Forget takeout – here’s the secret to a restaurant-quality dish you can whip up at home!
If you love scallops but cringe at the thought of preparing them, you’re in for a treat! This Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops recipe is not only ridiculously easy to make but also makes your kitchen smell heavenly. Imagine tender scallops kissed by lemony butter, mingling with aromatic garlic. Sounds dreamy, right? You’ll want to make this dish your new go-to for romantic dinners, last-minute gatherings, or an indulgent weeknight treat.
Why make this recipe
Why should you dive into this tantalizing seafood dish? Here are a couple of reasons:
- Quick Cleanup: It all happens in one pan. Yes, you can skip the mountain of dishes and reclaim your evening. 🙌
- Affordability: Scallops might feel fancy, but they’re often more affordable than you think, making this recipe a steal for gourmet vibes!
- Deliciousness: Let’s be real, who doesn’t love scallops? They practically cook themselves when you have butter and garlic doing the heavy lifting!
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics! Grab:
- 1 pound scallops
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Directions
Follow these easy steps to scallop perfection:
- Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter until bubbling.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Place the scallops in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them.
- Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Squeeze the lemon juice over the scallops and toss gently to coat.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
How to make Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops (Overview)
Getting those gorgeous scallops ready is a cinch! First, prep your scallops by drying them and giving them a good sprinkle of seasoning. While your skillet heats up, melt that butter – the aroma alone is worth it! Once nice and hot, sauté the garlic, and then introduce the scallops into the pan like invited guests at a party. Just make sure not to overcrowd them; they need some space to shine! Don’t forget that finishing squirt of lemon juice—it’s a game changer. 🍋
Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic; that nutty, golden flavor is what elevates this dish!
How to serve Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops
Serve your beautiful scallops over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside some zucchini noodles for a vibrant, health-conscious meal. Picture this: perfectly seared scallops glistening with butter, garnished with fresh parsley, and a spritz of lemon that adds a pop of color and flavor. The crunch of a fresh green salad on the side adds texture, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. You’ll want to dive in as soon as they hit the table!
How to store Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops
Got leftovers? Enjoy your scallops for up to two days in the fridge! Just make sure to store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you can manage to save some for later (it’s tough!), you can also freeze them for up to three months. When reheating, gently warm them on the stove with a splash of butter to keep them juicy.
Tips to make Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops
- Timing is Everything: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the scallops for that perfect sear.
- Quality Over Quantity: Fresh scallops deliver better flavor; frozen works too, just ensure they’re completely thawed!
- If you’re feeling adventurous,** swap the butter for olive oil** for a lighter variation. ✨
- Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
- Keep garlic handy – it’s your best friend in this recipe!
Variation
Want to change it up? Try adding coconut milk and curry powder for a tropical twist, or swap scallops for shrimp if that’s more your style. No seafood? You can sauté chicken in the same garlicky butter – it’ll work a treat!
FAQs
Can I make these scallops in advance?
Technically, you can prep everything ahead, but the scallops will lose their magic if they sit too long. Best to enjoy them fresh!
What if I can’t find fresh scallops?
Frozen scallops are a great alternative. Just remember to thaw them completely before cooking.
How do I know when the scallops are done?
They should be golden brown on the outside and opaque throughout. Overcooking them turns them rubbery, so keep a close eye!
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops
Ingredients
Method
- Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter until bubbling.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Place the scallops in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them.
- Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Squeeze the lemon juice over the scallops and toss gently to coat.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.