Grilled Surf & Turf Platter

Nothing brings everyone to the table faster than a vibrant surf and turf platter heaped with grilled shrimp, salmon, juicy steak, and colorful vegetables over seasoned rice. This recipe delivers that celebration feel with minimal fuss—each element seared to perfection and drizzled with a luscious creamy garlic sauce. It is an all-in-one meal that works for weeknights and impresses at gatherings.

I first tried pairing shrimp and steak on rice for a summer cookout and it instantly became a family favorite. That creamy sauce gets requests every time.

Ingredients

• Cooked seasoned rice: adds a comforting base for the proteins and soaks up all the juices Always fluff before serving
• Large shrimp: provides a sweet seafood flavor Look for firm fresh-smelling shrimp
• Salmon: brings richness and healthy fats Wild-caught has deep color and better texture
• Steak: delivers that classic savory touch Choose a tender cut like sirloin or ribeye and cut even pieces for even cooking
• Zucchini: brings freshness and color Pick firm glossy zucchini with no soft spots
• Butter: layers depth into every bite Use real unsalted butter for best flavor
• Garlic: adds punch and fragrance Fresh minced garlic makes a big difference
• Olive oil: helps proteins brown beautifully Use extra virgin for subtle fruitiness
• Paprika: gives warmth and color Spanish sweet paprika works wonderfully
• Italian seasoning: offers balanced savory herb notes Use a blend with oregano and thyme for brightness
• Garlic powder and onion powder: round out the flavor for an umami boost Look for brands with no additives
• Salt and black pepper: sharpen all the flavors Use sea salt and freshly cracked pepper
• Fresh parsley: adds a pop of herbal freshness to finish Use flat leaf for best flavor
• Mayonnaise and sour cream: create a creamy base for the sauce Pick full-fat for a richer texture
• Lemon juice: wakes up all the ingredients Use freshly squeezed for zing
• Grated Parmesan: adds salty depth and extra savoriness Shred it yourself for best results

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season all proteins:

Combine shrimp salmon and steak each with paprika Italian seasoning garlic powder onion powder salt and black pepper Coat evenly using your hands You want a visible coating for a flavorful crust

Brown the shrimp:

Heat a large skillet with olive oil and one tablespoon of butter over medium high heat Place shrimp in a single layer Cook for two to three minutes per side until the shrimp are golden firm and opaque Remove and set aside

Sear the salmon:

Add another tablespoon of butter to the hot skillet Add salmon pieces Cook undisturbed for three to four minutes then gently flip Once they are browned and flake easily with a fork remove them Take care not to overcook

Sear the steak:

Add a tablespoon of butter to the skillet Toss in steak pieces Spread out so they develop a nice browned crust Cook for two to four minutes per side based on your preferred doneness In the last minute add minced garlic Stir so the garlic perfumes the steak without burning

Grill the zucchini:

Use the same skillet or a grill pan Arrange sliced zucchini in a single layer Cook until tender and lightly charred flipping as needed Sprinkle with salt and pepper Remove and set aside

Make the creamy garlic sauce:

In a bowl stir together mayonnaise sour cream lemon juice minced garlic chopped parsley grated Parmesan plus salt and pepper Mix until creamy and smooth Taste and adjust seasoning if needed

Warm the rice:

Return rice to the skillet with the last tablespoon of butter and a bit of parsley Stir until heated through and coated with butter This step makes the rice extra flavorful

Assemble the platter:

Spread the warm rice on a large serving platter Arrange shrimp salmon steak and grilled zucchini in separate sections over the rice Drizzle with creamy garlic sauce over everything Garnish with more fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness

I always look forward to the moments when the rice catches all the juices from the steak and shrimp By the end of the meal there is always a battle for those last saucy spoonfuls My dad says it is the best part

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep well in airtight containers for up to three days Refrigerate sauce and rice separately if possible Gently reheat rice and meats in a skillet over medium low heat Drizzle a bit of water or extra cream sauce on the rice to keep it soft

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find salmon cod or another firm white fish works just as well Try chicken breast or tofu for the steak if you prefer The vegetables are flexible too Bell peppers asparagus or mushrooms all roast up nicely alongside or instead of zucchini

Serving Suggestions

Serve this platter family style with lemon wedges and extra sauce on the side If you want to round it out add a simple leafy green salad and crusty bread for any extra sauce Guests always love the option to mix and match their proteins

Cultural Context

Surf and turf tradition blends land and sea in one showstopping meal Popular in steakhouses across the United States it is a nod to coastal abundance and celebration This platter format brings that restaurant ritual home for a more relaxed setting

Recipe FAQs

→ What proteins are included in this platter?

The dish features grilled shrimp, salmon, and steak, all cooked separately to highlight their unique textures and flavors.

→ How should I season the shrimp, salmon, and steak?

Each is seasoned with paprika, Italian herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper for a balanced savory blend.

→ Can the zucchini be grilled instead of pan-cooked?

Yes, grilling the zucchini adds a delicate char and smoky note that pairs well with the surf and turf elements.

→ How do I keep the proteins juicy and tender?

Avoid overcooking; cook shrimp and salmon just until opaque and steak to your preferred doneness, using butter for added moisture.

→ What makes the creamy garlic sauce special?

The sauce combines mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, fresh garlic, parsley, and Parmesan for a tangy, rich finish.

→ How should I assemble the platter for serving?

Spread the seasoned rice on a platter, then arrange shrimp, salmon, steak, and zucchini in generous sections. Drizzle with sauce and garnish with parsley.