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.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- Preparation: Pat scallops completely dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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