Description
Pan-seared scallops with lemon butter sauce is a quick and elegant seafood dish with a golden crust and a tangy, buttery finish. Perfect for special occasions or a gourmet weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the scallops:
- 1 pound sea scallops (dry-packed)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For the lemon butter sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Scallops
- Pat scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Sear the Scallops
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once butter is melted and foamy, add scallops in a single layer without touching.
- Sear for 2-3 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until just opaque.
- Remove scallops from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, add butter and garlic, sauté for 30 seconds.
- Pour in white wine (if using) and reduce by half, about 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in lemon juice, zest, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
- Return scallops to pan and spoon sauce over them.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer scallops to plates and drizzle with extra sauce.
- Serve immediately with sides like roasted vegetables, risotto, or pasta.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with butter to avoid overcooking.
- Substitutions: Use chicken broth or extra lemon juice instead of white wine.
- Perfect Sear Tip: Ensure scallops are completely dry, use high heat, and do not overcrowd the pan.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: seafood
Keywords: pan-seared scallops, lemon butter sauce, easy seafood recipe, scallops with sauce, quick dinner recipe