If you love the bright, buttery flavors of seafood, then this Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. Perfectly caramelized scallops seared to golden perfection, bathed in a luscious garlic-infused lemon butter sauce, and finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley — it’s a dish that’s simple to make yet feels wonderfully elegant. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight or impressing guests over dinner, these scallops deliver a restaurant-quality experience right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops Recipe is both straightforward and rewarding. Each element plays a crucial role, from the tender scallops themselves to the fresh lemon juice that brightens up the creamy garlic butter sauce, ensuring every bite bursts with balanced flavors and perfect texture.
- 1 lb sea scallops: The star of the dish, look for dry scallops for the best searing results.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create that irresistible golden crust.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Prevents the butter from burning during the searing process.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a mellow, aromatic depth to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens the dish with a fresh, tangy finish.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances natural flavors without overpowering the scallops.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a subtle hint of warmth to balance the dish.
How to Make Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Scallops
Start by patting the sea scallops thoroughly dry with paper towels. This is super important because removing excess moisture helps them sear beautifully instead of steaming. Then season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance their natural sweetness.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of butter. The olive oil’s high smoke point protects the butter from burning while still contributing to that golden, flavorful crust you’re aiming for.
Step 3: Sear the Scallops
Once the butter has melted and starts to sizzle, carefully place the scallops in the pan. Make sure not to crowd them so each one has enough space to brown evenly. This step is key for achieving a perfect crust.
Step 4: Cook the First Side
Let the scallops cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until they’re deeply golden brown on the bottom. This caramelization adds incredible flavor and texture.
Step 5: Flip and Add Garlic Butter
Flip the scallops to the other side and immediately add the minced garlic and remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Use a spoon to ladle the fragrant melted garlic butter over each scallop, so they soak up all that richness as they finish cooking.
Step 6: Deglaze with Lemon Juice
Pour in the fresh lemon juice to deglaze the pan, stirring gently to combine it with the butter and garlic. This creates a silky, bright sauce that beautifully complements the sweetness of the scallops.
Step 7: Plate and Garnish
Remove the scallops from the skillet and arrange them on a warm plate. Spoon the luscious lemon garlic butter sauce generously over the top and sprinkle with chopped parsley to add a fresh, colorful finish.
Step 8: Serve Immediately
For the best texture and flavor, serve these Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops right away. The tender scallops and vibrant sauce are at their peak when enjoyed fresh off the stove.
How to Serve Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a lovely green pop of color and a subtle herbal note that balances the dish’s richness. For an extra zest boost, a few lemon wedges on the side never hurt either.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops Recipe pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides. Consider a crisp green salad, garlic asparagus, or creamy risotto. Even a fluffy bed of couscous or crusty bread to mop up the buttery sauce will elevate your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a beautiful presentation, serve scallops over a swirl of pea puree or a delicate pasta tossed in olive oil. Try stacking them with grilled vegetables or arranging them atop a vibrant salad for a colorful, restaurant-worthy plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover scallops, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but proper storage will help keep their delicate flavor intact.
Freezing
Freezing cooked scallops isn’t ideal as it can affect their texture, making them rubbery when thawed. It’s better to freeze fresh scallops before cooking for the best results in the future.
Reheating
To gently reheat scallops without overcooking, warm them briefly in a covered skillet over low heat or in the oven at a low temperature. Avoid the microwave to keep their tender texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture that prevents browning.
How do I know when the scallops are done?
They should be opaque and firm to the touch, with a golden crust on each side, usually after 2-3 minutes per side.
Can I substitute lemon juice with lemon zest?
While lemon zest adds aroma, the juice provides acidity essential for the sauce’s bright flavor, so it’s best not to skip it.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
Dried parsley can be used, but fresh parsley offers a fresher flavor and prettier presentation.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! The Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops Recipe is straightforward and forgiving, making it perfect for cooks at any skill level.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops Recipe is such a delight because it combines simplicity with impressive flavor and elegance. Once you try searing those tender scallops in that addictive lemon garlic butter sauce, you’ll find yourself turning to this dish time and again. Give it a whirl and treat yourself to a truly special seafood experience.
Print
Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops recipe features tender sea scallops cooked to golden perfection in a rich and flavorful garlic lemon butter sauce. Ready in just minutes, it’s a quick and elegant seafood dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 lb sea scallops
Fats & Oils
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Seasonings & Aromatics
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the scallops: Pat the sea scallops thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a good sear. Season both sides evenly with salt and pepper.
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of butter. Allow the butter to melt and become sizzling hot.
- Sear the scallops: Carefully place the scallops into the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them to allow proper browning.
- Cook first side: Let the scallops sear without moving them for 2 to 3 minutes until they develop a golden brown crust, then flip each scallop to sear the other side.
- Add garlic and butter: Add the minced garlic and the remaining tablespoon of butter into the skillet. Spoon the melted garlic butter over the scallops as they finish cooking to infuse flavor.
- Deglaze the pan: Pour in the fresh lemon juice to deglaze the skillet, stirring gently to combine it with the garlic and butter, creating a flavorful sauce.
- Finish and garnish: Remove the scallops from the pan and spoon the lemon garlic butter sauce over them. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve immediately: Serve the scallops immediately to enjoy their perfect texture and bright flavor.
Notes
- Ensure scallops are dry before searing to avoid steaming and achieve a perfect crust.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor impact.
- Serve with a light salad, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper.
