Name: Surf and Turf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ribeye or filet mignon steaks; Salt and freshly ground black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, smashed; 2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary; 8 large shrimp 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; Mashed potatoes; Roasted vegetables; Green salad

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Surf and Turf is a luxurious culinary pairing that brings together the bold, rich flavor of a perfectly seared steak with the delicate sweetness of shrimp or lobster. This classic duo is ideal for special occasions or an indulgent dinner at home, offering a satisfying contrast of textures and flavors in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This surf and turf recipe is all about simplicity and elegance. With just a few high-quality ingredients and straightforward cooking methods, you can create a restaurant-worthy meal in your own kitchen. The herbed butter basted steak and garlicky seafood complement each other perfectly, and the versatility of side options allows for easy customization.

Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Steak:

2 ribeye or filet mignon steaks

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

2 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp unsalted butter

2 cloves garlic, smashed

2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary

For the Seafood:

8 large shrimp or 2 lobster tails

2 tbsp unsalted butter

2 cloves garlic, minced

½ tsp paprika

Juice of ½ lemon

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Sides:

Mashed potatoes

Roasted vegetables

Green salad

Directions
Prepare the Steak:
Pat steaks dry and season generously with salt and black pepper on both sides.

Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet or heavy pan over high heat until shimmering.

Sear steaks for 2–3 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust time for desired doneness.

Reduce heat to medium-low and add butter, smashed garlic, and fresh herbs.

Baste the steaks with the melted herb butter by spooning it over the meat for another 1–2 minutes.

Remove steaks from the skillet and let them rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.

Cook the Seafood:
If using shrimp:

Peel, devein, and pat the shrimp dry.

Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

In a clean skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Add shrimp and cook 2–3 minutes per side until opaque and lightly golden.

Squeeze lemon juice over the shrimp just before serving.

If using lobster tails:

Split the shells and gently loosen the meat from the shell. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Melt butter in a skillet or bake at 375°F (190°C) with garlic and lemon juice, basting occasionally, until the meat is opaque and cooked through (8–10 minutes depending on size).

Serve:
Plate the steak and seafood side by side. Serve with your choice of sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a crisp salad. Garnish with fresh herbs or a lemon wedge if desired.

Servings and timing
Servings: 2

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Calories: Approximately 650–750 kcal per serving (without sides)

Variations
Garlic Cream Sauce: Add a drizzle of garlic cream or béarnaise sauce for extra richness.

Chimichurri Topping: Serve with a bright herb chimichurri for a fresh contrast.

Surf & Surf: Use both shrimp and lobster for a deluxe seafood addition.

Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne to the seafood seasoning.

Grilled Option: Grill the steak and seafood for a smoky twist.

Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve the texture, especially for the seafood. Avoid microwaving as it can make both steak and shrimp rubbery.

FAQs
What steak cut is best for surf and turf?
Filet mignon and ribeye are classic choices due to their tenderness and flavor, but New York strip is also excellent.

Can I make this dish on the grill?
Yes, both steak and seafood can be grilled. Use high heat for steak and medium for shrimp or lobster.

Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes, but make sure it’s fully thawed and well-drained before cooking.

What wine pairs well with surf and turf?
A full-bodied red wine (like Cabernet Sauvignon) works well with steak, while a buttery Chardonnay or dry Rosé pairs nicely with seafood.

How do I keep the steak juicy?
Let it rest after cooking so the juices redistribute. Avoid overcooking for best results.

What’s a good side to serve with this?
Creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or asparagus are all great choices.

Can I use compound butter?
Yes, garlic herb or lemon butter adds excellent flavor to both steak and seafood.

What’s the ideal doneness for steak?
Medium-rare (130–135°F or 54–57°C) is the most popular for tenderness and flavor.

How do I know shrimp is done?
Shrimp turn pink and opaque when fully cooked and form a loose “C” shape.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can season the meat and seafood ahead, but cook just before serving for best texture and flavor.

Conclusion
Surf and Turf is the ultimate dinner for when you want to impress or treat yourself to a gourmet experience at home. With juicy, buttery steak and succulent shrimp or lobster, this dish delivers rich flavors and satisfying textures. Pair it with your favorite sides and a glass of wine for a complete, unforgettable meal.

Surf and Turf

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Author: Douaa
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 2 servings

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Description

Treat yourself to the ultimate indulgence with this Surf and Turf recipe featuring perfectly seared steak and succulent seafood—your choice of shrimp or lobster. Enhanced with garlic butter and herbs, this elegant dinner is perfect for date nights, special occasions, or any time you crave a restaurant-quality meal at home. Ideal for fans of steak and shrimp recipes, lobster and filet dinners, and luxury surf and turf meals.

Instructions

Prepare the Steak:

Pat steaks dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat.
Sear steaks for 2–3 minutes per side (adjust for preferred doneness).
Lower heat to medium-low, add butter, smashed garlic, and herbs.
Baste steaks with the herb butter for 1–2 minutes.
Remove steaks and let rest for 5 minutes.

Cook the Seafood:

Shrimp Option:
1. Clean and devein shrimp. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. In a skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until opaque.
4. Squeeze lemon juice over and stir.
Lobster Tail Option:
1. Split lobster tails and brush with melted butter, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Broil or grill for 8–10 minutes until flesh is opaque and lightly browned.
3. Finish with lemon juice.