Have you ever wanted to recreate that perfect seared scallop dish you had at a fancy restaurant? You know, the one with the golden-brown crust, tender center, and that buttery, lemony sauce that made you swoon? Well, I’ve got good news for you—you can make Seared Scallops with Lemon Garlic Butter right at home! This dish might sound intimidating, but with a few tips and a little practice, you’ll be serving up perfectly seared scallops in no time. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this dish is a surefire way to impress.
Seared Scallops with Lemon Garlic Butter
Ingredients:
- 12 large sea scallops: Fresh and dry-packed for the best sear.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For searing the scallops to a golden crust.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the butter sauce with aromatic depth.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Brings brightness and acidity.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and freshness.
How to Make Seared Scallops with Lemon Garlic Butter
1. Prepare the Scallops:
Start by patting your scallops dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown sear. Moisture is the enemy of a good sear, so make sure the scallops are as dry as possible. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Scallops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s just starting to smoke. Carefully place the scallops in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the scallops for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until a deep golden crust forms. Avoid moving the scallops around too much—just let them sit and develop that beautiful sear. Once they’re done, remove the scallops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Then, add the lemon juice and stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This sauce is all about balance—the rich butter, the tangy lemon, and the aromatic garlic come together to create something truly special.
4. Finish the Scallops:
Return the seared scallops to the skillet, spooning the lemon garlic butter sauce over them. Let them cook for another minute to soak up all those delicious flavors.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the scallops to a serving plate, drizzle with the remaining lemon garlic butter, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately and watch your guests’ faces light up as they take their first bite. This dish is simple yet incredibly impressive, perfect for any occasion.
Conclusion
Seared Scallops with Lemon Garlic Butter is one of those dishes that never fails to impress. It’s elegant, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make at home. The key is all in the technique—getting that perfect sear on the scallops and balancing the rich, buttery sauce with the bright acidity of lemon. Whether you’re cooking for a special dinner or just want to treat yourself to a gourmet meal, this recipe is a guaranteed winner. Give it a try, and you’ll see why seared scallops are such a beloved dish in the culinary world!