Save to Pinterest This dish highlights large sea scallops seared to create a golden crust, finished with a bright lemon-garlic butter sauce. Start by seasoning the scallops, then pan-sear them carefully to maintain their tender texture. Next, prepare a quick sauce by cooking garlic in butter, then adding lemon zest and juice for brightness. Toss scallops back into the sauce and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for a burst of citrus. Ideal for fast, elegant dining with a Mediterranean twist.
Tender sea scallops seared to golden perfection, finished with a bright lemon-garlic butter sauce, remind me of the first time I mastered a quick elegant seafood dish that felt fancy but was truly easy enough for any weeknight.
I remember the time unexpected guests arrived and I whipped up this dish in no time—the golden scallops and buttery sauce earned lots of smiles and second helpings.
Ingredients
- Sea scallops: Always pat them dry for the best sear, and avoid wet or preserved ones to keep that perfect golden crust
- Olive oil and unsalted butter: Gives the sauce richness and the right balance to prevent burning
- Garlic and lemon: Freshness here is key—mince garlic finely to release all its fragrance and zest the lemon for that bright pop
- Fresh parsley: Finely chopped to finish the dish with a fresh herbal note
- Salt and pepper: Simple but essential seasoning to bring out the scallops' natural flavor
- Lemon wedges: A final squeeze just before serving wakes up every bite
Instructions
- Get Everything Ready:
- Pat the scallops completely dry with paper towels to ensure they sear beautifully. Season both sides with salt and pepper so every bite is flavorful.
- Heat the Pan:
- Warm olive oil and one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking—listen for a gentle sizzle to know it’s right.
- Seize the Scallops:
- Place scallops in a single layer with space between them. Resist the urge to move them around to allow a golden crust to form, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Flip and Finish Cooking:
- Turn the scallops over and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until opaque. Remove them to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
- Make the Sauce:
- Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining butter. Stir in finely minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, filling the kitchen with that incredible aroma.
- Brighten Up:
- Stir in lemon zest and juice, swirling gently to combine everything into a silky, bright sauce.
- Bring It All Back:
- Return scallops to the skillet, spoon the luscious sauce over each, and sprinkle with fresh parsley to add color and herby freshness.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Plate immediately with lemon wedges for an extra zing with every bite.
Save to Pinterest This dish became more than just food when my family gathered around the table after a long day, sharing stories and laughter with plates full of buttery scallops, lemon-peppered just right.
Keeping It Fresh
I always buy scallops the day I plan to cook them and store them in the coldest part of the fridge. Using fresh lemons and garlic really lifts the whole dish and keeps it feeling vibrant.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
This pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a creamy risotto to soak up all that zesty garlic butter sauce. Crusty bread is perfect to mop up every last drop.
A Time This Recipe Saved the Day
Once, when running late for a dinner, I pulled out this recipe. The scallops cooked quickly and impressively—everyone thought I had been prepping all day.
- Be sure to have paper towels handy for patting scallops dry
- Don’t overcrowd the pan or they won’t get that perfect crust
- Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and flavor
Save to Pinterest Thanks for stopping by the kitchen—I hope this dish brings you as much joy as it did me. Can’t wait to hear your stories making it your own!
Frequently asked questions about this recipe
- → How do I achieve a perfect sear on scallops?
-
Ensure scallops are thoroughly patted dry before seasoning. Use a hot skillet with olive oil and butter, searing each side without moving them to form a golden crust.
- → Can I substitute lemon for lime in this dish?
-
Lemon provides a bright citrus flavor complementing the scallops' sweetness. Lime can be used, but it will alter the dish's flavor profile slightly.
- → What can I serve alongside scallops with lemon garlic butter?
-
Steamed vegetables, creamy risotto, or crusty bread pair beautifully, balancing the rich buttery sauce and tender seafood.
- → How should scallops be cooked to avoid toughness?
-
Cook scallops over medium-high heat for short periods. Overcooking causes toughness; aim for a golden crust while keeping the center opaque and tender.
- → Is fresh parsley essential for this dish?
-
Parsley adds a fresh herbal note enhancing the sauce’s brightness. Alternatives like chives or dill also work well for varied flavors.
