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These Lemon Butter Scallops are a perfect marriage of flavors and textures. The scallops are seared to a beautiful golden-brown crust on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. Drizzled with a rich and zesty lemon butter sauce, they become a restaurant-quality dish that you can easily make at home in just 10 minutes.
Whether you’re planning a special dinner for guests or a quick weeknight meal, these scallops are sure to impress. The simplicity of this dish allows the delicate flavor of the scallops to shine through, while the lemon butter sauce adds a burst of freshness and richness that complements them perfectly. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad for a complete, elegant meal.
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Full Recipe:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 pound scallops
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
Directions:
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- Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove the small side muscle from the scallops, rinse with cold water, and thoroughly pat dry.
- Season the scallops with salt and pepper, to taste.
- Working in batches, add the scallops to the skillet in a single layer and cook, flipping once, until golden brown and translucent in the center, about 1-2 minutes per side. Set aside and keep warm.
- For the lemon butter sauce: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the skillet. Add garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in lemon juice; season with salt and pepper, to taste.
- Serve the scallops immediately with the lemon butter sauce, garnished with parsley if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 200 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or an impressive, yet simple meal for guests.
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: Scallops can be intimidating, but this recipe ensures perfectly seared scallops with a delicious lemon butter sauce that tastes just as good as what you’d find in a fine dining restaurant.
- Flavorful and Versatile: The combination of the rich, buttery sauce and the fresh lemon juice brings out the natural sweetness of the scallops. You can pair this dish with various sides, like roasted vegetables, crusty bread, or a light salad.
Tips for Cooking Scallops Perfectly
- Pat Dry: To achieve that beautiful golden-brown sear, make sure to pat the scallops dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture allows the scallops to caramelize better in the pan.
- Hot Pan: Ensure your skillet is properly heated before adding the scallops. A hot pan helps to form that perfect crust without overcooking the scallops.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the scallops in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming rather than searing, preventing that nice golden crust.
Serving Suggestions
Lemon Butter Scallops are versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides:
- Vegetables: Serve with roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or a medley of roasted root vegetables.
- Grains: Pair with quinoa, couscous, or rice to soak up the delicious lemon butter sauce.
- Pasta: For a more indulgent option, serve the scallops over a bed of linguine or angel hair pasta, lightly tossed in the lemon butter sauce.
Wine Pairing
This dish pairs beautifully with a light and crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. The acidity of the wine complements the lemony butter sauce and balances the richness of the scallops.
Nutritional Information
Scallops are not only delicious but also a great source of lean protein. This recipe offers a good balance of healthy fats and protein while keeping carbs low. It’s a great option for those on a keto or low-carb diet.
Recipe Variations
- Herb Variations: While parsley is used in this recipe, you can switch it up with fresh herbs like dill or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Garlic Lover’s Option: If you love garlic, add an extra clove or two to the sauce for an even more robust flavor.
- Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
FAQ About Scallops
- What Are the Best Scallops to Use?
Sea scallops are ideal for this recipe due to their larger size, making them easier to sear. Look for “dry” scallops, which have not been treated with preservatives, as they sear better than “wet” scallops. - Can I Use Frozen Scallops?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a bowl of cold water for a quicker thaw. Be sure to pat them dry thoroughly before cooking.
Storing and Reheating
- Storing: Store any leftover scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a little butter to avoid overcooking. Scallops can become rubbery if reheated too quickly or at high heat.
The Perfect Occasion
Lemon Butter Scallops make an excellent choice for a variety of occasions:
- Date Night: Impress your partner with this sophisticated, yet easy-to-make dish.
- Holiday Meals: Serve as an elegant appetizer or main course for holidays like Valentine’s Day, Easter, or New Year’s Eve.
- Dinner Parties: Wow your guests with a gourmet meal that takes minimal effort.
The Health Benefits of Scallops
- Lean Protein: Scallops are an excellent source of lean protein, offering about 20 grams of protein per 100-gram serving. They are low in fat and calories, making them an ideal option for those looking to maintain or lose weight without sacrificing flavor.
- Rich in Nutrients: They are rich in essential nutrients like Vitamin B12, magnesium, and potassium, which are crucial for heart health, nerve function, and maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Scallops contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and support in maintaining cardiovascular health.
Selecting and Preparing Scallops
- Choosing Fresh Scallops: When buying fresh scallops, look for ones that have a fresh, slightly sweet sea smell. They should not have a strong fishy odor. Fresh scallops are usually creamy white or slightly pinkish.
- Dry Scallops vs. Wet Scallops: Opt for “dry” scallops, which means they haven’t been soaked in phosphates or water. “Wet” scallops, on the other hand, have been treated with a solution that can affect their flavor and texture and make them more challenging to sear.
- Thawing Frozen Scallops: If using frozen scallops, place them in the refrigerator overnight to thaw slowly. If you need a quicker option, place them in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water for 30 minutes to an hour.
Advanced Cooking Tips
- Perfect Searing Technique: To get the perfect sear on your scallops, make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the scallops. You should hear a sizzle when they hit the pan. Avoid moving them around while they cook; this allows a caramelized crust to form.
- Use a Cast Iron Skillet: A cast iron skillet is ideal for cooking scallops because it retains and distributes heat evenly, helping to achieve that beautiful golden crust.
- Cooking Time is Key: Scallops cook very quickly, usually within 1-2 minutes per side. Overcooking them can make them tough and rubbery. They are done when they turn opaque and firm to the touch.
Garnishing Ideas
- Herbs and Citrus Zest: Garnish with finely chopped parsley and a sprinkle of lemon zest for a burst of freshness and color.
- Microgreens: For a more sophisticated presentation, top with microgreens like arugula or pea shoots to add a subtle, peppery flavor.
- Edible Flowers: If you’re serving this dish for a special occasion, consider garnishing with edible flowers like nasturtiums or violets for a pop of color and a touch of elegance.
Customization and Add-Ons
- Vegetable Additions: Add some sautéed spinach or asparagus directly to the skillet after cooking the scallops. The greens will soak up the lemon butter sauce, making for a delicious and healthy side.
- Creamy Twist: For a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream to the lemon butter sauce, allowing it to simmer until slightly thickened.
- Citrus Variations: While lemon is classic, you can experiment with other citrus fruits like lime or orange for a different flavor profile. A mix of citrus juices can add a more complex depth of flavor to the sauce.
What Makes This Recipe Unique
- Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor: With only a handful of ingredients, this recipe delivers a burst of flavor. The key is in using high-quality scallops and fresh lemon juice to create a sauce that enhances the natural sweetness of the seafood.
- Elegant Simplicity: The simplicity of this recipe is what makes it stand out. It’s not about masking the flavor of the scallops but rather elevating them with just the right amount of seasoning and a touch of lemony brightness.
Pairing Suggestions
- Starches: Serve over creamy mashed potatoes or risotto for a heartier meal. The starch will help balance the richness of the butter sauce.
- Crusty Bread: Offer a side of crusty French bread or a baguette to sop up every drop of the luscious lemon butter sauce.
- Salad Pairing: A light, refreshing salad with a citrus vinaigrette, like arugula or mixed greens, complements the rich, buttery scallops beautifully.
Alternative Cooking Methods
- Grilled Scallops: For a smoky flavor, try grilling the scallops. Brush them with a little olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill for about 2 minutes on each side. Serve with the lemon butter sauce drizzled over the top.
- Baked Scallops: If you prefer a hands-off approach, bake the scallops in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes. Arrange them in a baking dish, top with the butter, garlic, and lemon mixture, and bake until they are opaque and slightly firm.
Cultural and Culinary Context
Scallops are a delicacy enjoyed in many cuisines around the world. In French cooking, they are often served “à la meunière,” meaning lightly floured and cooked in a butter sauce. In Japanese cuisine, scallops are frequently served raw in sashimi or seared briefly for sushi. This Lemon Butter Scallops recipe takes inspiration from classic European techniques, focusing on the natural sweetness of the scallops complemented by a simple yet luxurious sauce.
Cooking for a Crowd
If you’re planning to serve this dish at a dinner party, consider doubling the recipe. Cook the scallops in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, and keep them warm in a low oven (200°F or 93°C) until ready to serve. Prepare the lemon butter sauce just before serving to ensure it’s fresh and vibrant.
Storage and Freezing
- Freezing Cooked Scallops: While fresh-cooked scallops are best enjoyed immediately, you can freeze leftovers. Place the scallops in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove in a skillet with a bit of butter.
- Storing Sauce: The lemon butter sauce can be stored separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on low heat and whisk well to bring it back together before serving.
Conclusion
Lemon Butter Scallops are a quick, elegant dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors to your home kitchen. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, you can achieve perfectly seared scallops in a rich, zesty lemon butter sauce. Whether for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this versatile and flavorful recipe is sure to impress.