Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops

 Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops

Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops: A Gourmet Delight in Minutes

When it comes to impressive yet simple seafood dishes, Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops stand out as a showstopper. With their rich, buttery flavor and delicate texture, these scallops make an elegant dinner centerpiece or a delightful appetizer. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to prepare in just a few steps.

Perfectly seared scallops boast a golden crust on the outside and a tender, melt-in-your-mouth interior. Paired with zesty garlic lemon butter, this dish offers the perfect balance of savory richness and bright, refreshing flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to something special, this recipe is sure to impress.

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Ingredients (and Why They Matter)

For this recipe, each ingredient plays a key role in enhancing flavor and texture:

1 1/4 lb sea scallops – Choose large, dry-packed sea scallops for the best sear. Dry-packed scallops caramelize beautifully and won’t release excess moisture.

1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil) – This high-smoke-point oil ensures the scallops develop a golden crust without burning.

3 tablespoons butter – Provides rich, creamy flavor and forms the base for the garlic lemon butter sauce.

1–2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the butter sauce with warm, aromatic flavor.

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – Brightens the dish with tangy citrus notes that balance the buttery richness.

2 teaspoons fresh parsley (or other fresh herbs) – Adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.

Salt and fresh ground black pepper – Enhances flavor and balances the natural sweetness of the scallops.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving that coveted golden crust.

Sprinkle the scallops with a pinch of sea salt right before cooking. This seasons them while drawing out moisture for better browning.

Step 2: Sear the Scallops

Heat 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large sauté pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.

Once the pan is hot (almost to the smoking point), carefully add the scallops in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.

Sear for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes per side without moving them. This allows a rich, golden-brown crust to form.

Once seared, transfer the scallops to a plate and tent loosely with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce

Wipe out the skillet and return it to low heat.

Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet and let it melt.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.

Pour in the lemon juice, stirring to combine.

Return the seared scallops to the pan and spoon the buttery sauce over them for 1–2 minutes to reheat and infuse them with flavor.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Serve immediately, ensuring each portion gets a drizzle of the luscious garlic lemon butter sauce.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Seared Scallops

✅ Dry Scallops Are Key: Avoid wet-packed scallops, which contain preservatives that prevent proper searing. Drying the scallops thoroughly is crucial.

✅ Get the Pan Hot: A hot pan creates that perfect crust. The oil should shimmer, but not smoke excessively.

✅ Don’t Overcrowd: Cooking scallops in batches ensures they sear rather than steam.

✅ Minimal Flipping: Only flip once for a clean, golden crust.

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Serving Suggestions

Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops shine as a main course or elegant starter. Pair them with:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes or Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes for a rich, comforting side.

Steamed Asparagus, grilled zucchini, or sautéed spinach for a fresh, vibrant contrast.

Crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up every drop of that heavenly butter sauce.

A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the dish’s bright citrus notes.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops recipe offers gourmet flavor with minimal effort. The scallops develop a rich crust, while the garlic lemon butter sauce adds a burst of brightness that complements their natural sweetness. Best of all, this dish is ready in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights or special occasions alike.

So grab those scallop

s, fire up your skillet, and treat yourself to a restaurant-quality dish that’s sure to impress. Enjoy!