If you’re looking to indulge in a dish that’s both elegant and simple to prepare, Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter is the perfect choice. This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of scallops, enhanced by the vibrant, tangy flavors of a lemon butter sauce. It’s a dish that not only looks impressive on the plate but also delivers a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner for two or hosting a sophisticated dinner party, this recipe will surely leave a lasting impression on your guests. Let’s explore everything you need to know to create this delightful dish at home.

The Appeal of Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter

Scallops are often seen as a luxurious seafood option, prized for their delicate texture and slightly sweet flavor. When perfectly seared, scallops develop a golden crust that contrasts beautifully with their tender interior. Pairing them with a lemon butter sauce elevates the dish, adding brightness and a touch of richness that complements the scallops without overpowering them. The result is a balanced and sophisticated dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.

One of the best aspects of this dish is its versatility. It’s quick enough to whip up for a weeknight dinner, yet refined enough to serve on special occasions. With just a few high-quality ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you can create a meal that feels restaurant-worthy without the hassle of complicated techniques.

The Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 lb large sea scallops, patted dry: The star of the dish, sea scallops are larger and meatier than their bay scallop counterparts. Ensuring they are thoroughly dried is key to achieving a good sear.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasoning allows the natural flavors of the scallops to shine.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for searing the scallops, olive oil provides a light, fruity flavor that enhances the dish.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Butter adds richness to the sauce, balancing the acidity of the lemon.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the butter sauce with a savory depth of flavor.
Zest of 1 lemon: Lemon zest provides a burst of citrusy aroma, amplifying the lemon flavor without adding extra acidity.
Juice of 1 lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens the sauce, creating a vibrant contrast to the richness of the butter.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of color.
Lemon wedges, for serving: Extra lemon wedges allow diners to add more brightness to their plate if desired.

These ingredients are likely staples in your kitchen, making this recipe both accessible and convenient to prepare.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter is straightforward, with each step designed to maximize flavor while maintaining simplicity. Here’s how to do it:

1 Seasoning the Scallops: Start by generously seasoning both sides of the scallops with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops, creating a well-rounded flavor profile. Make sure the scallops are patted dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, as this will ensure they sear properly.

2 Searing the Scallops: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking. Carefully place the scallops in the skillet in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch each other. This allows each scallop to sear properly and develop a golden crust. Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes on one side until they develop a deep, golden-brown crust. Then, flip them carefully using tongs or a spatula, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the other side until the scallops are opaque and cooked through.

3 Creating the Lemon Butter Sauce: After removing the scallops from the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the butter to the pan. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can quickly turn bitter. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits, known as fond, are packed with flavor and will enrich the sauce.

4 Finishing Touches: Return the scallops to the skillet and gently toss them in the lemon butter sauce for 1-2 minutes until they are warmed through and fully coated in the sauce. This step allows the scallops to absorb some of the lemony richness, making each bite even more flavorful.

5 Garnishing and Serving: Sprinkle the scallops with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness and a touch of color. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side, allowing your guests to squeeze extra lemon juice over their scallops if they desire. The fresh parsley and lemon wedges not only add visual appeal but also contribute to the overall flavor balance of the dish.

Tips for Perfect Scallops Every Time

Achieving perfectly seared scallops can be a bit tricky, but with these tips, you’ll be on your way to scallop perfection every time:

Pat Dry the Scallops: Ensuring that the scallops are completely dry before searing is crucial. Any excess moisture on the surface of the scallops will create steam in the pan, preventing them from forming that beautiful golden crust. Use paper towels to thoroughly pat them dry before seasoning and searing.
Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: When searing scallops, it’s important to give them enough space in the pan. Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature of the oil, leading to steaming instead of searing. If necessary, sear the scallops in batches to ensure each one gets the proper amount of heat and space to develop a crust.
Watch the Cooking Time: Scallops cook quickly, and it’s easy to overcook them if you’re not careful. Overcooked scallops can become tough and rubbery, so it’s important to keep a close eye on them as they cook. The scallops are done when they are opaque and just firm to the touch.
Use Fresh Ingredients: The freshness of your ingredients will make a big difference in the flavor of this dish. Fresh scallops, high-quality olive oil, and freshly squeezed lemon juice will all contribute to a more vibrant and delicious final product.

Nutritional Information

For those keeping an eye on their caloric intake, Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter is a relatively light dish, with each serving containing approximately 200 kcal. Scallops are also a great source of lean protein, providing essential nutrients like vitamin B12, magnesium, and potassium. The dish is low in carbohydrates and can easily fit into a variety of dietary plans, including keto and gluten-free diets.

Perfect Pairings for Pan-Seared Scallops

Pairing your Pan-Seared Scallops with complementary sides and beverages can enhance the dining experience. Here are a few suggestions:

Wine Pairing: A light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or a dry Riesling pairs beautifully with the delicate flavors of the scallops and the brightness of the lemon butter sauce. These wines have enough acidity to balance the richness of the butter, creating a harmonious match.
Side Dishes: Serve the scallops alongside simple, seasonal vegetables like roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or a fresh green salad. These sides add color and texture to the plate without overwhelming the subtle flavors of the scallops.
Carbohydrate Pairing: If you’re looking to add a starch to the meal, consider pairing the scallops with a light risotto, orzo pasta, or garlic mashed potatoes. These options provide a comforting base that complements the richness of the lemon butter sauce.

Elevating the Dish with Variations

While the classic combination of scallops and lemon butter is hard to beat, there are several ways you can customize this dish to suit your taste or make it your own:

Herbed Lemon Butter: Add a variety of fresh herbs like thyme, tarragon, or dill to the lemon butter sauce for an extra layer of flavor. The herbs will infuse the butter with aromatic notes that pair wonderfully with the scallops.
Citrus Twist: For a different take on the sauce, experiment with other citrus fruits. Swap out the lemon for lime or orange for a unique twist on the traditional recipe. The lime will add a sharper, tangier flavor, while orange will bring a sweeter, more mellow citrus note.
Garlic Lover’s Version: If you’re a garlic enthusiast, increase the amount of garlic in the sauce or finish the dish with a sprinkle of crispy garlic chips. The extra garlic will add a bold, savory kick to the scallops.
Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce: For a richer, creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the lemon butter sauce. This variation creates a velvety texture that coats the scallops beautifully and adds a luxurious touch to the dish.

Final Thoughts

Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter is a dish that brings together the best of both worlds: simplicity and sophistication. The tender, golden-brown scallops paired with a zesty lemon butter sauce offer a perfect balance of rich and vibrant flavors. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking process, this recipe is an excellent choice for any occasion. Whether you’re treating yourself

Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter

Author: Teresa
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A simple yet elegant dish featuring perfectly seared scallops, enhanced with a tangy and rich lemon butter sauce.

Ingredients

– 1 lb large sea scallops, patted dry
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Season scallops with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. Remove scallops and reduce heat.
5. Melt butter in the skillet, add garlic, cook until fragrant.
6. Stir in lemon zest and juice, scraping up browned bits.
7. Return scallops to the pan, toss in the sauce for 1-2 minutes.
8. Garnish with parsley, serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

Ensure scallops are dry for a good sear. Avoid overcrowding the pan for even cooking. Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Searing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: 200 kcal per serving
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter