Veterans Day is a time for reflection, appreciation, and honor for those who have served. What better way to show gratitude than with a Veterans Day Surf & Turf Skillet — a stunning and indulgent dish that combines perfectly seared steak and succulent, buttery garlic shrimp or lobster. This elegant, yet simple recipe elevates your home cooking game and provides a truly restaurant-quality meal that you can prepare for a loved one, a friend, or yourself.
In this article, we will guide you through every detail of preparing this surf and turf dish. From selecting the right ingredients to cooking each component to perfection, we’ll ensure that your meal is a showstopper. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to make, but impressive enough to serve at any celebration.
What is the Veterans Day Surf & Turf Skillet?
The Veterans Day Surf & Turf Skillet is a luxurious, crowd-pleasing dish that features both land and sea. The “surf” is represented by either shrimp or lobster, while the “turf” is a perfectly cooked steak — typically a ribeye or filet mignon. These two proteins are paired with a rich, buttery sauce flavored with garlic, rosemary, and lemon, creating an explosion of flavors in every bite. It’s the perfect balance of savory, rich, and fresh, making it a delicious choice for a holiday meal like Veterans Day, where you honor and celebrate the people who protect and serve.
Origin of Surf & Turf
The term “surf and turf” has become synonymous with special occasions, but its origins date back to the 1960s in the United States. It was originally a way for upscale steakhouses to offer customers both beef and seafood in one meal, providing an indulgent dining experience. The combination of steak and lobster or shrimp quickly became a favorite among those looking for a luxurious meal, especially for celebratory events.
While the specific history of surf and turf is somewhat murky, it is believed to have been popularized in California, where both high-quality beef and fresh seafood were in abundance. Today, it remains a dish associated with upscale dining, but its appeal has spread to homes across the world, particularly for those looking to celebrate holidays or special occasions like Veterans Day.
Ingredients for Veterans Day Surf & Turf Skillet
This recipe serves 2-4 people, depending on the portion sizes you prefer. Below are the ingredients you will need to make this Veterans Day Surf & Turf Skillet:
For the Steak:
- 2 ribeye or filet mignon steaks (8–10 oz each) – Choose the best cut you can afford. Ribeye is known for its tenderness and flavor due to its marbling, while filet mignon is a leaner option with a more delicate texture.
- 1 tbsp olive oil – For searing the steaks.
- 1 tbsp butter – Adds richness and flavor to the steaks.
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed – For a fragrant, aromatic flavor.
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme – Adds an earthy, aromatic element to the butter for the steaks.
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper – To season the steaks to perfection.
For the Surf (Shrimp or Lobster):
- ½ lb (225 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined – Large shrimp are ideal for this recipe. They should be fresh or properly thawed if frozen.
- 2 lobster tails, halved lengthwise (alternative to shrimp) – Lobster offers a more decadent touch, but you can use either shrimp or lobster depending on availability and your preference.
- 2 tbsp butter – For cooking the seafood in a rich, buttery sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds flavor to the seafood.
- ½ tsp smoked paprika or Old Bay seasoning – This adds a bit of spice and smokiness to the dish.
- Juice of ½ lemon – Brightens the seafood with a refreshing acidity.
- Chopped parsley – For garnish and added freshness.
Step-by-Step Directions & Preparation Method
1. Prep the Steaks
Before you start cooking, let your steaks come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents the steak from becoming tough. While waiting, season both sides of the steaks generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. The seasoning should be enough to enhance the natural flavors of the meat, so don’t be shy with it.
2. Sear the Steaks
Now, let’s get that beautiful sear. Heat a heavy skillet, preferably cast iron, over high heat. The goal here is to get the skillet really hot to achieve a crispy, caramelized exterior on the steaks. Add olive oil to the pan, and immediately place the steaks in the pan. You should hear a satisfying sizzle.
Cook the steaks for about 2–3 minutes per side to achieve a medium-rare doneness. If you prefer your steak more well-done, cook for an additional 1–2 minutes per side. Once the steaks are seared to your liking, add the butter, garlic, and rosemary (or thyme) to the pan. Let the butter melt and then tilt the pan to spoon the flavorful butter over the steaks. This technique is called basting and helps infuse the meat with additional flavor.
Once the steaks are cooked, remove them from the pan and allow them to rest for 5–10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that your steaks remain tender and juicy.
3. Cook the Surf (Shrimp or Lobster)
In the same skillet (don’t clean it — you want to keep all those delicious bits from the steaks), melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
Add the shrimp (or lobster tails) to the skillet. If you’re using shrimp, cook them for about 2–3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. If you’re using lobster, it will take a bit longer, but the same concept applies — cook the seafood until it is firm and opaque.
While the seafood cooks, sprinkle smoked paprika or Old Bay seasoning over it. Paprika adds a smoky depth, while Old Bay gives the dish a classic seafood seasoning flavor. Once the seafood is done, squeeze lemon juice over the top and toss everything to combine. Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
4. Assemble the Plate
Now that everything is cooked, it’s time to plate the dish. Place the steaks on each plate and top them with the garlicky shrimp (or serve the lobster tails alongside the steak). Drizzle the remaining pan butter over the steak for extra flavor and garnish with more parsley.
Suggested Sides for Your Veterans Day Surf & Turf Skillet
To complement your Veterans Day Surf & Turf Skillet, consider serving the following sides for a well-rounded and delicious meal:
- Garlic mashed cauliflower or creamy mashed potatoes: Both are rich and comforting. Cauliflower offers a low-carb alternative.
- Grilled asparagus or buttery green beans: Both vegetables pair wonderfully with steak and seafood, adding crunch and freshness.
- Caesar salad or wedge salad: Crisp, fresh greens with a tangy dressing are perfect to balance the richness of the surf and turf.
- Red wine or sparkling cider: A glass of bold red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon, pairs beautifully with steak, while sparkling cider is a great alcohol-free option.
Tips for a Perfect Surf & Turf Skillet
- Let the steaks come to room temperature: This is crucial for achieving an even cook.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: When searing steaks, it’s important to give each steak enough space in the skillet. Overcrowding prevents a proper sear.
- Baste the steak: Spoon the melted butter over the steak while it cooks to enhance its flavor and moisture.
- Customize the seasoning: If you like things spicy, add some cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the shrimp. For a richer flavor, top the steak with garlic herb butter or hollandaise sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use other cuts of steak for this recipe?
Yes! While ribeye and filet mignon are ideal for this recipe, you can substitute with New York strip, sirloin, or even T-bone. Just be mindful of the cook time based on the thickness of the steak.
Q2: Can I use frozen shrimp or lobster?
Yes, you can use frozen seafood. Just make sure to thaw it properly before cooking. For shrimp, thaw in the fridge overnight or use cold water to quickly defrost.
Q3: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While the steak and seafood are best served fresh, you can prep the garlic butter and season the steaks ahead of time. This will save time on the day of cooking.
Q4: How do I know when my steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer for the most accurate results:
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
- Well done: 160°F (71°C)
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love the Veterans Day Surf & Turf Skillet
The Veterans Day Surf & Turf Skillet is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. With its rich, savory flavors and simple yet elegant presentation, this dish will make any celebration feel special. Whether you’re cooking to honor veterans or simply to indulge in a gourmet meal at home, this surf and turf recipe is sure to impress.
By following the step-by-step instructions, you’ll create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and worthy of any special occasion. So gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and enjoy a memorable meal that’s as bold and patriotic as the occasion it celebrates.
