Use What You Have
Surf and Turf Recipe
Impress anyone you want with this homemade surf and turf dinner that pairs juicy marinated shrimp and succulent grilled steak for a delightful meal. Below is a step-by-step guide to creating this fantastic dish.
What Is Surf and Turf?
"Surf and turf" is a dish that combines both meat and seafood, usually red meat and shellfish. This recipe features grilled filet mignon steaks and shrimp marinated with garlic and white wine, bringing together the best of both worlds.
How to Make Surf and Turf on the Grill
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious surf and turf meal on the grill:
- Step 1: Prepare the marinade. In a bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon olive oil, melted butter, finely minced onion, white wine, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, dried parsley, seafood seasoning, minced garlic, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Step 2: Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Step 3: Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grill grate.
- Step 4: While the grill heats up, coat the filet mignon steaks with 2 teaspoons of olive oil and sprinkle with steak seasoning.
- Step 5: Grill the steaks on the preheated grill for 5 to 7 minutes per side, until they are slightly pink in the center and firm to the touch. For medium doneness, the internal temperature should read 140F (60C). Once cooked, transfer the steaks to a platter and tent loosely with aluminum foil.
- Step 6: Remove the shrimp from the marinade and grill them for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until they turn bright pink and the meat becomes opaque.
- Step 7: Serve the shrimp and steaks together for a delicious surf and turf meal.
Can You Make Surf and Turf in the Oven?
Yes! If you don't have access to a grill, you can use your oven's broiler:
- Step 1: Set your oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source and preheat the broiler.
- Step 2: Cook the steaks under the broiler for about 6 to 8 minutes per side, until they firm up and are hot with a slightly pink center. An instant-read thermometer should read 140F (60C) when inserted into the center.
- Step 3: Transfer the steaks to a platter and loosely cover with foil to keep them warm.
- Step 4: Broil the shrimp for 3 minutes per side until they turn bright pink on the outside and the meat is opaque.
How to Serve Surf and Turf
This surf and turf recipe pairs beautifully with hearty, potato-based side dishes. Consider the following options:
- Basic Mashed Potatoes
- French-Fried Potatoes
- Creamy au Gratin Potatoes
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon finely minced onion
- 1 tablespoon white wine
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon seafood seasoning (such as Old Bay)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 12 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 (4 ounce) filet mignon steaks
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon steak seasoning
Directions
- Gather all ingredients.
- In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, butter, onion, white wine, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, parsley, seafood seasoning, garlic, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate. Coat the steaks with olive oil and sprinkle with steak seasoning.
- Grill the steaks for 5 to 7 minutes per side, until they are slightly pink in the center. Check the temperature with an instant-read thermometer to ensure it reads 140F (60C). Transfer the steaks to a platter and cover with foil.
- Remove the shrimp from the marinade and grill for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque.
- Serve the grilled shrimp and steaks together for a delicious meal.
Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe: 2
- Calories: 444
- Total Fat: 35g (45% Daily Value)
- Saturated Fat: 12g (61% Daily Value)
- Cholesterol: 166mg (55% Daily Value)
- Sodium: 926mg (40% Daily Value)
- Total Carbohydrates: 3g (1% Daily Value)
- Dietary Fiber: 0g (1% Daily Value)
- Protein: 27g (54% Daily Value)
- Vitamin C: 4mg (4% Daily Value)
- Calcium: 48mg (4% Daily Value)
- Iron: 4mg (23% Daily Value)
- Potassium: 385mg (8% Daily Value)
Surf and Turf is a beloved dish that combines the rich flavors of land and sea, pairing succulent red meat with fresh seafood. This dish typically features tender steaks, like filet mignon, alongside marinated shrimp or lobster. It's a luxurious meal that evokes both elegance and comfort, making it perfect for special occasions or an indulgent dinner at home.
History of Surf and Turf
The origins of Surf and Turf are somewhat unclear, but it became popular in the United States in the mid-20th century, particularly in upscale steak houses. The combination of lobster (the "surf") and steak (the "turf") became a symbol of luxury dining, often associated with fine restaurants in coastal areas. Its appeal lies in the perfect contrast between the tender, juicy steak and the sweet, delicate flavor of seafood. Some sources trace the dish back to the 1960s, when it gained popularity during the post-war dining boom, but others suggest that the pairing of beef and shellfish may have existed informally for centuries, especially in coastal communities where both foods were readily available.
