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Lemon Butter Scallops Recipe

4.4 from 116 reviews

This Lemon Butter Scallops recipe features tender sea scallops seared to golden perfection and finished with a vibrant, garlicky lemon butter sauce. A quick and elegant dish perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Scallops

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 pound sea scallops
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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

Instructions

  1. Prepare skillet and melt butter: Melt 1 tablespoon unsalted butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat to get ready for cooking the scallops.
  2. Prepare scallops: Remove the small side muscle from each scallop, rinse them under cold water, and thoroughly pat dry with paper towels to ensure proper searing.
  3. Season and cook scallops: Season the scallops with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Working in batches, add them in a single layer to the hot skillet and cook until golden brown and translucent in the center, about 2-3 minutes per side. Once cooked, set scallops aside and keep warm.
  4. Make lemon butter sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Add minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant—about 1 minute. Stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Serve: Immediately plate the scallops and drizzle the lemon butter sauce over them. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Notes

  • Make sure scallops are completely dry before searing to achieve a nice crust.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking scallops to avoid steaming.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor in the sauce.
  • Cast iron skillet helps in even heat distribution and achieving golden sear.
  • Serve immediately to enjoy scallops at their best texture and flavor.

Keywords: Lemon Butter Scallops, Seared Scallops, Garlic Lemon Sauce, Easy Seafood Recipe, Quick Dinner