Surf and Turf for Two

 Surf and Turf for Two is a delicious and indulgent meal that pairs a juicy steak with tender seafood, typically lobster tail or shrimp. Here’s how to make it at home:

Ingredients:

For the Steak:

2 ribeye, filet mignon, or sirloin steaks (about 6-8 oz each)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1-2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)

For the Lobster Tail:

2 lobster tails

2 tablespoons butter, melted

1 garlic clove, minced

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Juice of 1/2 lemon

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Shrimp (optional, if using instead of lobster):

8-10 large shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 garlic clove, minced

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Steak:

Room temperature: Take the steaks out of the refrigerator about 30-60 minutes before cooking to bring them to room temperature. This ensures even cooking.

Seasoning: Rub both sides of the steaks with olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper.

2. Cook the Steak:

Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steaks and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare (adjust time based on your preferred doneness).

Optional: For extra flavor, add garlic and fresh herbs to the pan, and spoon some of the pan juices over the steaks while they cook.

Once done, remove the steaks and let them rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

3. Prepare the Lobster Tail (if using):

Cut the lobster tail: Use kitchen shears to cut down the middle of the lobster shell (on top), stopping just before the tail. Gently pull the shell apart, and lift the lobster meat out slightly, keeping it attached at the base.

Seasoning: Brush the lobster meat with melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper.

Cooking method: Grill or broil the lobster tail. For grilling, place the lobster meat side down on a hot grill for 5-6 minutes, then flip it and grill for another 3-4 minutes until the meat is opaque. For broiling, broil the lobster tail 4-5 inches from the heat for 8-10 minutes.

4. Prepare the Shrimp (if using instead of lobster):

In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, until pink and opaque.

5. Serve:

Plate the steaks and lobster tails (or shrimp). Optionally, garnish with a bit more chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Surf and Turf:

For an extra indulgent touch, you can drizzle some of the melted garlic butter from the lobster tail over the steaks.

You can also add sides like roasted potatoes, asparagus, or a fresh salad to round out the meal.

This Surf and Turf for Two makes for an impressive and

 romantic dinner, combining the rich flavors of steak with the delicate sweetness of seafood!