Regional Variations
While Surf and Turf is widely associated with American cuisine, regional variations exist, particularly in coastal and farming regions. For example, in the Northeast, lobster is often the seafood choice for the "surf," while in the South, shrimp is more commonly used. In California, the dish may feature a variety of seafood options, including scallops or crab, paired with locally sourced beef like top sirloin or rib-eye. The preparation of the steaks and seafood may also vary depending on local traditionsgrilling is common in the Southern United States, while pan-searing or broiling is more popular in other areas.
Differences from Similar Dishes
While the concept of pairing meat and seafood is not unique to Surf and Turf, what sets it apart is the specific combination of red meat (like filet mignon) and shellfish (commonly shrimp or lobster). This contrasts with other similar dishes such as the British "surf and turf" or the French "buf et fruits de mer," which often combine other cuts of meat or different seafood options. Additionally, Surf and Turf focuses on the simplicity of high-quality ingredients cooked to perfection, rather than complex sauces or garnishes.
Where It's Typically Served
Surf and Turf is commonly found in high-end restaurants, particularly steakhouses, seafood restaurants, and fine dining establishments. It's often considered a celebratory meal and is frequently ordered for special occasions such as anniversaries, holidays, or important business dinners. The dish is also popular at upscale resorts and coastal dining spots, where both fresh seafood and prime cuts of beef are abundant. It's a staple at holiday dinners in many American homes, especially on holidays like Christmas and New Years Eve.
Interesting Facts
- The term "surf and turf" became widely recognized in the 1960s when it was featured on many restaurant menus in the United States.
- In addition to shrimp and lobster, other shellfish such as scallops or crab can be used in Surf and Turf, depending on regional availability.
- Some modern variations of Surf and Turf include non-traditional steaks, such as wagyu beef, paired with exotic seafood like octopus or tuna.
- The combination of steak and seafood is thought to have health benefits, as it provides a balance of proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals.
- Surf and Turf is a popular choice for romantic dinners and is often considered a "luxury meal" due to the cost of the ingredients.
Whether served in a restaurant or prepared at home, Surf and Turf remains a favorite for those looking to enjoy the best of both the ocean and the land. Its combination of flavors, textures, and visual appeal makes it a timeless dish that continues to delight food lovers worldwide.
FAQ about Surf and Turf Recipe
Comments
Brian Lewis
11/07/2022 09:28:03 AM
I found this dish to be quite delightful, especially the marinade used for the shrimp which impressed me greatly. However, I thought the steak was a bit lacking in flavor. It wasn't until my wife mentioned that I had forgotten to season it with steak seasoning that I realized my mistake, so be sure not to skip that step! I cooked this on the Cuisinart Griddler using separate skewers for the steak and shrimp due to their differing cooking times. We paired the dish with "Bahamian Style Peas and Rice" from the same site, which complemented the flavors perfectly.
Katherine Garcia
01/30/2024 02:29:04 PM
When I bookmarked this recipe, I had every intention of preparing the "surf" and "turf" combo. However, since I don't consume much red meat and grew impatient waiting to make it, I opted to just prepare the "surf" part. I chose to use 1 tablespoon of onion powder instead of minced onion based on my personal preference. I grilled the shrimp skewers on my Foreman grill, and they turned out fantastic! I will definitely be making this again.
Joshua Adams
09/02/2024 02:18:55 PM
The best shrimp I have ever tasted! I cooked it in a skillet with olive oil and broccoli.
Maria Mitchell
02/06/2025 01:54:45 PM
When you want to make a lasting impression, this recipe truly shines. I followed the instructions and the end result was stunning. The shrimp was bursting with flavor, incredibly delicious. The steak was perfectly tender and luxurious. This recipe is a definite winner, it will have you uncorking that special bottle of wine you've been saving.
Rachel Harris
12/03/2024 08:56:31 AM
Thoroughly enjoyed preparing....and indulging in! Fantastic recipe!
Aaron Johnson
06/28/2024 06:02:07 AM
Absolutely adored the shrimp marinade. It's now my favorite choice for shrimp! So tasty!
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