SURF AND TURF FOR TWO

WineCheeseScallops
11 hours ago
4 min read

This Valentine’s Day Surf and Turf for Two is everything a romantic dinner at home should be—elegant, indulgent, and surprisingly simple to pull off. Tender beef tenderloin seared to perfection pairs beautifully with prosciutto-wrapped shrimp, broiled until crisp and finished with a bright pop of lemon and thyme. It’s a restaurant-worthy plate without the reservation stress.

Steak with herbs and green sauce on a black plate, served alongside bacon-wrapped shrimp, creating a gourmet and savory presentation.

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Designed specifically for two, this dish feels intentional and special, making it perfect for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or any night you want to slow down and celebrate good food together. Add a spoonful of pesto, pour a glass of wine, and let the evening unfold.

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Beef Tenderloin

Beef tenderloin is prized for its tenderness and clean, buttery flavor. Searing it in a hot pan before finishing in the oven creates a beautifully caramelized crust while keeping the inside juicy and perfectly cooked. It’s a classic choice for special occasions—and worth every bite.

Hands with pink nails season raw steak with salt on a plate. Aluminum foil tray in background, creating a cozy cooking atmosphere.

Prosciutto

Prosciutto adds a salty, savory contrast to the sweet shrimp. When broiled, it crisps beautifully, wrapping the shrimp in rich flavor while locking in moisture. It’s an easy way to elevate seafood with minimal effort.

Raw shrimp in a glass bowl with fresh lemon, herbs, sauce, and steak on a wooden surface, creating a fresh and vibrant cooking scene.

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Recipe Origin / Inspiration

Surf and turf has long been a celebration dish—often reserved for steakhouses and special nights out. This version was created to bring that experience home in a way that feels achievable, intimate, and thoughtful.

Raw shrimp marinating in a glass bowl with olive oil, herbs, and spices on a wooden surface. The scene is fresh and appetizing.

By keeping the ingredient list focused and the portions designed for two, this recipe captures the spirit of Valentine’s Day cooking: elevated, romantic, and meant to be shared. No reservations required.

Two raw steaks with salt, pepper, and thyme on a plate. A knife and a bowl of marinade are nearby on a wooden surface.

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Tips, Serving Suggestions, & Storage

Hands with pink nails wrap shrimp in prosciutto on foil. Shiny background, focus on detailed textures and colors. Cooking preparation.

Pat the steaks dry before seasoning for the best sear.
Let the beef come to room temperature before cooking.
Use an ovenproof skillet for easy stovetop-to-oven cooking.
Press thyme sprigs gently into the steak for aromatic flavor.
Do not overcrowd the shrimp on the broiler pan.
Watch shrimp closely under the broiler to prevent overcooking.
Always rest the steak before slicing to retain juices.
Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy.
Serve pesto at room temperature for best flavor.
This dish is best enjoyed fresh and is not ideal for storage.

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Unique Recipe Qualities

Tongs hold a searing steak in a pan with herbs, emitting steam. The setting is a kitchen with a warm, appetizing ambiance.

Perfectly portioned for two.
Steakhouse-style results at home.
Balanced flavors of herb, citrus, and salt.
Elegant without complicated techniques.
Fast cooking time for a special meal.
Crisp prosciutto adds texture contrast.
Minimal ingredients with maximum impact.
Ideal for holidays and anniversaries.
Customizable doneness levels.
Pairs beautifully with classic sides.

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Our Valentine’s Day Surf and Turf for Two

Steak with herbs, bacon-wrapped shrimp, and green pesto sauce on a black plate. Close-up shot, highlighting rich textures and colors.

Ingredients

¼ cup jarred pesto of your choice
6 jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails intact
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Juice of ½ lemon
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme, plus 2–3 whole sprigs
Freshly ground black pepper
3 slices prosciutto (about 2 ounces), halved lengthwise
2 (8-ounce) beef tenderloin steaks, trimmed
Sea salt, to taste
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425°F.
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, lemon juice, chopped thyme, and black pepper. Wrap each shrimp with half a slice of prosciutto and arrange on a foil-lined broiler pan.
Season the beef tenderloin generously with sea salt and pepper. Press the thyme sprigs gently into the steaks and set aside.
Heat a medium ovenproof skillet over high heat and add the butter. Once the foam subsides, sear the steaks until golden brown, about 2½ minutes per side. Using tongs, briefly sear the sides as well.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast until an internal temperature of 125°F is reached for medium-rare, about 6–7 minutes. Remove from the oven and transfer steaks to a cutting board to rest.
Turn on the broiler and broil the shrimp until the prosciutto is crisp and the shrimp are cooked through, about 2 minutes per side.
Serve the steak and shrimp with a dollop of pesto and your choice of sides such as roasted asparagus, mashed potatoes, or celery root purée.

Steak Doneness Guide

Rare: Sear 5 minutes, roast 5 minutes, rest 5 minutes
Medium Rare: Sear 5 minutes, roast 7 minutes, rest 5 minutes
Medium: Sear 5 minutes, roast 9 minutes, rest 5 minutes

Close-up of bacon-wrapped shrimp beside a vibrant green pesto sauce on a dark plate. The mood is appetizing and colorful.

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