![- 1 lb sea scallops, patted dry - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided - 4 cloves garlic, minced - Zest of 1 lemon - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped - Salt and pepper, to taste - Lemon wedges, for garnish Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference in your dish. The sea scallops should be the star. Buy them from a trusted source. Look for ones that are firm and smell fresh. Butter adds richness. Use unsalted butter to control the salt. Garlic gives a fragrant punch. Mince it well, so it spreads evenly. Lemon zest gives bright flavor. It enhances the scallops. Fresh lemon juice adds tang. Fresh parsley brings color and flavor. Use it for garnish, but also mix it in for freshness. Don’t forget salt and pepper for seasoning. Adjust these to your taste. Lastly, lemon wedges are perfect for serving. They provide an extra squeeze of flavor. For the full recipe and instructions, check out the complete guide. First, you need to pat dry the scallops. Use a paper towel to soak up moisture. This step is key for a good sear. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Just a pinch is enough. This adds flavor without overpowering the scallops. Next, choose a large skillet. A non-stick skillet works well. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Wait until it melts and starts to bubble. This shows the pan is hot enough for cooking. Now, place the scallops in the skillet. Make sure they are in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; this helps them sear better. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes. Look for a golden-brown crust on one side. Gently flip each scallop using tongs. Now, add the minced garlic to the pan. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Baste the scallops with the melted butter. This keeps them moist and adds flavor. Once the scallops are opaque and firm, it’s time for lemon. Add the zest and juice from the lemon. Then, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Toss everything gently for one more minute. This combines the flavors well. Finally, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. This adds freshness to your dish. Transfer the scallops to a serving plate. Drizzle with the garlic lemon butter sauce. Garnish with lemon wedges for a bright touch. For a full guide, check the [Full Recipe]. To get that perfect sear on your scallops, aim for a high heat. The skillet should be hot, but not smoking. A good range is between medium-high and high heat. This helps to form a nice crust. Avoid moving the scallops too soon. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes on one side. If you flip them too early, they might stick. Keep the scallops in a single layer. Overcrowding the pan can cause steaming instead of searing. When choosing scallops, fresh is best. Fresh scallops should smell like the ocean, not fishy. They should look plump and slightly moist. If you must use frozen scallops, make sure they are dry-packed. This means they are frozen without extra water, which helps with flavor. Sourcing scallops may vary by location. Local fish markets often have fresher options. If you can, ask for the catch of the day. This ensures you get the best flavor. To kick up the flavor, consider adding spices. A pinch of cayenne can add heat. Alternatively, try using smoked paprika for a unique twist. Herbs can also enhance the dish. Fresh thyme, tarragon, or basil can pair well. You can mix and match herbs for more depth. A little creativity can make your dish shine. For a full guide, check the Full Recipe of garlic lemon butter scallops. {{image_2}} You can use different herbs to change the flavor of your garlic lemon butter scallops. Consider thyme, tarragon, or basil. Each herb brings a unique taste. Mixing herbs can create even more complex flavors. For instance, thyme and lemon work well together. Tarragon adds a hint of sweetness. Basil offers a fresh and aromatic twist. Experiment to find your favorite blend! You can add vegetables to your dish for extra color and nutrition. Asparagus or spinach pairs nicely with scallops. Simply sauté them in the pan before adding the scallops. This adds a lovely crunch and flavor. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. They bring a nice kick without overpowering the dish. Adjust the amount to suit your taste! Pair your scallops with delicious side dishes. A light salad or creamy risotto complements the flavors well. Garlic bread is another great option for scooping up that tasty sauce. For a drink, try a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. It matches the citrus notes of the dish. You can also go for a light sparkling water with lemon. It refreshes the palate beautifully. To keep your garlic lemon butter scallops fresh, follow these steps: - Refrigeration: Place scallops in an airtight container. This keeps them moist and prevents odors. Store in the fridge for up to two days. - Freezing: For longer storage, freeze scallops. Use a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can last about three months in the freezer. When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating carefully is key: - Best Methods: Reheat scallops in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. - Avoiding Texture Changes: Do not microwave them. This can make scallops rubbery. Always heat gently to maintain their tender texture. Knowing how long your cooked scallops last is important: - Fridge Duration: Cooked scallops last in the fridge for about two days. Make sure they are stored properly. - Signs of Spoilage: Check for an off smell, slimy texture, or discoloration. If you notice any of these signs, it's best to discard them. You can tell when scallops are cooked by looking for a few signs. They should turn opaque and firm. The outside should have a nice golden-brown crust. The ideal internal temperature for cooked scallops is 125°F (52°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy if you have one. Yes, you can use frozen scallops. Thaw them in the fridge overnight for the best results. If you are short on time, you can also place them in cold water for about an hour. When cooking, remember that frozen scallops may need a minute or two longer than fresh ones. Garlic lemon butter scallops pair well with many sides. Try serving them over a bed of creamy risotto or alongside steamed asparagus. You can also add a simple salad for a fresh touch. To elevate the dish, garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice. To make this recipe dairy-free, swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative, like olive oil or vegan butter. You can still achieve great flavor. For cooking methods, you can sauté the scallops in oil instead of butter. Just make sure to heat the oil until it’s hot enough for a good sear. This article guides you through making delicious garlic lemon butter scallops. You learned about key ingredients, step-by-step cooking techniques, and essential tips for the perfect result. Scallops can be tricky, but with careful attention to detail, you can create a flavorful dish. Remember to choose fresh scallops and experiment with variations. Serving simple sides and wine will enhance your meal. Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor every bite of your creation!](https://dailydishly.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/07c4918e-d054-436d-9eed-7a883b9d5641-300x300.webp)
Garlic Lemon Butter Scallops
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Garlic Lemon Butter Scallops with this simple recipe! Learn how to perfectly sear scallops and create a rich garlic lemon butter sauce that elevates any meal. With just a handful of ingredients and quick prep time, you can impress your guests or treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at home. Click to explore this easy yet elegant recipe and bring restaurant-quality scallops to your kitchen!