Seared Scallops with Lemon-Butter Sauce
Seared scallops with lemon-butter sauce is a delightful and elegant dish that is surprisingly easy to prepare at home. These tender, juicy scallops are cooked to perfection and paired with a zesty, buttery sauce that brings out their natural sweetness. Perfect for a special dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe will impress your family and friends.
Why make this recipe?
This recipe is not only delicious but also quick to make! You can whip it up in about 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. The combination of rich butter, bright lemon, and savory garlic complements the scallops beautifully. If you love seafood, this dish will be a new favorite!
How to prepare Seared Scallops with Lemon-Butter Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1 pound sea scallops 🐚
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
- 2 tablespoons olive oil 🫒
- 4 tablespoons butter 🧈
- 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon 🍋
- Chopped parsley for garnish 🌿
Instructions:
- Prepare the scallops: Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until hot.
- Sear the scallops: Carefully add the scallops to the pan in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch. Sear for about 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown. Flip them over and cook for another 2-3 minutes until cooked through and opaque. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same pan, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add lemon: Stir in the lemon juice and zest. Let it cook for an additional minute.
- Combine: Return the scallops to the pan and gently coat them in the lemon-butter sauce.
- Garnish: Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
How to serve Seared Scallops with Lemon-Butter Sauce
Serve the scallops hot, drizzled with the lemon-butter sauce. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of creamy risotto, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it over pasta for a heartier meal.
How to store Seared Scallops with Lemon-Butter Sauce
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
Tips for preparing Seared Scallops with Lemon-Butter Sauce
- Make sure the scallops are dry before cooking them for a perfect sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if you have too many scallops.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
Variations
You can add other flavors to the lemon-butter sauce, such as capers, white wine, or crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat. You can also substitute the parsley with other herbs like dill or cilantro for a different twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
2. What should I serve with scallops?
Scallops pair well with risotto, pasta, fresh vegetables, or a simple salad.
3. How can I tell when the scallops are done cooking?
Scallops are done when they are opaque throughout and lightly browned on the outside. They should be firm to the touch but not rubbery.
Enjoy making this stunning dish that is sure to impress! 🍽️