Lemon Butter Scallops Recipe
This Lemon Butter Scallops recipe features tender sea scallops seared to golden perfection and served with a vibrant lemon butter sauce infused with garlic and fresh parsley. It’s a quick, elegant dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Scallops
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 pound sea scallops
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Lemon Butter Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan and Butter: Melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium high heat to get it ready for searing the scallops.
- Clean the Scallops: Remove the small side muscle from each scallop, rinse them briefly under cold water, and then thoroughly pat them dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
- Season and Sear the Scallops: Season the scallops generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add them to the hot skillet in batches, making sure not to crowd the pan. Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes until the scallops develop a golden brown crust and are translucent in the center. Remove from skillet and keep warm.
- Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in 3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Plate the scallops immediately and spoon the lemon butter sauce over them. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure scallops are completely dry before searing to achieve a perfect golden crust.
- Cook scallops in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can cause steaming instead of searing.
- Fresh lemon juice is key for the sauce’s bright flavor; avoid bottled lemon juice if possible.
- Use a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan for an even sear.
- Serve immediately for best texture; scallops can become rubbery if overcooked or held too long.
Keywords: Lemon Butter Scallops, Seared Scallops, Quick Seafood Recipe, Garlic Butter Sauce, Easy Dinner
Find it online: https://mjrecipe.com/lemon-butter-scallops-recipe/