Introduction
Golden Seared Scallops with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce is an elegant, restaurant-quality dish you can easily recreate at home. The tender and buttery scallops are perfectly seared, achieving a beautiful golden crust on the outside while remaining soft and juicy on the inside. Paired with a luscious garlic lemon butter sauce, this meal bursts with fresh, zesty flavors that elevate the entire dish. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner or an impressive meal for guests, these scallops are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
- 1 lb sea scallops (patted dry)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or thyme, chopped for garnish
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Scallops Begin by ensuring your scallops are as dry as possible. Pat them down with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is critical for achieving a perfect golden sear. Once dry, season both sides of the scallops with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Scallops Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking. Arrange the scallops in the skillet in a single layer, making sure there’s enough space between them. Overcrowding the pan will prevent the scallops from searing properly. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until you see a golden-brown crust form. Once cooked, remove the scallops from the pan and set them aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant but not burnt. Quickly stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest, allowing it to simmer for another minute.
Step 4: Finish the Sauce Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet and stir continuously until the butter melts completely. The sauce should be silky smooth with a lovely blend of garlic and lemon aromas. Once the butter is fully melted and incorporated, remove the skillet from heat.
Step 5: Serve Plate the golden-seared scallops in your desired presentation. Generously drizzle the garlic lemon butter sauce over the scallops. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a touch of color and added flavor. Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and taste.
COOKING Note
To achieve the perfect sear on scallops, make sure they are completely dry before cooking. Any moisture left on the scallops will prevent the formation of a golden crust. Also, resist the temptation to move the scallops while they’re cooking. Let them sear untouched to get that caramelized exterior. If you’re using frozen scallops, ensure they are fully thawed and drained before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Golden Seared Scallops with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. For a light and fresh meal, serve the scallops alongside a simple arugula salad tossed with olive oil and lemon juice. For a heartier dish, you could serve them with creamy mashed potatoes or risotto. For an even more luxurious meal, consider pairing them with a glass of crisp white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
Tips
- Cooking Scallops: Scallops cook very quickly, so keep a close eye on them while searing. Overcooked scallops can become tough and rubbery, so aim for about 2-3 minutes per side for medium-sized scallops.
- Garlic Lovers: If you love garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two to the sauce for an even more robust flavor.
- Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a slightly thicker sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water to the butter sauce.
- Zest Tip: Be careful when zesting the lemon to avoid the white pith, which can be bitter. Use only the bright yellow outer layer of the lemon.
Prep Time
- 5 minutes
Cooking Time
- 10 minutes
Total Time
- 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 220 kcal per serving
- Protein: 18g
- Sodium: 620mg
Conclusion
Golden Seared Scallops with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce is a simple yet elegant dish that you can whip up in under 20 minutes. The key to perfection lies in achieving a golden, crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. The zesty, garlicky butter sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops, creating a flavorful combination that will leave you craving more. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, this dish is sure to impress. The next time you’re in the mood for seafood, give this recipe a try – it’s quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying!
FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use frozen scallops. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before searing to achieve a good crust.
Q: What type of scallops should I use? A: Sea scallops are recommended for this recipe because of their size and tenderness. Bay scallops, which are smaller, can also be used, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as they cook more quickly.
Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time? A: While it’s best to serve the sauce fresh, you can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of lemon juice or water to bring it back to its silky texture.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh lemons? A: Fresh lemons offer the best flavor, but if you don’t have any, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. However, the zest from a fresh lemon adds a lot of flavor, so it’s worth getting one if you can.
If you’re eager to explore a wider variety of mouthwatering recipes, you can click here to uncover a collection of dishes that suit every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for quick and easy meals or something more elaborate, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to elevate your cooking experience!