Quick Lemon Butter Scallops Recipe: Ocean’s Fancy Elegance

Seafood enthusiasts savor these delicate lemon butter scallops that bring restaurant-quality magic to your home kitchen.

Perfectly seared scallops dance with bright citrus notes and rich, silky butter.

Each golden-brown morsel promises a luxurious culinary experience that melts in your mouth.

Fresh ingredients make all the difference in this simple yet sophisticated dish.

The recipe delivers restaurant-level elegance without complex techniques or hours of preparation.

Serve these scallops as an impressive appetizer or stunning main course that will delight dinner companions.

Prepare to elevate your cooking skills with this effortless, mouthwatering seafood sensation.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Calories: 350 kcal

Servings: 4

Ingredients That Make Lemon Butter Scallops Shine

• Scallops: Fresh, sweet seafood that provides the main protein; look for plump, ivory-colored scallops with a mild ocean scent.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Classic seasonings that intensify natural seafood richness; use freshly ground black pepper for maximum flavor.
• Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that adds depth and warmth; choose fresh cloves for most vibrant taste.

• Butter: Creates luxurious, silky sauce base; select high-quality unsalted butter for better control of saltiness.
• Lemon: Bright, citrusy component that cuts through richness and elevates seafood's delicate flavor; choose firm, heavy lemons with smooth skin.
• Parsley: Fresh herb that adds color and subtle herbal note; select bright green, crisp leaves without wilting.

Gear That Helps Scallops Sear Just Right

• Large Skillet: Essential for searing scallops and creating the lemon butter sauce with even heat distribution.
• Paper Towels: Perfect for patting scallops dry to ensure a golden brown, crispy exterior.
• Cutting Board: Needed for chopping parsley and preparing lemon wedges.
• Sharp Knife: Helps mince garlic and chop fresh parsley with precision.
• Tongs: Ideal for flipping and handling delicate scallops during cooking.
• Measuring Spoons: Useful for accurately measuring butter and seasoning.

How to Cook Lemon Butter Scallops Flawlessly

• Dry and Season Scallops

Grab your paper towels and gently pat those delicate sea treasures until they’re completely moisture-free. Sprinkle a whisper of salt and pepper across both sides, creating a simple flavor foundation.

• Create Sizzling Golden Crust

Fire up a skillet with a splash of olive oil, bringing it to a searing hot temperature. Carefully place scallops in the pan, giving each one breathing room. Let them dance in the heat for 2-3 minutes per side until they transform into golden-brown beauties with a pearly white center.

• Craft Zesty Butter Sauce

Without cleaning the pan, melt butter and toss in minced garlic, letting its aroma fill your kitchen. Splash in fresh lemon juice, creating a vibrant sauce that sings with brightness. Swirl and season to your taste.

• Final Flavor Fusion

Reunite the scallops with their tangy butter companion, gently coating each piece. Shower with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and herbaceous kick. Slide onto plates immediately, letting the sauce glisten invitingly.

Tips to Boost the Scallop and Butter Combo

• Pat scallops thoroughly with paper towels to achieve a perfect golden-brown crust, preventing steaming and ensuring crispy exterior.
• Replace butter with olive oil or plant-based butter alternatives for lactose-intolerant or vegan diners, maintaining the recipe's rich flavor profile.
• Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine after searing scallops to add depth and complexity to the lemon butter sauce, creating a restaurant-quality finish.
• Experiment with different fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or chives instead of parsley to introduce unique flavor dimensions and personalize the dish to your taste preferences.
• Serve scallops over cauliflower rice or alongside roasted seasonal vegetables for a lighter, keto-friendly meal that doesn't compromise on taste or elegance.

How to Plate Lemon Scallops with Elegance

• Seafood Pairing Paradise: Serve these golden scallops over a bed of creamy risotto for a luxurious meal that combines textures and flavors beautifully.
• Crisp Companion Plate: Pair with a light arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to complement the rich, buttery scallops and cut through their decadence.
• Wine and Dine Delight: Match with a chilled glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which will enhance the bright, zesty lemon notes and delicate seafood flavor.
• Elegant Side Kick: Roast asparagus spears or green beans with a touch of olive oil and sea salt to create a sophisticated vegetable accompaniment that balances the scallops' richness.

How to Save and Reheat Lemon Scallops Properly

• Store cooked scallops in an airtight container within the refrigerator for 1-2 days maximum. Keep the seafood away from other strong-smelling foods to maintain its delicate flavor profile.
• Warm leftover scallops gently in a skillet over low heat with a touch of butter. Avoid microwave reheating to prevent rubbery texture and maintain tender consistency.
• Do not freeze prepared scallops with lemon butter sauce. Raw scallops can be frozen flat in sealed freezer bags for up to three months, but cooking quality might slightly diminish after thawing.
• Select fresh, high-quality scallops from reputable seafood markets or counters. Check for bright, uniform color without strong fishy odors. Purchase scallops on the day of cooking for optimal taste and texture.

FAQs

• Are scallops difficult to cook?

Scallops are surprisingly easy to cook. The key is to pat them dry, use high heat, and avoid overcrowding the pan. Sear them quickly for 2-3 minutes per side to achieve a golden-brown crust without overcooking.

• How do I know when scallops are perfectly cooked?

Perfectly cooked scallops are golden brown on the outside and opaque in the center. They should look slightly translucent and feel slightly firm to the touch. Overcooking makes them tough and rubbery.

• Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen scallops. Thaw them completely in the refrigerator and pat them very dry before cooking. Excess moisture prevents proper searing and can make the scallops steam instead of developing a nice golden crust.

• What type of pan works best for searing scallops?

A heavy-bottomed stainless steel or cast-iron skillet works best for searing scallops. These pans distribute heat evenly and help create a perfect golden-brown crust. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the scallops.

Elegant Lemon Butter Scallops Recipe

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4.8 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Succulent lemon butter scallops showcase delicate seafood perfection from coastal kitchens. Mediterranean-inspired ingredients blend seamlessly, creating a simple yet elegant dish you’ll savor with pure culinary delight.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb (450g) sea scallops, side muscle removed
• 3 tbsps unsalted butter, divided
• 2 tbsps olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsps fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsps chopped fresh parsley
• salt, to taste
• freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Pat scallops completely dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Searing: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s sizzling hot. Arrange scallops in a single, uncrowded layer to ensure optimal caramelization, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown with a translucent center.
3. Sauce Creation: Remove scallops and reduce heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet, adding minced garlic and stirring to prevent burning. Pour in fresh lemon juice, allowing the mixture to simmer and blend harmoniously.
4. Flavor Refinement: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper. Gently return scallops to the skillet, coating them thoroughly in the vibrant lemon butter sauce.
5. Serving: Transfer scallops to serving plates, drizzling remaining sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and optional lemon wedges for a bright, citrusy presentation.

Notes

• Pat Scallops Dry: Moisture removal is crucial for achieving a perfect golden-brown sear, preventing steaming and ensuring crispy exterior.
• High Heat Searing: Use medium-high heat to create beautiful caramelization without overcooking delicate scallops, watching carefully for precise 2-3 minute cooking time.
• Single Layer Technique: Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain proper heat distribution and allow each scallop to develop a rich, even crust.
• Fresh Ingredient Quality: Select fresh, high-quality sea scallops with a sweet, clean ocean smell to guarantee the best possible flavor and texture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 332
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 75mg