something special, this dish is sure to impress. With its combination of perfectly grilled steak, tender lobster, and rich garlic butter, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
While the recipe itself is simple to execute, the flavors are undeniably luxurious. By choosing the best cuts of meat, preparing the lobster with care, and using high-quality garlic butter, you can easily create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. Pairing the dish with delicious sides and a carefully selected wine will elevate the dining experience even further.
If you’ve never tried Surf and Turf before, now is the perfect time to do so. With these tips and techniques, you’ll be able to master the art of grilling steak and lobster, bringing a little bit of luxury to your own table.