Name: Surf & Turf Date Night Dinner: A Romantic, Delicious Meal at Home!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 steaks (Ribeye, Filet Mignon, or NY Strip); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp butter; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 sprig fresh rosemary or thyme; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 lobster tails, or 8 large shrimp, or 6 scallops; 2 tbsp butter; 2 garlic cloves, minced; ½ lemon, juiced; ¼ tsp paprika; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste; ¼ cup white wine (optional, for deglazing); ½ cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp butter; ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A Surf & Turf dinner is the ultimate way to impress your significant other without needing to book a reservation at an expensive restaurant. This meal pairs juicy, tender steak with succulent seafood—usually lobster, shrimp, or scallops—creating a luxurious balance of flavors and textures. Whether it’s for an anniversary, Valentine’s Day, or just a special evening, this dish delivers indulgence with a homemade touch.

Why this meal is perfect for date night:

Elegant yet easy: Though it sounds fancy, this meal is simple to prepare with a few essential techniques.
Customizable: You can tailor the proteins and sides to your preferences.
Rich flavors: The contrast between buttery seafood and a perfectly seared steak makes for an unforgettable meal.
Restaurant-quality at home: Save money while enjoying a gourmet dinner in the comfort of your space.

Ingredients

Ribeye, filet mignon, or NY strip steak
Lobster tails, shrimp, or scallops
Olive oil
Butter
Garlic cloves
Fresh rosemary or thyme
Lemon
White wine (optional)
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Heavy cream (for a sauce, if desired)
Parmesan cheese (for added flavor in sauces)

Directions

1. Prep the Ingredients

Take the steak out of the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature.
Pat the seafood dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
Mince garlic and prepare fresh herbs.

2. Cook the Steak

Heat a heavy skillet (cast iron works best) over medium-high heat.
Season the steak generously with salt, pepper, and a touch of olive oil.
Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes on each side, until a golden crust forms.
Add butter, garlic, and rosemary or thyme to the pan, basting the steak for extra flavor.
Cook to desired doneness, then let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.

3. Prepare the Seafood

If using lobster tails, butterfly them by cutting down the center of the shell.
Heat butter and garlic in a separate pan over medium heat.
Add the seafood, seasoning with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Cook shrimp or scallops for about 2 minutes per side, and lobster tails until the meat is opaque (5-6 minutes).

4. Make a Simple Sauce (Optional)

Deglaze the steak pan with white wine and reduce.
Add heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan for a rich sauce to drizzle over the steak and seafood.

5. Plate and Serve

Arrange the steak and seafood on a plate with your chosen sides.
Garnish with fresh herbs and an extra drizzle of butter.

Variations

Swap the seafood: Use crab legs or salmon instead of shrimp or lobster.
Alternative steak cuts: Try sirloin or T-bone for a different texture.
Spicy twist: Add Cajun seasoning for a bold kick.
Garlic butter upgrade: Mix in chopped fresh herbs or a splash of lemon juice for extra flavor.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 2

Storage/Reheating

Steak: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a low oven (275°F) or a skillet over low heat.
Seafood: Best eaten fresh, but can be stored for a day in the fridge. Reheat gently in a pan with butter.
Sauce: Refrigerate for up to 3 days; reheat on low heat, stirring frequently.

FAQs

1. What’s the best cut of steak for Surf & Turf?

Filet mignon, ribeye, or New York strip are top choices due to their tenderness and rich flavor.

2. Can I grill the steak and seafood instead of pan-searing?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a smoky flavor that enhances both components.

3. What sides go well with Surf & Turf?

Mashed potatoes, asparagus, garlic butter rice, or a fresh salad make great pairings.

4. How do I prevent my steak from being tough?

Avoid overcooking, let it rest after cooking, and slice against the grain for the best texture.

5. What wine pairs best with this meal?

A full-bodied red like Cabernet Sauvignon complements the steak, while a buttery Chardonnay enhances the seafood.

6. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use olive oil instead of butter and skip the cream-based sauce.

7. How do I know when my seafood is done?

Shrimp turn pink, scallops develop a golden crust, and lobster tails turn opaque when fully cooked.

8. Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, just thaw it completely in the fridge before cooking.

9. What’s the best way to ensure a good sear on my steak and seafood?

Make sure both are dry before cooking and use a hot pan with minimal movement.

10. How do I butterfly a lobster tail?

Use kitchen shears to cut through the top shell lengthwise, then gently lift the meat while keeping it attached at the base.

Conclusion

A Surf & Turf Date Night Dinner is the perfect way to treat yourself and a loved one to a gourmet experience without leaving home. With its elegant presentation, bold flavors, and easy preparation, this meal is sure to impress. Whether celebrating a special occasion or just elevating your dinner plans, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality feast in the comfort of your own kitchen. Enjoy!

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