Description
This Lemon Butter Scallops recipe delivers tender, seared scallops cooked in a luscious buttery sauce flavored with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and parsley. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a perfect elegant yet quick seafood dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 1 lb fresh scallops
Butter Sauce
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Scallops: Rinse the fresh scallops thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry gently using paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a good sear.
- Melt Butter: Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until it starts bubbling, signaling it’s hot enough for sautéing.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently until fragrant but not browned.
- Sear Scallops: Place the scallops evenly spaced in the skillet and cook without moving them for 2-3 minutes per side, allowing a golden-brown crust to form on each side.
- Add Lemon and Seasoning: Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the scallops and season with salt and pepper. Stir gently to combine the flavors without breaking the scallops.
- Finish with Butter and Parsley: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter along with the chopped fresh parsley until the butter melts into a glossy sauce coating the scallops.
- Serve: Serve the scallops immediately while hot, optionally accompanied by lemon wedges for extra zest.
Notes
- Ensure scallops are dry before searing to achieve a perfect crust.
- Do not overcrowd the pan while searing; cook in batches if needed to maintain searing temperature.
- Use unsalted butter to control salt levels, seasoning with salt separately.
- Serve immediately as scallops can become rubbery if overcooked or held too long.
- Pair well with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
