Perfect Pan-Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter
This pan-seared scallops recipe delivers perfectlygolden-crusted scallops with a rich garlic butter sauce. It's a quick andelegant dish, perfect for special occasions or a simple, flavorful dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 5 minutes mins
Total Time 15 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Seafood
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal
- 2 tablespoons of oil suitable for high-heat cooking like avocado oil, grapeseed oil, or organic canola oil
- 1 pound of dry sea scallops with the foot removed and thoroughly dried.
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter room temperature
- 1 clove garlic finely chopped
- Freshly chopped parsley for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Prepare the Scallops: Ensure the scallops are thoroughly dry by patting them with a paper towel. Remove the side muscle (the small flap on the scallop) if still attached.
Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the cooking oil over high heat until it just begins to shimmer.
Sear the Scallops: Add the scallops to the skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear them undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes on the first side, until they develop a golden-brown crust.
Flip and Butter: Gently flip the scallops and add the butter and garlic to the skillet. Continue cooking the scallops for another 1-2 minutes while basting them with the melted garlic butter. The scallops should feel firm to the touch but still tender inside.
Serve: Transfer the scallops to a serving plate. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, zesty finish.
Keyword pan-seared scallops