Description
This Lemon Butter Scallops recipe features tender sea scallops seared to golden perfection in butter and topped with a fragrant lemon garlic butter sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a simple yet elegant seafood dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Scallops
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 pound sea scallops
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Lemon Butter Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
Instructions
- Heat Butter: Melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, preparing the skillet for searing the scallops.
- Prepare Scallops: Remove the small side muscle from each scallop to ensure tenderness. Rinse scallops under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to avoid steaming during cooking.
- Season Scallops: Sprinkle both sides of the scallops with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
- Sear Scallops: Working in batches, place scallops in the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, until they develop a golden brown crust and remain slightly translucent in the center for optimal texture.
- Keep Warm: Remove scallops from the skillet and set aside to keep warm while you prepare the sauce.
- Make Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat, allowing it to melt without browning.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the butter and cook, stirring frequently, for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, to release its flavor.
- Add Lemon Juice and Season: Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, creating a bright, tangy sauce.
- Combine: Pour the lemon butter sauce over the cooked scallops, coating them evenly for maximum flavor.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the scallops for a fresh herbal note and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the skillet when searing scallops to ensure a perfect golden crust.
- Patting scallops dry is essential to prevent steaming and achieve a proper sear.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright and tangy flavor in the sauce.
- Serve immediately as scallops can toughen if left to sit after cooking.
- This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
