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Surf and Turf – A Luxurious Combination of Steak and Seafood

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Few meals can rival the decadence of Surf and Turf. Combining tender, perfectly seared steak with buttery seafood, this dish offers the best of land and sea. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner or celebrating a special occasion, Surf and Turf is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to make.

Let’s dive into how you can create this indulgent dish in your own kitchen.

Ingredients for Surf and Turf

For the Steak:

  • 2 ribeye or filet mignon steaks
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary

For the Seafood:

  • 8 large shrimp (cleaned and deveined) or 2 lobster tails
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Sides:

  • Mashed potatoes
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Green salad

Step-by-Step Instructions for Surf and Turf

1. Prepare the Steak

  1. Season the steaks generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat until shimmering.
  3. Sear the steaks for 2-3 minutes per side to create a golden crust. Adjust the cooking time for your preferred doneness:
    • Rare: 120°F (49°C)
    • Medium-Rare: 130°F (54°C)
    • Medium: 140°F (60°C)
  4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the butter, garlic, and thyme/rosemary to the skillet. Spoon the melted butter over the steaks for another 1-2 minutes to infuse them with flavor.
  5. Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices.

2. Cook the Seafood

  1. If using shrimp:
    • Clean and devein the shrimp, then season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  2. If using lobster tails:
    • Cut the lobster tails lengthwise to expose the meat. Season lightly with salt and paprika.
  3. In a separate skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
  4. Add the seafood to the skillet:
    • Shrimp: Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
    • Lobster tails: Cook meat-side down for 4-5 minutes, basting with the garlic butter until fully cooked.
  5. Squeeze lemon juice over the seafood for a bright, tangy finish.

3. Assemble and Serve

  1. Plate the steak and seafood side by side.
  2. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges, if desired.
  3. Serve with your choice of sides, such as creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad.

Tips for Success

  • Room-Temperature Ingredients: Let the steaks and seafood come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking.
  • Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to prevent overcooking the steak or seafood. Both should remain juicy and tender.
  • Baste for Flavor: Continuously spooning the melted butter over the steak or seafood adds richness and enhances flavor.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp, lobster, and herbs make a significant difference in taste and quality.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Surf and Turf with these sides for a complete gourmet meal:

  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they’re the perfect base for soaking up the garlic butter.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy and colorful addition.
  • Green Salad: A simple salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich steak and seafood.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I grill the steak and seafood instead of pan-searing?
Absolutely! Grilling adds a smoky flavor to both the steak and seafood. Just ensure the grill is preheated to high heat for the steak and medium heat for the seafood.

Can I use other cuts of steak?
Yes, cuts like New York strip or sirloin work well for this dish if ribeye or filet mignon isn’t available.

What other seafood can I use?
This recipe works with scallops, crab legs, or even a mix of seafood for variety.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain the texture.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~450 kcal
  • Protein: 40g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fat: 30g

Conclusion

Surf and Turf is the ultimate way to enjoy the best of both worlds—rich, juicy steak paired with tender, buttery seafood. This recipe is easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for a special occasion. With its bold flavors and versatile serving options, it’s a guaranteed hit that will leave everyone impressed.

So grab your skillet, whip up this gourmet meal, and treat yourself to the luxurious flavors of Surf and Turf.

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