Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, perfectly seared scallops, bathed in a luscious lemon garlic butter sauce that dances on your palate. That’s the magic of Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops – a dish that’s both elegant and incredibly easy to make. Be sure to check our delicious recipe for [Buttery Garlic Shrimp](Your internal website page for Buttery Garlic Shrimp). Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer for a dinner party, this Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops recipe is guaranteed to impress. Follow these steps, and you’ll be amazed.
Unveiling the Ingredients:
To achieve the perfect Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops, you’ll need fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s the complete list with precise measurements: Explore more info about butter’s nutrition [Butter’s Nutrition Facts]
Sea Scallops: 1 pound, preferably dry-packed. Dry-packed scallops sear better and have a cleaner flavor. If you want to make the most of your Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops, then remember to use dry-packed.
Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons. The base of our flavorful sauce.
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. Freshly minced garlic is essential for the best flavor. It’s very important in creating your Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops.
Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed. Adds brightness and acidity to balance the richness of the butter. Lemon juice is a vital part to create delicious and juicy Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops.
Lemon Zest: 1 teaspoon. Enhances the lemon flavor and aroma.
Dry White Wine (optional): 1/4 cup. Adds depth and complexity to the sauce. (Such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped. For garnish and a touch of freshness.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional): 1/4 teaspoon. Adds a subtle kick of heat.
Salt: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste. Enhances the flavors and helps create delicious flavors of Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops.
Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste. Adds a touch of warmth and depth to the flavor.
Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon. For searing the scallops.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s transform these ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. Follow these clear and detailed instructions for the perfect Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops:
Prepare the Scallops: Pat the scallops completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a good sear. Remove the small side muscle (the “foot”) if present, as it can be tough. Season the scallops generously with salt and pepper to enhance. Ensure that the scallops are patted dry for the best Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops.
Heat the Pan: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering hot. The pan needs to be hot to get a good sear and to allow for the flavors to really come out in your delicious Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops. A cast-iron skillet works best, but any heavy-bottomed skillet will do.
Sear the Scallops: Carefully place the scallops in the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and slightly caramelized. Avoid moving the scallops around during the searing process to allow them to develop a nice crust. They should release easily from the pan when seared properly, essential for any perfectly cooked Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops.
Make the Sauce: Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside. Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Be careful not to burn, to save the Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops!
Deglaze the Pan (optional): If using, pour in the dry white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the wine reduce slightly for about 1 minute.
Add the Lemon: Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest. Simmer for another minute to allow the flavors to meld. The lemon will amplify and balance the dish with the Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops.
Return the Scallops: Return the seared scallops to the skillet and toss them gently in the sauce to coat. Cook for another minute, or until heated through.
Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Tips for Culinary Perfection:
Here are some insider tips and tricks to ensure your Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops are a culinary triumph every time:
Dry Scallops are Key: Wet scallops will steam instead of sear, resulting in a rubbery texture. Dry them thoroughly! To create delicious Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops, remember to keep them dry.
High Heat is Essential: The pan needs to be hot to create a beautiful sear. Be patient and let the pan heat up properly. A hot pan is what sets apart a great dish and a good dish.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the pan lowers the temperature and results in steamed scallops. Cook in batches if necessary.
Resist the Urge to Move: Let the scallops sear undisturbed to develop a golden-brown crust. They should release easily from the pan when ready to flip. Do not disturb the Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops.
Don’t Overcook: Scallops cook quickly and become rubbery when overcooked. Aim for a slightly opaque center.
Fresh Garlic is a Must: Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor. Avoid using jarred garlic.
Use Good Quality Butter: The butter is a key ingredient in the sauce, so use a high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor and the best Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops.
Adjust the Lemon to Taste: Add more or less lemon juice to suit your preference.
Conservation and Storage:
Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops are best enjoyed immediately. However, if you have leftovers, here’s how to store them: If you want more information about how to safety store seafood, visit this reliable page: [Safe Seafood Storage Tips]
Cool Completely: Allow the scallops to cool completely before storing.
