FIRST STEP: PREPARE THE STEAK

1. Bring Steaks to Room Temperature: Before cooking, remove the steaks from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This ensures the steak cooks evenly.
2. Season the Steaks: Generously season both sides of the steak with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. You can also add a touch of garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor if you like.
3. Heat the Pan: Place a heavy skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat up until it shimmers.
4. Sear the Steak: Once the pan is hot, add the steaks. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side for a perfect medium-rare steak. Adjust the cooking time if you prefer your steak more or less done. For medium, cook for about 5 minutes per side. For well-done, you may need to cook for 7-8 minutes per side.
5. Add Garlic and Herbs: During the last minute of cooking, add the smashed garlic cloves and fresh herbs to the pan, allowing the flavors to infuse the oil. You can also add the butter at this stage and spoon it over the steak for added richness.
6. Rest the Steaks: Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a tender, juicy steak.

SECOND STEP: PREPARE THE SEAFOOD

1. Prepare the Lobster Tails or Shrimp/Scallops: If you’re using lobster tails, use kitchen scissors to cut down the top shell of each tail. Gently pull the shell apart, but leave the tail meat attached to the bottom. Season the lobster with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika (if desired). For shrimp or scallops, simply season them with the same seasonings.
2. Cook the Lobster or Shrimp:
   • For lobster tails, heat a pan with a little olive oil over medium heat. Place the lobster tails, flesh side down, and cook for about 5-6 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the lobster meat is opaque and firm.
   • For shrimp, heat the oil in a pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
   • For scallops, sear them for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown on the outside but still tender on the inside.
3. Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce: While the seafood is cooking, melt 1/4 cup of butter in a small pan. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then add the lemon juice and fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

THIRD STEP: PLATE AND SERVE

1. Plate the Steaks: Once the steaks have rested, slice them against the grain and arrange them on plates.
2. Add the Seafood: Place the lobster tails, shrimp, or scallops next to the steak. If you’re using lobster, you can remove the lobster meat from the shell for ease of eating.
3. Drizzle with Garlic Butter: Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the steak and seafood, ensuring each component gets a generous amount.
4. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the entire dish for color and freshness. Add a wedge of lemon on the side for an extra pop of citrus.

FINAL STEP: ENJOY YOUR DATE NIGHT DINNER

Serve your surf and turf meal with your chosen sides, whether it’s creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad. Pair it with a bottle of white wine or sparkling water, and you’re ready for a romantic dinner that feels as special as it tastes.