Description
Succulent lemon butter scallops elevate simple seafood into a gourmet experience that sings with Mediterranean flavors. Delicate scallops bathed in garlic-infused butter and zesty lemon promise restaurant-quality dining right at home.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 pound (450g) sea scallops, side muscle removed
Cooking Fats:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
Aromatics and Seasonings:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Thoroughly dry the scallops using paper towels to eliminate excess moisture, then generously season both surfaces with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat until it’s visibly hot and shimmering.
- Carefully place scallops into the skillet in a single, uncrowded layer, allowing each piece ample space for proper caramelization.
- Sear the scallops for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side, watching for a rich golden-brown exterior and translucent center.
- Gently transfer the perfectly seared scallops to a separate plate, keeping them warm.
- Using the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt butter, creating a smooth, silky base for the sauce.
- Introduce minced garlic to the melted butter, stirring continuously to prevent burning and release its aromatic qualities.
- Pour fresh lemon juice into the skillet, allowing the liquid to simmer and integrate with the butter and garlic.
- Taste and adjust the sauce with additional salt and pepper to enhance the flavor profile.
- Delicately return the seared scallops to the skillet, gently coating them in the vibrant lemon butter sauce.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the scallops for a burst of color and herbaceous note.
- Plate immediately, garnishing with extra parsley and optional lemon wedges for a bright, citrusy finish.
Notes
- Moisture Matters: Pat scallops thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess liquid, ensuring a perfect golden-brown sear without steaming.
- Precision in Cooking: Use a hot skillet and avoid overcrowding to achieve a crispy exterior while maintaining a tender, delicate interior.
- Temperature Control: Cook scallops for exactly 2-3 minutes per side to prevent overcooking, which can make them tough and rubbery.
- Dietary Adaptations: For a dairy-free version, replace butter with olive oil or coconut oil, maintaining the dish’s rich flavor profile while accommodating different dietary needs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg