Surf and Turf Filet Mignon with Lobster Tails

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### **Step-by-Step Instructions**

#### **1. Preparing the Filet Mignon**

Start by prepping your filet mignon steaks. The key to a perfect filet mignon is proper seasoning and a hot cooking surface.

1. **Season the Steaks**: Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a good sear. Generously season both sides of the steaks with **salt** and **freshly ground black pepper**. You can also rub a little olive oil over the surface for extra flavor and a nice crust.

2. **Heat the Skillet**: Heat a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add **olive oil** and allow it to get hot, almost to the smoking point.

3. **Cook the Steaks**: Place the steaks in the skillet and cook for **3-4 minutes per side** for medium-rare, depending on the thickness of the steak. Adjust cooking times for your preferred doneness (e.g., 5-6 minutes per side for medium). Add **butter** and **minced garlic** to the pan during the last minute of cooking for extra flavor. Baste the steak with the melted butter for a rich, golden finish.

4. **Rest the Steaks**: Once cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove the steaks from the skillet and allow them to rest on a plate, covered loosely with foil, for **5-10 minutes**. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the steaks juicy and tender.

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#### **2. Preparing the Lobster Tails**

Lobster tails are surprisingly easy to prepare and cook quickly, making them the perfect complement to filet mignon.

1. **Prep the Lobster Tails**: Using kitchen shears, carefully cut down the center of the lobster tail shell to expose the meat. Gently pull the lobster meat up and out of the shell, leaving the end of the meat attached to the tail. Season the lobster meat with **salt**, **pepper**, and a drizzle of **lemon juice**.

2. **Prepare the Butter Sauce**: In a small saucepan, melt **butter** over low heat. Add the **minced garlic** and let it sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in **fresh parsley**. This will be your flavorful garlic butter sauce.

3. **Cook the Lobster**: Preheat the oven to **425°F (220°C)**, or you can use a grill. Place the prepared lobster tails on a baking dish or grill pan. Brush the lobster meat with the garlic butter sauce, reserving a bit for basting during cooking.

4. **Bake or Grill**: Bake the lobster tails for about **10-12 minutes**, or until the meat is opaque and slightly firm to the touch. If you’re grilling, cook the lobster tails for about **5-6 minutes per side**, basting with the garlic butter during cooking.

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#### **3. Plating and Serving**

Now that both your filet mignon and lobster tails are perfectly cooked, it’s time to plate your dish and bring it all together.

1. **Serve the Steaks**: Place the resting filet mignon steaks on a serving plate.
2. **Top the Lobster**: Gently place a lobster tail next to each steak. Drizzle the remaining garlic butter over the lobster meat for added richness and flavor.
3. **Garnish**: Garnish the dish with fresh **rosemary** or **thyme** for a burst of fragrance. Serve with your choice of **roasted vegetables**, **mashed potatoes**, or **rice** for a complete meal.
4. **Enjoy**: Take a moment to appreciate the beautiful presentation before diving into this luxurious meal!

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### **Tips to Elevate Your Surf and Turf Dish**

– **Upgrade Your Butter**: For an even richer flavor, you can infuse the melted butter with herbs such as **tarragon**, **chives**, or **dill**.
– **Searing the Steak**: For an even better crust on your filet mignon, sear it in a **cast-iron skillet**, which retains heat well and gives a perfect sear.
– **Perfect Sides**: Serve with a side of **garlic mashed potatoes**, **creamy risotto**, or **sautéed spinach** for the ultimate indulgence.
– **Wine Pairing**: To complement the rich flavors of steak and lobster, serve with a bold **Cabernet Sauvignon** or a crisp **Chardonnay**.
– **For Extra Flavor**: Add a **splash of white wine** to the skillet after cooking the steak to make a quick pan sauce to drizzle over both the steak and lobster.

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### **Conclusion**

A **surf and turf filet mignon with lobster tails** is the epitome of luxury dining at home. With perfectly seared steaks, succulent lobster, and a rich garlic butter sauce, this dish combines the best of both worlds in a truly special meal. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply treating yourself to a memorable dinner, this recipe is sure to impress and delight your taste buds.

With just a few ingredients and steps, you can create an extraordinary dining experience that rivals any fine-dining restaurant. So fire up your stove, prep your lobster, and get ready to indulge in a culinary masterpiece!