Print

Pan-Seared Garlic Butter Lemon Scallops

Five perfectly seared Garlic Butter Scallops with Lemon sauce and fresh parsley.
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A straightforward recipe for achieving perfectly seared scallops coated in a rich garlic butter and bright lemon sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large sea scallops, patted very dry
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Pat the scallops completely dry using paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
  3. Place the scallops in the hot skillet, ensuring they do not touch. Sear for 2 to 3 minutes without moving them until a deep golden-brown crust forms.
  4. Flip the scallops and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until opaque throughout. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
  5. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  6. Pour in the white wine or broth. Let it simmer and reduce slightly for about 1 minute, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  7. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley.
  8. Return the scallops to the pan and gently toss them in the sauce to coat. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For the best sear, ensure your scallops are completely dry before cooking. Moisture prevents browning.
  • If using frozen scallops, thaw them fully and then dry them thoroughly.
  • You can substitute fresh thyme or chives for parsley in the sauce.
  • Serve these scallops over pasta, rice, or alongside steamed asparagus.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookifyme.com/garlic-butter-scallops-with-lemon/