Indulge in a decadent seafood experience with this luxurious assortment of gourmet seafood. Featuring succulent lobster, tender scallops, flavorful shrimp, and delicate crab legs, this dish is perfect for a special occasion or an elegant dinner at home. The combination of garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs enhances the natural sweetness of the seafood, making it a showstopper on any table. Paired with melted butter for dipping and a side of roasted vegetables, this gourmet seafood platter is sure to impress with both its flavor and presentation.
Ingredients:
- 1 lobster tail, split in half
- 1/2 lb scallops
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb crab legs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Melted butter for dipping
Preparation:
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preparing the oven beforehand ensures even cooking and brings out the flavors of the seafood.
Step 2:
On a large baking sheet, arrange the seafood assortment: place the split lobster tail, scallops, shrimp, and crab legs evenly on the sheet to ensure proper heat distribution.
Step 3:
Drizzle the seafood with olive oil, making sure to coat each piece well. Olive oil not only adds richness but also helps the seafood cook evenly without sticking to the baking sheet.
Step 4:
Sprinkle the seafood with the minced garlic and freshly squeezed lemon juice. The garlic infuses the seafood with a bold, aromatic flavor, while the lemon juice provides a bright, tangy contrast that elevates the dish.
Step 5:
Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Seasoning seafood properly ensures that the natural flavors shine through without overpowering the delicate taste of the lobster, scallops, shrimp, and crab.
Step 6:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The seafood should be cooked through, with the lobster tail slightly browned. Be careful not to overcook, as seafood can become tough if left in the oven for too long.
Step 7:
Once done, remove the seafood from the oven and immediately garnish with freshly chopped parsley. The parsley adds a touch of freshness and color, making the dish visually appealing.
Step 8:
Serve the seafood platter with lemon wedges on the side for added zest, and melt some butter for dipping. The butter enhances the richness of the seafood and adds a luxurious touch to the meal.
COOKING Note:
- Keep a close eye on the lobster tail during baking. Lobster can go from perfectly cooked to overdone quite quickly. You want the lobster tail to be slightly browned and opaque in the center.
- If you have a seafood thermometer, the internal temperature of the lobster tail should reach around 140°F (60°C) when fully cooked.
- You can grill the seafood instead of baking it for a smoky, charred flavor. Simply follow the same steps, but grill on medium heat for 8-10 minutes instead.
Serving Suggestions:
For a complete meal, serve this luxurious seafood platter with roasted vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, or baby potatoes. pairs wonderfully with the seafood, enhancing its flavors while adding elegance to the dining experience. A side of crusty French bread is also perfect for soaking up the melted butter.
Alternatively, pair the seafood with a light salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing complement to the richness of the seafood.
Tips:
- For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the olive oil mixture before baking. This will give the seafood a mild kick of heat and depth of flavor.
- Use fresh seafood whenever possible to achieve the best taste and texture. If you’re using frozen seafood, make sure to fully thaw it before cooking.
- For easier serving, pre-crack the crab legs before cooking. This way, guests can enjoy the meal without struggling to break open the shells.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 850mg
FAQs:
Q1: Can I substitute other seafood in this dish?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, so feel free to mix and match your favorite seafood. You can add mussels, clams, or even a piece of white fish like cod or halibut. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different seafoods may require more or less time to cook through.
Q2: What can I use instead of melted butter for dipping?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use olive oil infused with herbs and garlic for dipping. Alternatively, a light lemon-garlic aioli would pair beautifully with the seafood.
Q3: How do I know when the seafood is fully cooked?
The shrimp should turn pink and opaque, the scallops should have a firm texture and a slight golden crust, and the lobster tail should be opaque and slightly browned. If you have a food thermometer, the internal temperature should read between 140°F (60°C) and 145°F (62°C).
Q4: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While seafood is best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time by cleaning, peeling, and seasoning them. Store the prepped seafood in the fridge for up to a few hours before baking. However, avoid baking it ahead of time, as reheating seafood can cause it to dry out.
Conclusion:
This luxurious assortment of gourmet seafood is not only a feast for the senses but also a delight to prepare and serve. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or simply treating yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this dish offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The freshness of the seafood combined with the brightness of the lemon and the richness of the butter creates an unforgettable dining experience. Add a few of your favorite sides, and you have a complete, elegant meal that will leave your guests raving. Enjoy the best that the ocean has to offer with this indulgent seafood feast!
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Luxurious Assortment of Gourmet Seafood
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 lobster tail, split in half
- 1/2 lb scallops
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb crab legs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Melted butter for dipping
Instructions
Preparation:
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preparing the oven beforehand ensures even cooking and brings out the flavors of the seafood.
Step 2:
On a large baking sheet, arrange the seafood assortment: place the split lobster tail, scallops, shrimp, and crab legs evenly on the sheet to ensure proper heat distribution.
Step 3:
Drizzle the seafood with olive oil, making sure to coat each piece well. Olive oil not only adds richness but also helps the seafood cook evenly without sticking to the baking sheet.
Step 4:
Sprinkle the seafood with the minced garlic and freshly squeezed lemon juice. The garlic infuses the seafood with a bold, aromatic flavor, while the lemon juice provides a bright, tangy contrast that elevates the dish.
Step 5:
Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Seasoning seafood properly ensures that the natural flavors shine through without overpowering the delicate taste of the lobster, scallops, shrimp, and crab.
Step 6:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The seafood should be cooked through, with the lobster tail slightly browned. Be careful not to overcook, as seafood can become tough if left in the oven for too long.
Step 7:
Once done, remove the seafood from the oven and immediately garnish with freshly chopped parsley. The parsley adds a touch of freshness and color, making the dish visually appealing.
Step 8:
Serve the seafood platter with lemon wedges on the side for added zest, and melt some butter for dipping. The butter enhances the richness of the seafood and adds a luxurious touch to the meal.
Notes
COOKING Note:
- Keep a close eye on the lobster tail during baking. Lobster can go from perfectly cooked to overdone quite quickly. You want the lobster tail to be slightly browned and opaque in the center.
- If you have a seafood thermometer, the internal temperature of the lobster tail should reach around 140°F (60°C) when fully cooked.
- You can grill the seafood instead of baking it for a smoky, charred flavor. Simply follow the same steps, but grill on medium heat for 8-10 minutes instead.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sodium: 850mg
- Protein: 35g