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Delicious garlic butter scallops prepared in a pan for a gourmet meal

Garlic Butter Scallops

Juicy, tender scallops kissed with rich garlic butter create a restaurant-quality dish in no time. Perfect for seafood lovers!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Seafood
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.5-2 lbs large sea scallops (U-10 or U-12) Fresh scallops for best results
  • 2 tbsp olive oil For cooking
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter (cold) Produces a creamy sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced) Adds rich flavor
  • 1/2 whole lemon (juiced) For acidity
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped) For garnish and freshness
  • Salt and black pepper to taste For seasoning

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Remove the side muscle from the scallops and pat them completely dry. Let them sit on paper towels for 10-15 minutes.
  2. Just before cooking, season the scallops with salt and black pepper.
Cooking
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high to high heat for 3-4 minutes. Add the olive oil and allow it to shimmer.
  2. Carefully add the scallops without moving them at all! Sear for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until just done.
  3. Remove the scallops and reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the cold butter and swirl to melt. Pour in the lemon juice and parsley, swirling to combine beautifully.
  5. Return the scallops to the pan and spoon the delicious sauce over them. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container. Do not freeze to preserve texture. Reheat gently in the skillet.