Airtight Container: Place the scallops in an airtight container.
Refrigerate Promptly: Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Reheating is not recommended, as the scallops can become rubbery. They are best enjoyed cold in a salad or as a topping for crackers. Freezing is also not recommended as this drastically changes the flavour and taste of Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops.
Variations:
The Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Here are a few delicious variations to try:
Spicy Scallops: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for extra heat. The best part about these is its variations!
Herby Scallops: Add other fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the sauce to the dish of the Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops!
White Wine Scallops: Use a generous splash of dry white wine for a richer, more complex flavor when making the Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops.
Creamy Scallops: Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for extra richness and creaminess to your Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops dish.
Bacon Wrapped Scallops: Wrap each scallop in a slice of bacon before searing for a smoky, savory twist. If you want to enhance the flavor, there are lots of options with Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops.
Scallops with Asparagus: Sauté asparagus spears in the skillet along with the garlic for a delicious and complementary side dish.
Add sundried tomatoes: Sundried tomatoes have deep umami flavour, that will add to the dish of Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops.
Serving Suggestions
Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions:
Appetizer: Serve the scallops as an elegant appetizer with crusty bread for soaking up the sauce, and it makes the perfect Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops.
Pasta Dish: Toss the scallops with linguine or fettuccine and the lemon garlic butter sauce for a delicious and easy pasta dish. Enjoy our Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops by adding to a pasta.
Risotto Topping: Top a creamy risotto with the seared scallops for a decadent and satisfying meal, which is why Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops are the best.
Salad Addition: Add the cold scallops to a mixed green salad for a protein-packed and flavorful salad, adding Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops is the key!
Grain Bowl: Serve the scallops over a bed of quinoa or couscous with roasted vegetables for a healthy and complete meal when you include Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops.
Tacos or Wraps: Add the scallops to warm tortillas or wraps with your favorite toppings for a unique and flavorful twist, make sure you have the Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops.
Alongside Steak: The perfect addition to “surf and turf” includes the Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What are dry-packed scallops?
A: Dry-packed scallops are not treated with phosphates, which means they sear better and have a more natural flavor. A good sear is part of the Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops recipe.
Q: Can I use bay scallops instead of sea scallops?
A: Yes, you can use bay scallops, but reduce the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I grill the scallops instead of searing them?
A: Yes, you can grill the scallops. Marinate them in the lemon garlic butter sauce for 30 minutes before grilling the Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops.
Q: Can I use jarred garlic instead of fresh garlic?
A: Fresh garlic is highly recommended for the best flavor.
Q: What if I don’t have white wine?
A: You can omit the white wine or substitute it with chicken broth to create the best version of Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: The scallops are best enjoyed immediately. The sauce can be made ahead of time and reheated. If prepared in advance, they may not turn out as Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops.
Conclusion:
Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops are more than just a recipe; they’re an invitation to experience a symphony of flavors and textures. Its quick and easy preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights, while its elegant presentation makes it suitable for special occasions. A quick meal to create, yet perfect for the family. And the best part is the versatile Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops will create new taste buds. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, a main course, or a topping for your favorite dishes, these scallops are guaranteed to impress. So, gather your ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and prepare to create a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more! Enjoy the journey!
PrintLemon Garlic Butter Scallops
Tender, perfectly seared scallops bathed in a luscious lemon garlic butter sauce. A quick and elegant dish that’s easy to make.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients
- 1 pound sea scallops (dry-packed)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Pat scallops completely dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering hot.
- Place scallops in the skillet without overcrowding and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove scallops and set aside.
- Add butter to the skillet and let it melt, then stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using); cook for 30 seconds.
- Deglaze the pan with white wine (if using) and let it reduce slightly.
- Stir in lemon juice and zest, simmer for a minute.
- Return scallops to the skillet and coat them in the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Ensure scallops are dry before searing for the best crust. Do not overcrowd the pan, and avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: scallops, lemon, garlic, butter, seafood, easy recipe