Welcome to my kitchen, where I’m excited to share my favorite Seared Scallops Recipe with you! If you’re like me, juggling a busy life while trying to whip up something special for dinner can feel overwhelming. But fear not! This elegant seafood delight is not only quick to prepare but also a surefire way to impress your loved ones. Picture this: perfectly golden scallops, kissed by a luscious lemon herb butter sauce, all ready in just 20 minutes. It’s the perfect solution for a weeknight dinner or a romantic date night at home!
Why You’ll Love This Seared Scallops Recipe
This Seared Scallops Recipe is a game-changer for busy moms and professionals alike. It’s incredibly easy to make, taking just 20 minutes from start to finish. The taste? Oh, it’s like a gourmet dinner idea right at home! With the rich flavors of garlic butter and fresh lemon, you’ll feel like a culinary superstar. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it a perfect choice for everyone at the table!
Ingredients for Seared Scallops Recipe
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Seared Scallops Recipe shine. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Large sea scallops: These are the stars of the dish! Look for fresh, plump scallops for the best flavor.
- Olive oil: A splash of this liquid gold helps achieve that perfect sear. It adds a lovely richness to the dish.
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural sweetness of the scallops. Adjust to your taste!
- Unsalted butter: This is where the magic happens! It creates a luscious sauce that coats the scallops beautifully.
- Garlic: Minced garlic adds a fragrant punch to the sauce, elevating the overall flavor profile.
- Lemon juice and zest: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish, while the zest adds an aromatic touch. It’s like sunshine on a plate!
- Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh herbaceous note to the dish.
- Fresh dill and lemon slices (optional): These are lovely garnishes that can enhance presentation and flavor. They’re not mandatory but definitely worth considering!
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Seared Scallops Recipe
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps for making this delightful Seared Scallops Recipe. Trust me, it’s easier than you think!
Step 1: Prepare the Scallops
First things first, let’s get those scallops ready. Pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial! A dry surface ensures a beautiful sear, giving you that golden crust we all crave.
Next, season the scallops generously with salt and black pepper. This simple seasoning enhances their natural sweetness. Remember, a little goes a long way!
Step 2: Sear the Scallops
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. You want the oil to shimmer, which means it’s hot enough for searing. Carefully place the scallops in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Give them space to breathe!
Sear the scallops for about 2 minutes on each side. You’re looking for that perfect golden brown color. If they stick to the pan, they’re not ready yet. Patience is key here!
Step 3: Make the Lemon Herb Butter Sauce
Once the scallops are beautifully seared, it’s time to make the sauce in the same pan. Lower the heat to medium-low and add the unsalted butter and minced garlic. Stir it around until the garlic becomes fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Now, squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and add the lemon zest. This is where the magic happens! The bright flavors will elevate your scallops to a whole new level. Let it simmer for a moment, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Return the seared scallops to the pan, spooning the luscious sauce over them. Let them simmer for about 30 seconds to soak up all that flavor.
To serve, plate the scallops and drizzle the sauce on top. Garnish with chopped parsley, fresh dill, and lemon slices for that extra touch of elegance. Pair it with crusty bread or creamy risotto for a complete meal!
Tips for Success
- Always pat the scallops dry before cooking for a perfect sear.
- Use a hot skillet to achieve that golden crust; don’t rush the process!
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
- For a richer sauce, add an extra tablespoon of butter.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor experience.
Equipment Needed
- Skillet: A non-stick or cast-iron skillet works best for searing.
- Spatula: A thin spatula helps flip the scallops without breaking them.
- Measuring spoons: For precise ingredient measurements, especially for the butter and oil.
- Paper towels: Essential for patting the scallops dry before cooking.
Variations
- Spicy Scallops: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a kick of heat.
- Herb-Infused: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil for a unique flavor twist.
- Asian-Inspired: Swap lemon juice for lime and add a splash of soy sauce for an Asian flair.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace scallops with large mushrooms, like portobello, for a hearty alternative.
- Low-Carb Version: Serve the scallops over zucchini noodles instead of risotto for a lighter meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Creamy Risotto: Serve the scallops over a bed of creamy risotto for a luxurious touch.
- Crusty Bread: Pair with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious lemon herb butter sauce.
- White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc complements the seafood beautifully.
- Fresh Salad: A light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen scallops for this Seared Scallops Recipe?
A: Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. This will help achieve that perfect sear.
Q: What can I serve with my Pan Seared Scallops?
A: These scallops pair wonderfully with creamy risotto, crusty bread, or a fresh salad. A chilled glass of white wine also complements the dish beautifully!
Q: How do I know when the scallops are done cooking?
A: Perfectly cooked scallops should be golden brown on the outside and opaque in the center. They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them!
Q: Can I make the Lemon Herb Butter Sauce ahead of time?
A: While it’s best fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance. Just reheat gently before serving to maintain its delicious flavor.
Q: What’s a quick way to elevate this Quick Scallop Recipe for a special occasion?
A: Consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce or garnishing with caviar for an elegant touch. It’s a simple way to impress your guests!
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Seared Scallops Recipe is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy. The aroma of garlic and lemon fills your kitchen, wrapping you in warmth and comfort. Each bite of those perfectly seared scallops, drizzled with that luscious lemon herb butter sauce, transports you to a seaside bistro. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this dish brings a touch of elegance to your table. So, gather your loved ones, share a laugh, and enjoy the delightful flavors together. Happy cooking!
Print
Seared Scallops Recipe: Elevate Your Dinner Tonight!
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
An elegant seafood delight that’s perfect for dinner dates!
Ingredients
- 12 large sea scallops, patted dry
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1/2 lemon
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Fresh dill and lemon slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season scallops with salt and pepper, then sear for 2 minutes per side until golden brown.
- In the same pan, reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter and garlic, cooking until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice and zest.
- Return the scallops to the pan, spoon the sauce over them, and let simmer for 30 seconds.
- Spoon sauce onto a plate, lay scallops on top, and garnish with chopped parsley, fresh dill, and lemon slices.
- Serve warm with crusty bread or over creamy risotto.
Notes
- Ensure scallops are patted dry for a better sear.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste.
- For a richer flavor, add more butter to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Pan-searing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Seared Scallops Recipe, Lemon Herb Butter Sauce, Elegant Seafood Dinner, Pan Seared Scallops, Quick Scallop Recipe, Garlic Butter Scallops, Gourmet Dinner Idea