Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops Flavorful and Simple Dish

Looking for a dish that impresses yet takes little time to make? Try my Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops! This flavorful recipe brings together fresh ingredients to create a delightful meal you can whip up in no time. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, your taste buds will thank you for this simple, yet delicious, treat. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and turn your next dinner into something special!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap sea scallops for bay scallops if needed. Use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option. If you don't have fresh parsley, try fresh cilantro or basil. For a kick, add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter. You can use lemon juice from a bottle, but fresh juice tastes best.

Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference in flavor. Fresh scallops taste sweeter and more delicate. Fresh garlic adds depth, while fresh lemon gives a bright zing. When you use fresh herbs, they bring a pop of color and taste. Always choose the best ingredients you can find. This choice elevates your dish and impresses your guests.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Scallops

First, you need to dry the scallops well. Use paper towels to pat them dry. This step helps them get a nice sear. After drying, sprinkle both sides with salt and fresh pepper. This adds flavor to the scallops.

Cooking Process

Next, heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet. Set the heat to medium-high. Wait until the butter begins to sizzle and foam. This means it is ready for the scallops.

Now, gently place the seasoned scallops in the skillet. Make sure they are in a single layer. Do not crowd the pan. Let them cook for about 2-3 minutes. Watch for a golden crust to form on the bottom.

After that, flip the scallops using tongs or a spatula. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. They should be opaque and firm to the touch. Once cooked, move the scallops to a warm plate. Cover them to keep warm.

Making the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Also, add the minced garlic at this point. Stir the garlic for about 1 minute. You will know it is ready when it smells great. Be careful not to burn it.

Now, pour in the lemon juice and zest. Stir well to mix it with the garlic and butter. Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend nicely.

Next, return the scallops to the skillet. Turn them gently to coat with the sauce. Finally, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the chopped parsley for a fresh flavor.

Serve the scallops warm. Drizzle them generously with the lemon garlic butter sauce. Add lemon wedges on the side for extra zest. Enjoy your delicious dish!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Sear

To get that nice golden crust on your scallops, start with dry scallops. Pat them with paper towels until they are moisture-free. This step is key. Next, heat the butter until it sizzles. This means your pan is hot enough. Place the scallops in a single layer. Avoid crowding them. Allow them to cook undisturbed for a few minutes. This helps form the perfect sear.

How to Avoid Overcooking Scallops

Scallops cook fast. They only need about 2-3 minutes per side. Look for a firm texture and an opaque color. If they feel rubbery, you’ve overcooked them. Keep an eye on them while cooking. Use a timer to help track the cooking time. If in doubt, remove them from the heat a bit early. They will continue cooking from residual heat.

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops

Presentation matters! Arrange the scallops on warm plates. Drizzle the lemon garlic butter sauce over them. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and flavor. Serve with lemon wedges for extra zing. You can pair these scallops with a light salad or rice. This balances the rich butter sauce nicely. Enjoy your meal with a refreshing glass of white wine!

Variations

Adding Different Herbs

You can change the flavor of lemon garlic butter scallops by adding fresh herbs. Try using thyme or dill for a new twist. Just chop the herbs roughly and add them to the sauce. This small change can add depth to the dish. You could also mix in some basil for a sweet touch. Each herb brings its own unique flavor profile. Experiment to see which one you like best!

Modifying the Sauce

The lemon garlic butter sauce is very flexible. If you want a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. This will give your dish some heat. For a creamier sauce, whisk in heavy cream after the garlic cooks. This makes the sauce rich and smooth. You could also swap the lemon for lime for a different citrus flavor. Each variation can make the dish feel new and exciting.

Pairing with Sides

Scallops pair well with many sides. Consider serving them with a fresh green salad. The crispness of the salad balances the richness of the scallops. You can also serve them with garlic bread to soak up the sauce. Another great option is pasta. A light lemon pasta will complement the scallops perfectly. Choose sides based on your mood or the season. Enjoy mixing and matching to find your favorite combination!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your lemon garlic butter scallops, store any extras in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. Make sure the scallops cool down first. They stay fresh for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing.

Reheating Suggestions

When you're ready to eat leftovers, gently reheat them. Use a skillet on low heat for best results. Add a little butter to keep them moist. Heat just until warm. Avoid cooking too long, or they may become tough.

Freezing Scallops

You can freeze scallops, but it's best to do so before cooking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This way, they won't stick together. Frozen scallops are best used within three months for the best flavor.

FAQs

What are the best scallops to use?

For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using sea scallops. They are larger and sweeter than bay scallops. Fresh sea scallops provide a firm bite and a lovely sear. Look for scallops that are wet and shiny. Avoid any that appear dry or smell fishy.

Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, you can use frozen scallops, but make sure to thaw them properly. Place them in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water for a quick thaw. Pat them dry before cooking. Frozen scallops can taste great, but fresh ones shine brighter in this dish.

How to tell when scallops are cooked?

To check if scallops are cooked, look for a firm texture and an opaque center. They should be golden brown on the outside. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. If they are still translucent in the middle, give them another minute. Remember, overcooking will make them rubbery, so keep an eye on them!

This blog post walked through the steps to cook perfect scallops. We covered key ingredients, their fresh importance, and smart swaps. You learned precise cooking methods and the rich lemon garlic butter sauce. I shared tips to get the best sear and avoid overcooking. Exploring variations and storage options help you customize your dish.

Remember, fresh ingredients shine in this recipe. With practice, you will master scallops in no time. Enjoy your delicious creatio

Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops

A delicious and elegant dish featuring perfectly seared scallops in a rich lemon garlic butter sauce.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Seafood

Servings 2

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound sea scallops, patted dry
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 lemon juice and zest (about 2 tablespoons juice)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, roughly chopped
• to taste salt
• to taste freshly ground black pepper
• as needed lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

 

• Begin by making sure the scallops are thoroughly dried using paper towels. This step is crucial to achieving a perfect sear. Once dry, season both sides lightly with salt and fresh pepper.
• In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat until it begins to sizzle and foam. Ensure the butter is hot before proceeding to the next step.
• Carefully place the seasoned scallops in the skillet, ensuring they are in a single layer without overcrowding the pan. Allow them to cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes, or until a beautiful golden crust forms on the bottom.
• Gently flip the scallops using tongs or a spatula and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the opposite side until they are opaque and firm to the touch. Once cooked, transfer the scallops to a warm plate and cover to retain their heat.
• In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until it becomes aromatic—be vigilant to prevent burning.
• Pour in the lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine with the melted butter and garlic. Allow the sauce to simmer for 1-2 minutes, melding the flavors together beautifully.
• Gently return the scallops to the skillet, carefully turning them to coat in the luscious lemon garlic butter sauce.
• Remove the skillet from the heat, and stir in the chopped parsley to add a refreshing note.
• Serve the scallops warm, generously drizzled with the lemon garlic butter sauce, and accompanied by lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Notes

Arrange the scallops artistically on warmed plates, and spoon extra sauce over the top. Finish with a sprinkle of additional parsley for a vibrant touch and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty contrast.

Keyword butter, garlic, lemon, scallops, seafood