Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops – Share the savors of the ocean with our recipe, for Seared Scallops in a Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce. These succulent sea scallops are expertly seared to perfection and infused with the fragrance of garlic and tangy lemon all enveloped in a butter sauce. With a few elements and a brief cooking time of just 10 minutes, this dish is an unconditional treat for seafood aficionados. Venture on an experience as we steer you through the measures to construct this seafood chef-d’oeuvre.
There’s something about trying out a new recipe, for the first time and I can still vividly recall the day I decided to give Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops a shot. The enticing aroma of sizzling garlic and butter wafted through my kitchen as those scallops hit the hot skillet. The moment I took my bite I instantly knew that this dish was something extraordinary. Not did it win me over completely. It also managed to allure the taste buds of my husband and child. Their smiles and expressions of happiness served as evidence that this recipe was an absolute champion.
What makes this Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops truly special?
What truly sets these Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops apart is their simplicity, flavors and remarkably quick preparation time. With a handful of ingredients including sea scallops, fragrant garlic cloves and zingy lemon zest you can effortlessly recreate a restaurant-worthy dish right in your own home. The searing method creates a crust, on the scallops and the combination of garlic and lemon butter sauce adds a burst of delicious flavor. This dish is ideal, for either a weeknight meal or a memorable celebration.
What You Need To Make This Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops Recipe?
Sea Scallops: These gems, from the sea take center stage. When choosing your scallops opt for plump ones. Don’t forget to remove the side muscle for a tender and delightful bite. Imagine them as packages bursting with flavors awaiting your culinary expertise.
Olive Oil or Canola Oil: The choice of oil plays a role in achieving that sear. Each option brings its nuances to the dish. Olive oil adds a fruity and robust undertone while canola oil provides a backdrop for the scallops flavors to shine through. The decision is up to you!
Butter: Ah, butter the epitome of richness and indulgence. This ingredient acts as a bridge that elevates the dish to gourmet status. It not only enhances the texture of the scallops. Also imparts a creamy and velvety goodness that will make your taste buds dance with delight.
Garlic: The minced garlic introduces an aromatic element to our scallop tale. As it sizzles in the pan it releases its allure transforming your kitchen into a haven of enticing scents. It’s, like a whisper that takes these scallops to heights.
Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice: So zesty and vibrant the squeezed lemon juice brings a burst of citrusy delight, to our symphony. It’s like the soul of the sauce adding that touch that beautifully complements the succulent scallops. Just a squeeze of lemon feels like a ray of sunshine on your plate.
Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Your Choice): For that touch of freshness whether it’s the green parsley or your personal favorite herb it adds a pop of color and a burst of flavor to this dish. These herbs act like artists giving those finishing touches and turning your scallops into both visual and gastronomic masterpieces.
Salt and Fresh Ground Black Pepper: These two humble seasonings play roles in creating balance. Salt enhances all the flavors present while the gentle kick, from ground pepper, adds just a hint of spice that dances harmoniously with other ingredients. Together they make sure every bite is perfectly seasoned.
Steps To Make Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops:
Step 1: Start by patting the sea scallops dry using paper towels and sprinkle them lightly with a pinch of sea salt just before you start cooking.
Step 2: Take a sauté pan. Cast iron skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Add some olive oil and one tablespoon of butter, to the pan. Let the fat heat up until it’s almost smoking.
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Step 3: Place the scallops in the pan. Let them sear for about 1 1/2 to 2 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden crust. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; cook them in batches if necessary. Once they are cooked, transfer them to a plate.
Step 4: Clean the skillet by wiping it and put it on heat. Add two tablespoons of butter over low heat. Sauté the minced garlic until it becomes fragrant (approximately 1 minute).
Step 5: Pour in some lemon juice. Return the seared scallops to the pan. Let them warm up for 1 to 2 minutes turning them several times so that they get nicely coated with the delicious lemon butter sauce.
Step 6: Sprinkle some chopped parsley over the scallops, season, with salt and pepper according to your taste. Serve immediately.
Tip:
To achieve a sear on your scallops it’s crucial to ensure they are completely dry, before cooking. Here’s why it matters:
Preventing Steaming: Scallops naturally contain some moisture. If they’re wet when added to a pan that moisture can create steam. This steam interferes with the process. Can result in scallops that are less golden and slightly rubbery instead of having a beautifully caramelized crust.
Enhancing Flavor and Texture: Dry scallops sear effectively because the surface can get hot and develop that crust. This searing action not only seals in the sweetness and flavors of the scallop but also creates a contrast in texture between the crispy exterior and the tender juicy interior.
To implement this tip simply use paper towels to pat your scallops dry, on both sides just before cooking. It’s a step that can make a difference in the overall quality and presentation of your Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops. Dry scallops will sear beautifully ensuring your dish becomes a masterpiece!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
While it’s ideal to use sea scallops, for the flavor and texture you can certainly use frozen scallops if that’s what you have available. Just make sure to thaw them and pat them dry before cooking.
What side dishes pair well with Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops?
This dish goes well with sides, like asparagus cooked in butter a refreshing garden salad or creamy mashed potatoes.
Can I substitute the lemon juice with lime or another citrus?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with citrus flavors according to your taste preferences. Lime juice can add a twist to this recipe.
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 pound 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 freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Scallops: Use paper towels to pat dry the sea scallops and lightly season them with a pinch of sea salt.
- Sear the Scallops: Heat a pan, over medium-high heat add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter and let it become hot. Place the scallops in the pan. Cook them on each side for 2 minutes until they turn golden brown and develop a nice crust. If necessary cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Create the Sauce: Take out the scallops from the pan. Set them aside. Clean the pan add 2 tablespoons of butter over low heat and sauté minced garlic until it becomes fragrant (around 1 minute). Then pour in lemon juice. Return the scallops to the pan. Allow them to heat for another 1 to 2 minutes while turning them to coat with the lemon butter sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle your herbs (like parsley) over the scallops, season, with salt and pepper according to your taste plate your Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops immediately and savor your delightful seafood creation!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
