Seared Scallops with Garlic Lemon Butter

Learn how to create a gourmet dish at home with Seared Scallops with Garlic Lemon Butter. This recipe elevates succulent sea scallops with a flavorful garlic lemon butter sauce, perfect for impressing dinner guests or treating yourself to a restaurant-quality meal.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Seared Scallops with Garlic Lemon Butter allows you to enjoy a luxurious seafood entree without the need for a fancy restaurant. The combination of perfectly seared scallops with a zesty garlic lemon butter sauce creates a dish that is both elegant and delicious.

How to Make Seared Scallops with Garlic Lemon Butter

Ingredients:

• 1 1/4 lb sea scallops, side muscle removed
• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil or canola oil
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1-2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley or other fresh herbs
• Salt and fresh ground black pepper

Directions:

1. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt before cooking.
2. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a sauté pan over medium-high heat. Sear scallops for 1 1/2 – 2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Cook in batches if needed. Remove to a plate.
3. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add lemon juice and return the scallops to the pan. Warm them in the lemon butter for 1-2 minutes, turning them to coat. Season with parsley, salt, and pepper before serving.

How to Serve Seared Scallops with Garlic Lemon Butter

Serve the seared scallops hot, drizzled with the garlic lemon butter sauce. Pair them with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or over a bed of pasta or risotto for a complete meal.

How to Store Seared Scallops with Garlic Lemon Butter

Store any leftover scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a little extra butter to maintain their tenderness.

Tips to Make Seared Scallops with Garlic Lemon Butter

• Ensure the scallops are dry before cooking to achieve a nice sear.
• Do not overcook the scallops to keep them tender and juicy.
• Use fresh garlic and lemon juice for the best flavor in the butter sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe? Fresh scallops are recommended for the best texture and flavor, but you can use thawed frozen scallops if fresh ones are not available.
2. How do I know when scallops are cooked through? Scallops are done when they are opaque and firm to the touch. Avoid overcooking to prevent toughness.
3. Can I substitute other herbs for parsley? Yes, you can use fresh herbs like tarragon, chives, or basil for a different flavor profile in the dish.

Enjoy the simplicity and elegance of Seared Scallops with Garlic Lemon Butter, a dish that brings restaurant-quality seafood to your own kitchen.