Lemon Butter Scallops: A Light and Flavorful Seafood Delight

Lemon Butter Scallops are a quick and elegant seafood dish that combines the delicate sweetness of scallops with a zesty, buttery sauce. The perfect balance of garlic, lemon, and fresh parsley makes this dish irresistibly flavorful, while the tender scallops provide a melt-in-your-mouth texture. This recipe is ideal for a weeknight dinner, special occasions, or when you want to impress guests with a sophisticated yet simple meal.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With only a few ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in just minutes. The lemon butter sauce perfectly complements the natural flavor of the scallops, making each bite a burst of deliciousness. Whether served over pasta, rice, or with a side of vegetables, Lemon Butter Scallops are guaranteed to be a hit at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This recipe is incredibly simple and fast to make. You can have a gourmet seafood dish ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.

2. Delicious Lemon Butter Sauce

The tangy, rich lemon butter sauce elevates the flavor of the scallops, creating a perfect balance between buttery richness and citrusy freshness.

3. Perfectly Seared Scallops

When cooked properly, scallops have a sweet, tender texture with a beautifully seared golden crust. This recipe ensures your scallops are cooked to perfection every time.

4. Light and Healthy

Lemon Butter Scallops are light and flavorful without being heavy. They’re a great option for a low-carb or gluten-free meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.

5. Impressive Presentation

This dish looks elegant and sophisticated, making it perfect for dinner parties or special occasions. It’s sure to impress guests without requiring complex cooking techniques.

Ingredients

For the Scallops:

• Unsalted butter
• Sea scallops
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

• Unsalted butter
• Garlic (minced)
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Chopped fresh parsley

Variations

• Add White Wine: For a more complex flavor, add a splash of white wine to the lemon butter sauce and let it reduce slightly before adding the lemon juice.
• Spicy Option: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
• Crispy Scallops: Coat the scallops in a light dusting of flour before searing them to get a crispy outer crust.
• Herb Variations: While parsley is commonly used, feel free to experiment with other herbs like basil, thyme, or tarragon for different flavor profiles.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. This ensures that they sear properly without steaming. Season the scallops with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Sear the Scallops

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and foamy, add the scallops to the pan in a single layer. Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until a golden-brown crust forms and the scallops are opaque in the center. Remove the scallops from the pan and set them aside.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Add Lemon and Seasonings

Add 3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice to the skillet. Stir in kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for a minute, allowing the flavors to combine.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the seared scallops to the skillet and gently toss them in the lemon butter sauce to coat. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top and serve immediately. Enjoy the scallops on their own or with a side of pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Scallops: Scallops cook quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Sear them for just 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and opaque in the center.
• Dry the Scallops Well: Be sure to pat the scallops dry before cooking them to ensure a crisp, golden crust.
• Use Fresh Lemon Juice: For the best flavor, always use freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of bottled lemon juice.
• Control the Heat: If the pan is too hot, the butter may burn. Cook the scallops over medium-high heat, adjusting as necessary.

How to Serve

Lemon Butter Scallops can be served in a variety of ways. For a light meal, serve them with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. For a more substantial dish, serve them over pasta, rice, or quinoa. They also pair wonderfully with garlic bread or a buttery risotto.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

While scallops are best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat, being careful not to overcook.

Freezing

It’s not recommended to freeze cooked scallops as they can lose their texture when thawed. However, you can freeze cooked scallops before they are added to the sauce. If freezing, store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, warm them in a skillet over low heat with a little extra butter or a splash of water to prevent them from drying out. Avoid microwaving them for long periods as they may become rubbery.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, you can use frozen scallops, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

2. How do I know when the scallops are done?

Scallops are done when they are opaque in the center and have a golden-brown crust on the outside. They should still be tender and moist inside.

3. Can I make the lemon butter sauce in advance?

You can make the lemon butter sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to add the scallops just before serving to maintain their texture.

4. Can I add other seafood to the recipe?

Yes, you can add shrimp, lobster, or crab to the lemon butter sauce for a mixed seafood dish.

5. What should I serve with Lemon Butter Scallops?

Serve with pasta, rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

6. Can I use frozen garlic instead of fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use frozen garlic if necessary.

7. Can I substitute margarine for butter?

While margarine can be used, it won’t provide the same rich flavor that butter does. For the best results, stick to unsalted butter.

8. Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, you can add red pepper flakes to the sauce to add a spicy kick.

9. How long should I cook the scallops?

Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, depending on their size. Avoid overcooking, as they can become rubbery.

10. Can I make this recipe without parsley?

While parsley adds a fresh, herby flavor, you can omit it if you prefer or substitute it with other herbs like basil or thyme.

Conclusion

Lemon Butter Scallops are a deliciously simple and elegant dish that will elevate any meal. With their tender, sweet texture and flavorful lemon butter sauce, they’re a perfect choice for seafood lovers. Quick to prepare and versatile enough to pair with various sides, this dish is sure to impress at any dinner table. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special occasion, these scallops will be a hit every time.

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