The Zesty Lemon Butter Scallops Recipe Everyone Loves

Succulent lemon butter scallops dance on your plate with elegant simplicity.

Marine treasures nestle in a silky sauce that whispers coastal memories.

Delicate proteins emerge golden and tender from quick searing.

Seafood enthusiasts appreciate how minimal ingredients create maximum flavor profiles.

Salt and citrus weave magic through each perfectly caramelized morsel.

Mediterranean techniques bring restaurant-quality elegance to your home kitchen.

You’ll want to savor every luxurious bite of this restaurant-worthy dish.

Why Lemon Butter Scallops Are Light And Luxurious

• Quick and Elegant: Prepare a restaurant-quality seafood dish in minutes with minimal ingredients and simple cooking techniques.
• Flavor Explosion: Perfectly seared scallops combined with bright, zesty lemon butter sauce create a mouthwatering taste experience that delights the palate.
• Healthy Protein Option: Light, low-calorie scallops packed with protein offer a nutritious meal that feels indulgent without heavy calories.
• Versatile Dinner Choice: Adaptable recipe suitable for romantic dinners, special occasions, or a sophisticated weeknight meal that impresses family and guests.

What You’ll Need For Lemon Butter Scallops

• Scallops: Fresh seafood that offers a delicate, sweet flavor and tender texture when cooked properly.

• Butter: Provides rich, creamy flavor and helps create a golden-brown sear on the scallops.

• Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that bring out the natural taste of the scallops.
• Garlic: Adds a robust, aromatic flavor to the lemon butter sauce.
• Lemon Juice: Brings bright, tangy acidity that complements the rich butter and sweet scallops.

• Parsley: Fresh herb that adds a pop of color and subtle fresh flavor to the dish.

How To Sear Lemon Butter Scallops Just Right

Step 1: Sizzle Butter in Skillet

Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high temperature. Melt butter until it creates a golden, shimmering surface across the pan.

Step 2: Prepare Scallops

Remove the small side muscle from each scallop. Rinse the scallops under cold water and use paper towels to completely dry them.

This ensures a perfect golden sear.

Step 3: Season Seafood

Generously sprinkle salt and pepper over both sides of the scallops.

Ensure an even coating for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Create Golden Sear

Carefully place scallops in the skillet, making sure they do not touch each other.

Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms and the center remains translucent. Transfer cooked scallops to a warm plate.

Step 5: Craft Zesty Sauce

In the same skillet, melt additional butter. Add minced garlic and cook until aromatic.

Pour in fresh lemon juice and stir to combine. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Plate and Garnish

Arrange the seared scallops on a serving plate. Drizzle the vibrant lemon butter sauce over the top.

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and herbal freshness if desired.

Tips To Make Lemon Butter Scallops Shine

• Pat scallops completely dry to achieve a perfect golden-brown sear without steaming them in the skillet.
• Use a cast iron skillet for even heat distribution and creating a beautiful caramelized crust on scallops.
• Cook scallops in small batches to prevent overcrowding and ensure each piece gets crispy and golden.
• Season scallops just before cooking to help them develop a delicious crust and prevent moisture release.
• Serve immediately after cooking to maintain the tender, delicate texture of the scallops and enjoy the rich, bright lemon butter sauce.

Delicious Spins On Lemon Butter Scallops

• Herb-Crusted Scallops: Coat scallops with a mixture of chopped fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley before searing for an aromatic flavor boost.
• Spicy Cajun Scallops: Sprinkle Cajun seasoning on scallops before cooking to add a bold, zesty kick to the classic recipe.
• White Wine Scallops: Replace lemon juice with dry white wine in the sauce for a richer, more complex flavor profile.
• Garlic Parmesan Scallops: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the scallops during the last minute of cooking for a creamy, savory finish.

What Goes Great With Lemon Butter Scallops

• Pair Perfect Crisp White Wine: Select a zesty Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the delicate scallops and bright lemon butter sauce, cutting through the richness while enhancing the seafood's subtle flavors.
• Serve with Fresh Herb Risotto: Create a creamy parmesan risotto with fresh herbs like chives and parsley, which will absorb the lemon butter sauce and provide a smooth, luxurious side dish that elevates the scallops.
• Match with Light Arugula Salad: Toss a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette and shaved parmesan, offering a peppery, crisp contrast to the buttery scallops and adding a refreshing element to the plate.

How To Store Lemon Butter Scallops Properly

• Refrigerate: Store leftover scallops in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat Gently: Warm scallops in a skillet over low heat with a splash of butter, cooking for 1-2 minutes to prevent overcooking and maintain tenderness.
• Microwave Carefully: Heat scallops in 15-second intervals at 50% power, checking between each interval to avoid rubbery texture.
• Discard Wisely: Toss leftover scallops if they develop an off smell, slimy texture, or have been stored for more than 2 days to prevent foodborne illness.

FAQs On Lemon Butter Scallops

• How do I know when scallops are perfectly cooked?

Look for a golden-brown sear on the outside and a translucent, slightly opaque center. Overcooking makes them tough and rubbery, so aim for 1-2 minutes per side.

• Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, but thaw them completely in the refrigerator first and pat them extremely dry to ensure a good sear. Excess moisture prevents proper browning.

• What type of skillet works best for searing scallops?

A cast iron skillet is ideal because it provides even, high heat and creates a perfect golden crust. If you don’t have cast iron, use a heavy-bottomed stainless steel or nonstick pan.

Lemon Butter Scallops Recipe

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4.9 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy lemon butter scallops shine as a luxurious seafood delight that blends Mediterranean elegance with simple coastal charm. Delicate scallops nestled in a silky sauce will transport you to seaside dining, offering a perfect balance of zesty and rich flavors.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Primary Ingredients:

• 1 pound scallops
• 3 cloves garlic
• 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves

Butter and Fat:

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Seasoning:

• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Heat a large cast iron skillet to medium-high and melt butter until it sizzles and becomes golden.
2. Prepare scallops by removing the side muscle, rinsing under cold water, and meticulously drying with paper towels to ensure a perfect sear.
3. Generously season scallops with salt and freshly ground black pepper across all surfaces.
4. Carefully place scallops in the skillet, ensuring they do not touch each other, and cook for approximately 90 seconds until a rich golden crust forms.
5. Gently flip scallops and cook the opposite side for an additional 90 seconds, maintaining a translucent center that appears pearly white.
6. Transfer seared scallops to a warm plate, preserving their delicate texture and temperature.
7. In the same skillet, reduce heat and add fresh butter, allowing it to melt smoothly and create a base for the sauce.
8. Introduce minced garlic to the melted butter, stirring continuously for 45-60 seconds until fragrant and lightly golden.
9. Pour fresh lemon juice into the skillet, creating a vibrant sauce that combines with the butter’s richness.
10. Season the sauce with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting to achieve a balanced flavor profile.
11. Drizzle the warm lemon butter sauce directly over the seared scallops and garnish with finely chopped parsley for a fresh, elegant presentation.

Notes

• Pat scallops completely dry to achieve a golden-brown sear without steaming them in the pan.
• Use a cast iron skillet for the best caramelization and even heat distribution.
• Cook scallops in batches to prevent overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of searing.
• Opt for fresh, high-quality sea scallops for the most tender and sweet flavor.
• Adjust cooking time based on scallop size – larger scallops may need slightly longer cooking.
• For a gluten-free version, ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Dairy-free alternative: Replace butter with olive oil or coconut oil for a similar richness.
• Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle heat kick if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg