Imagine a gourmet meal, bursting with exquisite flavors, ready to grace your plate in mere minutes. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, prepare for that dream to become a delicious reality with these incredible Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops! This sensational dish promises a luxurious dining experience, incredibly easy to achieve, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a spontaneous, impressive date night.
These plump, succulent sea scallops are bathed in a rich, velvety garlic butter sauce, infused with bright, zesty lemon. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and speed – from prep to plate, you’re looking at an astonishing 15 minutes! It feels wonderfully decadent, yet it’s incredibly accessible and comes together with just a few pantry staples. Whether you’re serving it as a stunning appetizer or pairing it with your favorite sides for a satisfying main course, these Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops are guaranteed to impress and absolutely will not disappoint.
If you’re eager to explore more delightful seafood creations that are both easy and incredibly flavorful, be sure to also try my Shrimp and Vegetable Skillet for a colorful and hearty option, or my vibrant Citrus Salmon Skewers, perfect for grilling or baking.
Why These Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops Will Become Your New Favorite
There are countless reasons why this pan-seared scallop recipe stands out. It’s more than just a quick meal; it’s an experience that combines elegance with effortlessness. Here’s why these Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops are bound to earn a permanent spot in your culinary repertoire:
- Uncomplicated Elegance: Scallops often intimidate home cooks, but this recipe strips away any complexity, delivering a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a high-end restaurant with minimal fuss.
- A Simple Yet Addictive Butter Sauce: The magic truly happens in the sauce. A luxurious blend of fragrant garlic, golden butter, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice creates an unbelievably silky, tangy, and savory coating that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the scallops. A pinch of salt enhances every flavor, making each bite utterly irresistible.
- Remarkably Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you’re planning an intimate dinner for two, hosting a gathering, or simply craving something special on a weeknight, these scallops fit the bill. Serve them as a sophisticated appetizer with crusty bread for dipping, or transform them into a satisfying main course alongside a variety of side dishes.
- A Truly Easy Seafood Masterpiece: Forget lengthy ingredient lists or complicated techniques. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and less than 15 minutes of cooking time, you can achieve perfectly seared scallops. It’s ideal for those new to cooking seafood or anyone seeking a quick, gourmet solution.
- Healthy and Lean Protein: Scallops are an excellent source of lean protein, low in fat, and packed with essential nutrients. This preparation method keeps them light and healthy, making it a guilt-free indulgence that supports a balanced diet.
Essential Ingredients for Pan-Seared Perfection
The beauty of this dish lies in its reliance on fresh, high-quality ingredients that truly shine. You won’t need anything exotic, just a few key components to create a memorable meal:
- Sea Scallops: The star of our show! Opt for large, firm sea scallops for the best texture and searing results.
- Unsalted Butter: Good quality butter is crucial for developing that rich, golden crust and infusing the sauce with creamy flavor.
- Olive Oil: Used in combination with butter, olive oil helps achieve a higher smoke point and a beautiful sear without burning the butter.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning the scallops and bringing out their natural sweetness. Freshly ground black pepper is also highly recommended.
- Fresh Garlic: Minced garlic provides an aromatic depth that is fundamental to the butter sauce. Fresh is always best for maximum flavor.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: A generous squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the entire dish, cutting through the richness of the butter and enhancing the scallops’ delicate flavor.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a vibrant green garnish and a fresh, herbaceous note that complements the other flavors beautifully.
Mastering the Art of Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating perfectly seared scallops is simpler than you might think. Follow these clear instructions to achieve a beautiful golden crust and tender, succulent interiors every time:
- Prepare the Scallops: If using frozen scallops, ensure they are thoroughly thawed. The most critical step for a good sear is to pat your scallops extremely dry with paper towels. Any excess moisture will prevent them from browning properly. Season generously with salt and pepper just before cooking.
- Heat the Skillet: Choose a heavy-bottomed skillet, preferably cast iron or stainless steel, and heat it over medium-high heat. Add a combination of olive oil and butter. You want the pan to be hot enough so that the fat shimmers but doesn’t smoke excessively.
- Sear the Scallops: Once the pan is hot, carefully place the seasoned scallops into the skillet in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes per side. Resist the urge to move them; this is how they develop that coveted golden-brown, caramelized crust.
- Infuse with Garlic and Parsley: After searing both sides to a beautiful golden hue, add the minced garlic and chopped fresh parsley to the pan. Sauté for another minute to a minute and a half, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and the parsley to wilt slightly. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat immediately. Drizzle a generous amount of fresh lemon juice over the cooked scallops. The lemon juice will deglaze the pan slightly, creating an even more flavorful sauce. Serve hot, directly from the pan, or transfer to a serving dish.
Expert Tips for Flawless Scallops Every Time
Achieving restaurant-quality scallops at home is all about paying attention to a few crucial details. These tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure your Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops are nothing short of spectacular:
- Opt for Dry-Packed Scallops: Whenever possible, seek out “dry-packed” scallops. These are natural scallops that haven’t been treated with phosphates, which cause them to retain excess water. Wet-packed scallops will release more liquid in the pan, making it difficult to achieve a proper sear and resulting in a less desirable texture.
- The Golden Rule: Do Not Overcook: This is the single most important tip for cooking scallops. They cook very quickly! Overcooked scallops will become tough, rubbery, and chewy, losing their delicate sweetness and tender texture. Keep a close eye on them; they should be opaque throughout with a beautiful golden crust on each side.
- Pat Dry, Then Pat Again: Even dry-packed scallops benefit from thorough drying. Use several layers of paper towels to absorb as much surface moisture as possible. This ensures a direct transfer of heat to the scallop, leading to a perfect sear rather than steaming. Allow them to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes after drying and before seasoning.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Give your scallops space! If you put too many in the pan at once, the temperature of the skillet will drop significantly. This causes the scallops to release their moisture, essentially boiling instead of searing, preventing any browning and resulting in bland, rubbery shellfish. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Resist the Urge to Move Them: Once the scallops are in the hot pan, leave them alone for the full 2 minutes per side. Moving them interrupts the searing process and prevents the formation of that delicious, crunchy crust. Patience is key for caramelization.
- Consider Batch Cooking: If you’re cooking for a crowd or using a smaller pan, it’s always better to cook your scallops in two or more batches. Sear each batch to perfection, remove them from the pan, and then combine them all back into the skillet when it’s time to add the garlic and butter for the final minute of cooking.
- Add a Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkle a pinch of red chili flakes into the pan alongside the garlic and parsley. The gentle warmth will add another layer of flavor without overpowering the delicate scallops.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: While convenience items have their place, this recipe truly shines with fresh lemon juice and fresh garlic. The vibrant flavors are incomparable to their bottled or pre-minced counterparts.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scallops
Delving deeper into the world of scallops can elevate your cooking and appreciation for this exquisite seafood. Here are answers to some common questions:
What Exactly Are Scallops?
Scallops are fascinating bivalve mollusks, marine animals that belong to the same family as clams, mussels, and oysters. They are distinguished by their fan-shaped, ridged shells, which are where the “scalloped” term originates. Unlike many other bivalves, scallops are capable of swimming by rapidly opening and closing their shells, expelling water to propel themselves. The edible part we typically consume is the adductor muscle, which is responsible for this movement. There are three primary types of scallops commonly found and harvested: Sea Scallops (the largest, usually found in colder, deeper waters), Bay Scallops (smaller and sweeter, found in shallow bay waters), and Calico Scallops (small, often found in warmer, southern waters). While they are found globally, some of the best harvests come from the Atlantic and Mediterranean seas. Their firm, sweet, and delicate flesh makes them a prized seafood.
What’s the Best Way to Thaw Frozen Scallops?
Unless you reside near the coast and have access to freshly caught scallops directly from fishermen, you’ll most likely be purchasing them frozen. Proper thawing is crucial for maintaining their texture and flavor. The safest and most recommended methods are:
- Cold Water Bath: Place the frozen scallops in a sealed bag (if not already packaged) and submerge them in a bowl of cold water. Change the water every 10-15 minutes until the scallops are completely thawed. This usually takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on the quantity.
- Overnight in the Refrigerator: For a more gradual thaw, transfer the frozen scallops to a plate in your refrigerator the night before you plan to cook them. This slow thawing method helps preserve their delicate texture.
Once thawed, it is absolutely essential to pat the scallops very, very dry with paper towels. Any residual moisture will hinder the searing process, preventing a beautiful crust from forming. Additionally, allow the thawed and dried scallops to sit at room temperature for at least 15 minutes before cooking. This ensures they cook more evenly. After this rest period, season them generously with salt and freshly ground pepper.
Beyond Pan-Searing: Exploring Other Scallop Cooking Methods
While pan-searing is undoubtedly one of the most popular and delicious ways to prepare scallops, their versatility allows for various cooking methods, each offering a unique texture and flavor profile. Your choice of cooking method might depend on your dietary preferences or the overall dish you’re creating:
- Grilling: For a smoky flavor and beautiful char marks, thread larger sea scallops onto skewers and grill them over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side. Basting with butter or a marinade can enhance flavor and prevent sticking.
- Baking: A hands-off method, baking scallops in a shallow dish with butter, herbs, and lemon juice can yield tender results. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes, depending on their size. This is a great low-calorie option.
- Sautéing: Similar to pan-searing but often with more liquid (like wine or broth), sautéing can create a softer texture. Cook quickly over medium-high heat until opaque.
- Deep Frying: For those without dietary restrictions, breaded and deep-fried scallops offer a crispy exterior and a juicy interior, reminiscent of classic seafood shack fare. Ensure the oil is hot (350-375°F / 175-190°C) and fry for only 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
Regardless of the method you choose, the cardinal rule for scallops remains the same: **do not overcook them.** They transform from sweet and tender to tough and rubbery in a matter of seconds. Watch them closely, and remove them from the heat as soon as they become opaque throughout.
How to Properly Store Cooked Scallops
Scallops are best enjoyed immediately after cooking to savor their optimal texture and flavor. However, if you find yourself with leftovers, proper storage is key for safety and quality. Cooked scallops should be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated promptly. They can be safely stored in the refrigerator for a maximum of 1-2 days. While you can technically freeze cooked scallops, their delicate texture often suffers significantly upon thawing, becoming tougher and drier. For the best experience, try to cook only what you plan to eat. If you do have leftovers, consider repurposing them quickly into a pasta dish or a light salad to enjoy within the recommended timeframe.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops
These exquisite little beauties are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a wide array of side dishes. Here are some ideas to complete your meal, whether you’re looking for something light, hearty, or fresh:
- Herb and Parmesan Oven Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, these savory potatoes offer a comforting and flavorful contrast to the delicate scallops.
- Oven Baked Brussels Sprouts: Roasted to perfection, these offer a slightly bitter, earthy balance that beautifully complements the sweetness of the scallops and the richness of the butter sauce.
- Spicy Cilantro Hassleback Potatoes: For a more adventurous and visually appealing side, these potatoes offer a delightful texture and a fresh, spicy kick.
- Smashed Sweet Potatoes With Herbs and Garlic: The natural sweetness and creamy texture of sweet potatoes provide a lovely, wholesome pairing that works well with the lemon-garlic flavors.
- Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta: A light, refreshing salad with a sweet and tangy dressing offers a wonderful textural and flavor contrast, balancing the richness of the scallops.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: For a burst of vibrant flavors, this zesty and creamy corn salad adds a festive and unexpected twist to your scallop dinner.
- Simple Pasta with Olive Oil and Herbs: A light pasta dish, tossed with a touch of olive oil, fresh herbs like basil or chives, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, creates a perfect canvas for the scallops.
- Steamed Asparagus or Green Beans: For a simple, elegant, and healthy option, lightly steamed green vegetables provide freshness and crunch.
Explore More Delicious Recipes from My Kitchen
If you’ve enjoyed the simplicity and deliciousness of these Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops, I’m confident you’ll love these other flavorful creations designed to inspire and delight your palate:
- Roasted Garlic Mushrooms: A deeply savory and aromatic side dish that’s perfect for almost any meal.
- Spicy Cashew Chicken: A vibrant and flavorful stir-fry that’s quicker than takeout and bursting with Asian-inspired goodness.
- Baked Honey Garlic Salmon: Another incredibly easy and healthy seafood option, featuring a sweet and savory glaze that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
I truly hope you enjoy every recipe I share with you, especially this mouthwatering Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops. Give it a try, savor every bite, and feel free to rate it and share your delightful experience with your friends and family!
If you whip up this recipe and love it, please tag me on INSTAGRAM using my hashtag #cookinwithmima for a chance to be featured in my story! Also, be sure to follow Cookin’ With Mima on FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | PINTEREST for all my latest culinary adventures, social posts, and delicious recipes. Happy cooking!
Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops
By: Mariam Ezzeddine
Indulge in these super delicious Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops, ready on your plate in just 15 minutes! A truly quick and elegant meal.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs. sea scallops, thawed and patted dry
- 2 tbsps. unsalted butter
- 2 tbsps. olive oil
- 1/2 tsp. salt (or to taste)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp. fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsps. fresh lemon juice
- Freshly ground black pepper (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Thaw and thoroughly pat dry the sea scallops using paper towels. Allow them to rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking.
- While scallops rest, mince the garlic and chop the fresh parsley.
- Heat a non-stick skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and butter to the hot pan.
- Once the butter is melted and the oil is shimmering, carefully add the scallops to the skillet in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear each side for 2 minutes without moving them, allowing a golden crust to form.
- After searing both sides, add the minced garlic and chopped parsley to the pan. Cook for another minute to one and a half minutes, stirring gently, until the garlic is fragrant.
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the cooked scallops and serve immediately.
Notes
- For best results, try to buy “dry-packed” scallops, which have not been treated with phosphates and sear better.
- Scallops cook very quickly; monitor them closely to prevent overcooking, which can make them rubbery.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure the scallops sear properly instead of steaming. Cook in batches if needed.
- For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red chili flakes with the garlic and parsley.
- To achieve a crunchy crust, do not move the scallops during the initial 2 minutes of searing on each side.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 9g |
Protein: 28g |
Fat: 15g |
Saturated Fat: 5g |
Cholesterol: 70mg |
Sodium: 1183mg |
Potassium: 494mg |
Fiber: 1g |
Sugar: 1g |
Vitamin A: 496IU |
Vitamin C: 8mg |
Calcium: 23mg |
Iron: 1mg