Description
This recipe features perfectly seared lemon garlic butter scallops, cooked to golden crispness and served with a flavorful buttery garlic and white wine sauce finished with fresh lemon juice and parsley. Ready in just 10 minutes, this dish combines tender scallops with zesty, aromatic flavors for an elegant yet easy seafood meal.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 1/4 pounds scallops
Cooking Fats & Oils
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
Flavorings & Seasonings
- 4-5 cloves garlic (large, minced, or 1 1/2 tablespoons minced garlic)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup parsley (chopped)
Liquids
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (or broth)
Instructions
- Prepare the scallops: If using frozen scallops, thaw them in cold water. Remove the side muscle if attached, and thoroughly pat the scallops dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
- Heat the pan: Warm olive oil in a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat until it is hot and sizzling, ready for searing.
- Sear the scallops: Add the scallops to the pan in a single layer without overcrowding. Season with salt and pepper. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes on one side until golden and crisp, then flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes until cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Make the garlic butter sauce: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the same pan, scraping up any browned bits from the scallops. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, but not burnt.
- Add wine and reduce: Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer. Let it reduce by about half over 2 minutes to concentrate the flavors. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and fresh lemon juice.
- Finish and serve: Remove the pan from heat and return the scallops to warm through slightly in the sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving for a fresh, colorful touch.
Notes
- Ensure scallops are dry before searing for the best crust.
- Do not overcrowd the pan or scallops will steam instead of sear.
- Use dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay; substitute broth if preferred.
- Adjust garlic amount based on your taste preference.
- Serve this dish immediately for best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American