If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet simple and quick to prepare, look no further than this Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops recipe. Perfectly seared scallops in a luscious lemon garlic butter sauce are a seafood lover’s dream. The combination of the tender scallops with the tangy lemon, rich butter, and fresh garlic creates a dish that’s both elegant and comforting. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner or just craving something gourmet, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into how to make these melt-in-your-mouth scallops.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb scallops, patted dry
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Scallops:
- Start by patting the scallops dry with paper towels.
- This step is essential to achieve a perfect golden sear.
2. Sear the Scallops:
- Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a spacious skillet set over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully place the scallops in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan (work in batches if necessary).
- Cook the scallops for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, or until they form a crisp, golden-brown exterior.
- Avoid moving them while cooking to ensure a perfect sear.
3. Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic.
- Add the zest of 1 lemon and the juice of the lemon to the skillet. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for about 1 minute.
- Next, stir in the butter and let it melt, creating a rich and silky sauce.
4. Return the Scallops to the Pan:
- Once the butter has melted, return the seared scallops to the skillet. Spoon the lemon garlic butter sauce over the scallops to coat them in the flavor.
- Allow the scallops to cook in the sauce for an additional 1-2 minutes, just enough to warm them through without overcooking.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the scallops.
- Serve the scallops with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrusy goodness. Enjoy them on their own or pair with your favorite sides like a crisp salad, garlic bread, or rice.
Conclusion:
These Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops are a celebration of simple yet luxurious flavors. The golden-brown sear on the scallops combined with the bright and tangy lemon butter sauce creates a dish that’s light, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing this recipe for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, the result is sure to be impressive. Serve these scallops with fresh lemon wedges for added zing, and savor the perfect balance of buttery richness and fresh citrus. Enjoy this delicious recipe, and prepare to indulge!