Ultimate Surf and Turf Spread

Name: Ultimate Surf and Turf Spread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb beef tenderloin, trimmed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped; Lemon wedges, for serving

Highlighted under: Holiday Meal Recipes

I absolutely adore bringing together vibrant flavors from both land and sea, and this Ultimate Surf and Turf Spread is my favorite way to do it! Combining juicy beef and tender seafood creates a luxurious experience that's perfect for gatherings. The blend of textures and rich flavors, paired with a hint of garlic and herbs, transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable dish. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy meal at home, this spread never fails to impress my guests—and it’s so much fun to make!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-06T19:22:30.754Z

When I first crafted this Ultimate Surf and Turf Spread, I intended to create a harmonious balance between the rich and the delicate. I found that marinating both the steak and the shrimp in a robust garlic-herb mixture not only enhances their individual flavors but allows them to complement each other beautifully. The marinade is a simple mixture that elevates this dish significantly.

One of my best tips is to cook the steak to your desired doneness before searing the shrimp. I often find myself cooking everything to perfection by managing my time wisely in the kitchen. This dish truly brings together the best of both worlds, and it always leaves my guests raving!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A delightful blend of flavors from both land and sea
Elegant presentation that impresses at any gathering
Versatile enough to suit various tastes and preferences

      

Mastering the Marinade

The marinade plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavor of the beef tenderloin. Olive oil serves as a base that not only adds richness but also helps to carry the flavors of garlic and rosemary deeply into the meat. I recommend letting the beef marinate for at least 10 minutes; however, if time permits, extending it to 30 minutes can intensify the flavors even further. Just make sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.

When marinating, be sure to massage the mixture into the tenderloin thoroughly to ensure every inch is infused with the aromatic garlic and fresh rosemary. As you prepare to cook the beef, give it a quick room temperature check—allowing it to sit for around 15 minutes helps in achieving an even cook. A well-marinated beef will produce a tasty crust while remaining tender and juicy inside.

Cooking Perfect Shrimp

Cooking the shrimp in the same skillet as the beef not only saves dishes but also introduces a delightful layer of flavor to the seafood. After searing the beef, use the residual heat and drippings to melt your butter, which adds complexity and richness to the shrimp. Be cautious with the heat level—medium is ideal to ensure the butter doesn’t burn while still achieving that perfect, golden shrimp color.

When adding the shrimp, look for that telltale pink color and opaque texture, which indicates that they are fully cooked. This should take about 5-7 minutes, depending on the size of your shrimp. If they begin to curl tightly, this is a sign they might be overcooked, so it’s better to err on the side of caution and remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant presentation at your gathering, slice the rested beef into thin strips and fan it elegantly around the platter. Layer the shrimp attractively in the center. The contrast of colors and shapes not only looks appealing but also adds a touch of sophistication to your table. Garnishing with fresh chopped parsley brightens the dish and offers a refreshing note against the rich flavors of beef and seafood.

Consider serving this Ultimate Surf and Turf Spread with complementary sides such as a zesty arugula salad or creamy garlic mashed potatoes, which can serve to soak up any additional juices. If you want to elevate this dish further, serve it with a homemade garlic aioli or horseradish sauce for dipping. Not only does it add an extra flavor punch, but it also invites your guests to customize their bites!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Ultimate Surf and Turf Spread:

For the Beef:

1 lb beef tenderloin, trimmed
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Shrimp:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt, to taste

For Garnishing:

Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges, for serving

Make sure to have all ingredients ready to go before you start.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Ultimate Surf and Turf Spread:

Marinate the Beef

In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture onto the beef tenderloin and marinate for at least 10 minutes.

Cook the Beef

Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated beef on all sides for about 10-15 minutes or until your desired doneness. Remove from the skillet and let it rest.

Prepare the Shrimp

In the same skillet, melt butter and add the shrimp. Season with lemon juice, paprika, and salt. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.

Slice and Serve

Once the beef has rested, slice it thinly. Arrange the beef and shrimp on a serving platter, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.

Enjoy your delicious creation!

Pro Tips

Pair this spread with a refreshing arugula salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

If beef tenderloin is not available, you can substitute it with ribeye or filet mignon, both offering rich flavors and tenderness that work well in this recipe. For a lighter option, try using pork tenderloin, balancing it with the seafood will still allow for a delightful surf-and-turf experience. Just remember that cooking times may vary, so keep a close watch as you cook.

For the shrimp, if you prefer a different seafood option, consider scallops or lobster tails, which will also keep the luxurious theme intact. Should you choose scallops, cook them similarly to shrimp, aiming for a golden crust, and watch the timing closely as they can cook faster than shrimp.

Make-Ahead Tips

To streamline your meal preparation, you can marinate the beef up to 24 hours in advance. This not only saves time but also allows flavors to deepen and develop. Keep the marinated beef covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. However, I recommend cooking the shrimp fresh before serving for the best taste and texture.

If you have leftovers, both the beef and shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying them out. You can also revive the dish with a splash of butter or olive oil when reheating, which helps retain moisture and enhance flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of steak?

Absolutely! You can substitute the beef tenderloin with ribeye or sirloin for different flavor profiles.

→ What other seafood can I use?

Feel free to use scallops or lobster for a luxurious twist on this recipe.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

While the beef and shrimp are best enjoyed fresh, you can marinate the beef a few hours in advance.

→ What sides go well with this dish?

A side of grilled vegetables or a light pasta salad would pair wonderfully with the flavors of this spread.