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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- Heat a large cast iron skillet to medium-high and melt butter until it sizzles and becomes golden.
- Prepare scallops by removing the side muscle, rinsing under cold water, and meticulously drying with paper towels to ensure a perfect sear.
- Generously season scallops with salt and freshly ground black pepper across all surfaces.
- 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.
- Gently flip scallops and cook the opposite side for an additional 90 seconds, maintaining a translucent center that appears pearly white.
- Transfer seared scallops to a warm plate, preserving their delicate texture and temperature.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat and add fresh butter, allowing it to melt smoothly and create a base for the sauce.
- Introduce minced garlic to the melted butter, stirring continuously for 45-60 seconds until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Pour fresh lemon juice into the skillet, creating a vibrant sauce that combines with the butter’s richness.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting to achieve a balanced flavor profile.
- 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