Succulent Garlic Lemon Butter Scallops

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb sea scallops
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions:

  1. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the scallops in a single layer, making sure not to crowd the pan. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until a golden crust forms.
  4. Remove scallops from the skillet and set aside.
  5. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter.
  6. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  7. Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest.
  8. Return the scallops to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes, spooning the sauce over them.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
  10. Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
  11. Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

FAQs:

  • What are Garlic Lemon Butter Scallops? Garlic Lemon Butter Scallops are a gourmet seafood dish featuring scallops cooked to tender perfection in a flavorful sauce made with garlic, butter, lemon juice, and often fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. They are typically served as an appetizer or main dish over pasta or rice.
  • How do you cook Succulent Garlic Lemon Butter Scallops? To cook Succulent Garlic Lemon Butter Scallops, start by patting dry fresh scallops with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat and add minced garlic, cooking until fragrant. Add the scallops in a single layer and sear for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Finish by adding lemon juice and fresh herbs, then serve immediately.
  • What should I look for when buying scallops for this dish? When buying scallops for Garlic Lemon Butter Scallops, look for dry-packed scallops, which are natural and have not been treated with any additives. They should be firm, translucent, and have a sweet oceanic smell. Avoid scallops treated with sodium tripolyphosphate (STP) as they tend to release excess moisture when cooking.
  • Can I substitute ingredients in the Garlic Lemon Butter Scallops recipe? Yes, you can adjust the ingredients in the Garlic Lemon Butter Scallops recipe to suit your taste. For example, you can use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter dish, or add a splash of white wine for extra depth of flavor. Adjust the amount of garlic and lemon juice based on your preference for stronger or milder flavors.
  • What are some recommended side dishes to serve with Garlic Lemon Butter Scallops? Garlic Lemon Butter Scallops pair well with a variety of sides such as steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette. They also complement pasta dishes like linguine or risotto, allowing you to soak up the delicious buttery sauce.

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