Shrimp & lobster
🍤🦞 Garlic Butter Shrimp & Lobster Over Rice
⭐️ Ingredients:
• 1 bag frozen raw shrimp (12–16 oz, peeled & deveined)
• 1 bag frozen mini lobster tails or langostino (6–8 oz)
• 3 tbsp butter (divided)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 tbsp pre-minced garlic)
• 1 small shallot or 1/2 onion, finely diced
• 1 tbsp flour (for thickening)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional but recommended)
• 1/2 tsp paprika (smoked if you have it)
• 1/4 tsp cayenne (optional)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half & half)
• Juice of 1/2 a lemon (plus wedges for serving)
• 2 tbsp parsley (fresh or 1 tsp dried)
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• Cooked white rice, jasmine, or basmati for serving
🔥 Instructions:
1. Thaw the seafood.
Place shrimp and lobster in a colander and run under cold water until thawed. Pat dry.
2. Sauté aromatics.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp butter + 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion/shallot and cook 2–3 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add tomato paste & spices.
Stir in 1 tbsp tomato paste and cook for about 1 minute to deepen flavor. Add paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Make a quick roux.
Push everything to one side of the pan. Add 1 tbsp flour and melt 1 tbsp butter into it, stirring until it forms a paste. Cook for 1 minute until slightly golden, then mix into the onions and garlic.
5. Deglaze and make the sauce.
Pour in 1/2 cup chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits. Simmer 1–2 minutes. Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream and simmer 2–3 minutes until thickened.
6. Cook the seafood.
Add shrimp and cook about 2 minutes per side until pink. Add lobster and cook another 1–2 minutes until warmed through.
7. Finish.
Squeeze in lemon juice, stir in parsley, and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and more lemon if desired.
8. Serve.
Spoon the seafood and sauce over bowls of hot cooked rice. Garnish with parsley, cracked pepper, and lemon wedges.
If you're looking for a quick and delicious seafood recipe, Garlic Butter Shrimp & Lobster Over Rice is a perfect choice. This dish combines the succulent flavors of shrimp and lobster tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce, making it a delightful meal that’s both gourmet and easy to prepare. To begin, using frozen shrimp and lobster tails not only saves time but also ensures that you can enjoy this dish year-round, without worrying about the availability of fresh seafood. Thaw the seafood under cold running water and pat dry before cooking to achieve the best texture. The recipe starts with sautéing aromatics like shallots and garlic in butter and olive oil until they are soft and fragrant. This foundational step is key to enhancing the overall flavor of your dish. Adding tomato paste, paprika, and cayenne pepper will elevate the dish's taste, creating a beautiful balance of savory and spicy notes. Creating a roux with flour and butter is a simple yet effective way to thicken the sauce. This step emphasizes the importance of building layers of flavor, which is essential for a satisfying seafood dish. After deglazing the pan with chicken broth and adding heavy cream, you’ll achieve a luscious sauce that clings perfectly to the seafood. Once your sauce is ready, add the shrimp and lobster, cooking them just until they are pink and tender. Remember, overcooking can lead to rubbery textures, so it's crucial to monitor cooking times closely. Finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of parsley for a vibrant garnish that adds freshness and color. Serve this Garlic Butter Shrimp & Lobster over bowls of steaming rice—whether jasmine or basmati—to soak up all the rich flavors. It’s perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home. This dish is sure to impress everyone at the table, making it a go-to recipe for any seafood lover!