Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops

Description

Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops are an elegant yet incredibly simple seafood dish that combines the sweetness of pan-seared scallops with a zesty, buttery, and garlicky sauce. The scallops are seared until golden brown on the outside while tender and juicy on the inside — finished with fresh lemon juice and herbs for a bright, restaurant-quality flavor. Ready in under 15 minutes!

Ingredients For Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops

• 1 lb (450g) large sea scallops, patted dry

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions

1. Prep the scallops:
   Pat scallops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
   Tip: Removing excess moisture ensures a perfect golden sear.

2. Sear the scallops:
   Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   Once hot, add scallops in a single layer (don’t overcrowd).
   Cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and opaque in the center. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the sauce:
   In the same pan, add remaining butter and minced garlic.
   Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t burn the garlic).
   Add lemon juice and zest; stir to deglaze the pan.

4. Combine:
   Return scallops to the pan; spoon sauce over them for 1 minute to coat and heat through.
   Sprinkle with parsley before serving.

5. Serve:
   Plate with extra lemon wedges and serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.

Notes

• Always dry scallops thoroughly before cooking for that beautiful crust.

• Use sea scallops, not bay scallops — they’re larger and meatier.

• Don’t overcook — scallops become rubbery if left too long.

• Stainless steel or cast iron pans work best for a perfect sear.

Tips

✅ Use high heat for quick searing.
✅ Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the sauce for more depth.
✅ For extra flavor, try finishing with a drizzle of brown butter.
✅ Serve immediately — scallops cool fast and lose texture.

Servings

• Serves: 2–3

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Health Benefits

🌿 High in Protein: Excellent lean protein source that supports muscle health.
💛 Heart-Healthy Fats: Butter and olive oil provide beneficial fats in moderation.
🍋 Rich in Vitamins & Minerals: Scallops are a great source of B12, magnesium, and zinc.
🔥 Low-Calorie Gourmet Dish: Satisfying and elegant without being heavy.

Q&A Section

Q1: Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes! Thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight and pat dry before cooking.

Q2: What can I serve with scallops?
Perfect with garlic mashed potatoes, risotto, asparagus, or buttered noodles.

Q3: Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely — use vegan butter or just olive oil instead.

Q4: Why didn’t my scallops brown properly?
They were likely too wet or the pan wasn’t hot enough. Always start with a dry scallop and hot oil.

Q5: Can I meal prep scallops?
They’re best fresh, but you can store cooked scallops in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat gently in a pan.