Surf and Turf for Special Occasions

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Surf and Turf for Special Occasions

Chelsea Payne

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-01-04T11:40:09.009Z

Surf and Turf is a classic dish that combines the best of both land and sea, making it perfect for special occasions. With juicy steaks paired with succulent shrimp or lobster, it's a luxurious meal that impresses and delights. This recipe is designed to bring a taste of fine dining to your home, perfect for anniversaries, birthdays, or any celebration where you want to make a lasting impression.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • A delightful combination of steak and seafood that tantalizes the taste buds
  • Impressive presentation that elevates any dining experience
  • Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite sauces and sides

The Perfect Combination of Flavors

Surf and Turf is a culinary masterpiece that marries the rich, savory flavors of steak with the delicate, briny taste of seafood. This dish appeals to both meat lovers and seafood enthusiasts, making it a popular choice for special occasions. The contrast in textures—juicy, tender steak paired with succulent shrimp—creates a delightful dining experience that is sure to impress.

This recipe allows for customization based on personal preferences. Whether you prefer ribeye steaks or filet mignon, you can choose the cut that best suits your taste. Likewise, varying the type of seafood, from lobster to scallops, opens up a world of possibilities. This versatility ensures that every meal can be unique, keeping your dining experiences fresh and exciting.

Impressive Presentation

One of the standout features of Surf and Turf is its stunning presentation. The vibrant colors of perfectly cooked shrimp against the rich, dark sear of the steak create an eye-catching plate that looks as good as it tastes. Elevating the dish with a drizzle of homemade sauce adds a gourmet touch, making it ideal for entertaining guests or celebrating special milestones.

To enhance the visual appeal, consider garnishing the dish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges. Serve it on elegant dinnerware to create an inviting atmosphere. The presentation alone will have your guests marveling at your culinary skills, setting the stage for a memorable dining experience.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the rich flavors of Surf and Turf, selecting the right side dishes is essential. Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic roasted vegetables make excellent partners, providing balance to the meal. A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also add a refreshing contrast, enhancing the overall dining experience.

When it comes to wine pairings, a bold red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, enhances the steak's flavor. Alternatively, a crisp white wine, like Chardonnay, can beautifully complement the seafood. Offering a choice of drinks will elevate your meal, ensuring every guest finds something to savor.

Ingredients

Ingredients

For the Steak and Seafood

  • 2 ribeye steaks (about 1 inch thick)
  • 8 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

For the Sauce

  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

Make sure to use the freshest ingredients for the best results!

Instructions

Instructions

Prepare the Steak

Season the ribeye steaks generously with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steaks and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare.

Remove from the skillet and let rest.

Cook the Shrimp

In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, then add the shrimp. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Sprinkle with parsley.

Make the Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and hot sauce. Cook for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.

Plate and Serve

Slice the steaks and arrange them on plates. Top with the sautéed shrimp and drizzle with the sauce. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.

Enjoy your gourmet meal with a glass of wine!

Tips for Perfect Steak

Achieving the perfect steak requires attention to detail. Start by allowing the ribeye steaks to come to room temperature before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking throughout. When seasoning, don't be shy with salt and pepper; a generous coating enhances the steak's natural flavor.

Using a meat thermometer can help you achieve the desired doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F. Allow the steaks to rest after cooking to let the juices redistribute, leading to a more flavorful and tender bite.

Enhancing the Sauce

The sauce is a crucial component of this dish, adding richness and depth. Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients to tailor the flavor profile to your liking. For a touch of sweetness, consider adding a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar to the butter sauce.

If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of hot sauce or add a dash of cayenne pepper. Fresh herbs, such as thyme or basil, can also elevate the sauce, bringing a fresh aroma that complements the surf and turf beautifully.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, proper storage is key to maintaining flavor and texture. Store the steak and shrimp separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They can typically be kept for up to three days. To reheat, use a skillet over low heat to preserve the juiciness of the steak and prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.

For a quick meal, consider repurposing leftovers into a delicious stir-fry or salad. The flavors of the steak and shrimp can be combined with fresh vegetables and a light dressing for a satisfying lunch or dinner option, ensuring that nothing goes to waste.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different cuts of steak?

Yes, you can substitute ribeye with filet mignon or sirloin, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

→ What seafood can I use besides shrimp?

Lobster tails or scallops are excellent alternatives for this recipe.

→ How can I make this dish more flavorful?

Marinating the steak for a few hours or overnight can enhance its flavor significantly.

→ Is this recipe suitable for a dinner party?

Absolutely! It's an impressive dish that is sure to wow your guests.

Surf and Turf for Special Occasions

Surf and Turf for Special Occasions

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time50 minutes

Created by: Chelsea Payne

Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Steak and Seafood

  1. 2 ribeye steaks (about 1 inch thick)
  2. 8 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  3. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  4. Salt and pepper, to taste
  5. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  6. 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

For the Sauce

  1. 1/2 cup butter
  2. 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  3. Juice of 1 lemon
  4. 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

Season the ribeye steaks generously with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steaks and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Remove from the skillet and let rest.

Step 02

In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, then add the shrimp. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Sprinkle with parsley.

Step 03

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and hot sauce. Cook for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 04

Slice the steaks and arrange them on plates. Top with the sautéed shrimp and drizzle with the sauce. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 600 kcal
  • Total Fat: 40g
  • Saturated Fat: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 220mg
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 47g