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Garlic Butter Scallops with Lemon

Close-up of six golden-brown Garlic Butter Scallops with Lemon, glistening in butter sauce and topped with fresh parsley.
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Cook tender, perfectly seared scallops with a rich garlic butter and bright lemon sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb large sea scallops
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Remove the small side muscle from each scallop if present. Pat the scallops completely dry using paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  3. Place the scallops in the hot skillet, ensuring they do not touch. Sear for 2 to 3 minutes without moving them until a deep golden-brown crust forms.
  4. Flip the scallops and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until they are opaque throughout. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
  5. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  6. Pour in the white wine or broth and let it simmer for 1 minute, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  7. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest.
  8. Return the scallops to the skillet and toss gently to coat them in the sauce. Stir in the chopped parsley.
  9. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Drying the scallops thoroughly is the most important step for achieving a good sear.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
  • Use high heat initially to create the crust quickly.
  • Avoid overcooking; scallops cook fast and become rubbery if left on the heat too long.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://spoonfulsnap.com/garlic-butter-scallops-with-lemon/