Description
This Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops recipe features perfectly pan-seared sea scallops cooked in a rich and flavorful garlic lemon butter sauce. With a quick prep and cook time, this elegant dish is ideal for a special dinner or a delightful seafood treat, boasting a golden crust, vibrant citrus notes, and a fresh parsley garnish.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 1 lb sea scallops
Cooking Fats and Oils
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Flavorings and Seasonings
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Scallops: Pat the sea scallops thoroughly dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper.
- Heat Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter and allow them to heat until the butter melts and begins to sizzle.
- Sear Scallops First Side: Gently place the scallops in the hot skillet without overcrowding. Let them sear for 2 to 3 minutes on the first side until they develop a golden brown crust.
- Flip Scallops: Carefully flip each scallop over to sear the other side for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, ensuring they are cooked through with a tender interior.
- Add Garlic and Butter: Add the minced garlic and the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet. As the butter melts, spoon the fragrant garlic butter over the scallops to infuse flavor as they finish cooking.
- Deglaze with Lemon Juice: Pour the fresh lemon juice into the pan to deglaze, stirring the mixture to combine with the butter and garlic, creating a savory lemon butter sauce.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the scallops from the pan and plate them. Spoon the garlic lemon butter sauce generously over the top and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, herbal finish.
- Enjoy Immediately: Serve the scallops immediately to enjoy the best texture and full flavor of this exquisite dish.
Notes
- Ensure scallops are very dry before searing to achieve a perfect golden crust.
- Do not overcrowd the pan to allow even cooking and browning.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor in the butter sauce.
- Serve immediately as scallops tend to toughen when reheated.
- Can be paired well with rice, pasta, or a fresh green salad.
