These seared lemon garlic butter scallops are a real treat! They’re perfectly cooked, juicy, and packed with zesty flavor. You’ll love how quickly they come together!
Honestly, it feels like gourmet dining at home. And who can resist that buttery, garlicky goodness? I often serve them over pasta for a fancy touch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sea Scallops: The star of the dish! Fresh or frozen scallops can be used, but make sure to thaw frozen ones in the fridge for a few hours. If you can’t find scallops, shrimp could be a good alternative, though the cooking times will vary.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps achieve a great sear. If you’re avoiding olive oil, avocado oil works well too, as it has a high smoke point.
Unsalted Butter: Use unsalted for better control over the seasoning. You can substitute with ghee or plant-based butter for a dairy-free option, though this will change the flavor slightly.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is a must for flavor! If garlic is an issue, try using garlic powder or omitting it altogether – though it won’t be as punchy.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemon is best for that bright flavor. If fresh isn’t available, bottled juice can work, but use it sparingly. Lime can also substitute if you’re feeling adventurous!
How Do I Get a Perfect Sear on Scallops?
Getting a golden-brown sear on your scallops is key to this dish! Start with dry scallops – moisture will steam them instead of searing. Here’s how to do it:
- Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. This is a game changer!
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot. The oil should shimmer, indicating it’s hot enough.
- Add scallops in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes on one side.
- Flip carefully using tongs or a spatula. You want a nice crust to develop!
These steps will ensure your scallops are beautifully golden on the outside while tender on the inside. Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Seared Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Scallops:
- 1 pound sea scallops, patted dry
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- For the Cooking Mixture:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and approximately 10 minutes of cooking time. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious seafood dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Scallops:
Start by patting your scallops dry with paper towels. Getting them dry is key to achieving a nice sear. Once they’re dry, sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides to season them perfectly.
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat until it shimmers. This means it’s just about ready for cooking!
3. Sear the Scallops:
Carefully place the scallops in the skillet in a single layer. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan because this will affect how well they sear. Cook for about 2-3 minutes without stirring them. You want them to turn a lovely golden brown color and get that caramelized look.
4. Flip and Add Flavor:
Once the first side is nicely browned, flip the scallops over. Now, add in the butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook these together for another 1-2 minutes, making sure to baste the scallops with the melted butter mixture for that extra flavor.
5. Finishing Touches:
When the scallops are opaque and cooked through, take them off the heat. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top for a fresh touch.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your scallops immediately, garnished with lemon slices and any additional parsley if you like. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Frozen Scallops for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water for a quicker method. After thawing, pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a nice sear.
What Can I Substitute for Unsalted Butter?
If you need a substitute for unsalted butter, you can use olive oil, ghee, or even a dairy-free butter alternative. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor, but will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftover Scallops?
Store any leftover scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent them from becoming tough or rubbery. If they seem dry, add a splash of the lemon garlic butter mixture to help revive them!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Scallops?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes to the skillet while cooking the scallops for a complete meal. Just be mindful of the cooking times; add veggies that cook quickly to avoid overcooking the scallops.
