Zesty Lemon Butter Scallops Recipe: A Fresh Seafood Delight

Seafood enthusiasts swoon over these delectable lemon butter scallops that melt perfectly in your mouth.

Golden-brown edges hint at the crispy deliciousness waiting to be savored.

The delicate scallops sizzle with a rich, tangy butter sauce that brings ocean freshness to your plate.

Each bite promises a harmony of buttery, zesty flavors that dance across your palate.

Simple ingredients combine to create an elegant dish that looks like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant.

Tender scallops caramelize beautifully, creating a restaurant-quality meal you can easily prepare at home.

Prepare to elevate your dinner with this irresistible seafood sensation that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Everything You Need For Lemon Butter Scallops

• Scallops: Sweet, delicate seafood that demands careful handling; choose fresh, plump scallops with a clean ocean scent and pearly white color.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential flavor enhancers that highlight the scallops' natural sweetness; use freshly ground black pepper for maximum aroma.

• Olive Oil: Provides smooth cooking surface and adds subtle fruity undertones to the scallops; choose extra virgin for best flavor.
• Butter: Creates rich, velvety sauce with nutty depth; select high-quality unsalted butter for controlled seasoning.

• Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that adds depth and warmth; fresh garlic cloves offer more intense flavor compared to pre-minced versions.
• Lemon Juice: Bright, acidic component that cuts through richness and elevates seafood's delicate taste; use freshly squeezed for vibrant zestiness.

• Fresh Parsley: Adds fresh, herbaceous touch and visual appeal; choose bright green leaves without wilting.
• Lemon Wedges: Provides optional extra citrus kick and decorative element; select firm, bright yellow lemons.

Kitchen Tools For Lemon Butter Scallops Made Simple

• Large skillet: Essential for perfectly searing scallops and creating the lemon butter sauce.
• Paper towels: Crucial for drying scallops to achieve a golden-brown sear.
• Cutting board: Needed for chopping parsley and preparing ingredients.
• Chef's knife: Perfect for mincing garlic and chopping fresh parsley.
• Measuring spoons: Helpful for accurately measuring butter and seasoning.
• Tongs: Great for flipping and handling delicate scallops during cooking.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Useful for stirring and coating scallops in sauce.

How To Cook Lemon Butter Scallops Just Right

• Dry and Season Scallops

Gently pat scallops with paper towels to remove extra moisture. Sprinkle with salt and pepper across both sides.

• Sizzle in Hot Pan

Heat olive oil in a large skillet until it’s shimmering and hot. Carefully place scallops in a single layer without crowding. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust and turn opaque in the center.

• Create Zesty Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Stir quickly to release amazing aromas. Pour in fresh lemon juice and let the sauce bubble and dance for about a minute. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

• Finish and Plate

Gently return scallops to the skillet, swirling them to coat in the bright, tangy sauce. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra citrusy kick.

Tips And Swaps For Lemon Butter Scallops

• Perfect Sear Technique: Pat scallops completely dry before cooking to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust that locks in delicious flavors and prevents steaming instead of searing.
• Butter Browning Trick: Use unsalted butter and watch carefully when creating the sauce to develop rich, nutty undertones without burning the delicate milk solids.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Replace traditional butter with clarified butter or ghee for a gluten-free version that maintains the same luxurious taste and texture.
• Protein Pairing Suggestions: Serve these scallops over cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal, or alongside roasted asparagus and quinoa for a complete and nutritious dinner experience.
• Seafood Freshness Tip: Always purchase scallops from a reputable fishmonger and use them within one day of buying to ensure maximum flavor and food safety, checking for a fresh, sweet ocean smell without any strong fishy odors.

Easy Ways To Serve Lemon Butter Scallops

• Seafood Dinner Delight: Serve these golden-brown scallops over a bed of creamy risotto to add luxurious texture and complement the tangy lemon butter sauce.
• Elegant Appetizer Platter: Arrange the scallops on a decorative slate or white plate, drizzle extra sauce around the edges, and garnish with fresh herb sprigs for a restaurant-style presentation.
• Wine Pairing Magic: Match these delicate scallops with a crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to enhance the bright citrus notes and delicate seafood flavor.
• Quick Weeknight Meal Hack: Pair the scallops with a simple mixed green salad and roasted asparagus for a light, nutritious dinner that comes together in less than 20 minutes.

How To Save Lemon Butter Scallops For Later

• Quick Refrigeration Strategy: Store cooked scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep them away from other strong-smelling foods to maintain their delicate flavor.
• Freezing Technique: Wrap individual scallops tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for maximum 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently to prevent toughening.
• Smart Reheating Method: Warm scallops slowly in a skillet with a touch of butter over low heat. Avoid microwave cooking, which can make them rubbery and diminish their tender texture.
• Leftover Transformation: Repurpose cold scallops by chopping and adding to salads, pasta, or creating a quick seafood spread for crackers. Ensure they are consumed within 48 hours of initial cooking for best quality and food safety.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Calories: 350 kcal

Servings: 5

Crispy Lemon Butter Scallops Recipe

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4.9 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Succulent lemon butter scallops elevate seafood with Mediterranean elegance. Quick pan-seared delicacy combines tangy citrus and rich butter for an elegant coastal dining experience.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb (450 g) sea scallops, side muscle removed
• 3 tbsps unsalted butter, divided
• 2 tbsps olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsps fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsps chopped fresh parsley
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Meticulously pat scallops dry using paper towels, removing all surface moisture. Season both sides with salt and cracked black pepper, ensuring uniform coverage.
2. Searing: Heat olive oil in a heavy-based skillet over medium-high temperature until shimmering. Strategically place scallops with ample spacing to prevent steaming, allowing each to develop a rich golden crust. Cook 2-3 minutes per side until surfaces caramelize and centers turn translucent white.
3. Sauce Creation: Remove scallops and reduce skillet heat. Melt butter smoothly, introducing finely minced garlic and stirring constantly to release aromatic essence without browning. Splash fresh lemon juice into the bubbling butter, creating a vibrant sauce that reduces slightly.
4. Finishing: Reunite seared scallops with luminous lemon butter sauce, coating each morsel thoroughly. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley across the dish for a verdant touch. Plate immediately on warmed surfaces, garnishing with additional parsley and optional lemon wedges to enhance visual presentation and provide complementary citrus notes.

Notes

• Moisture Mastery: Thoroughly pat scallops dry with paper towels to achieve a perfect golden-brown sear and prevent unwanted steaming.
• Precision Searing: Use a heavy-based skillet and maintain medium-high heat, leaving space between scallops to create a crisp, caramelized exterior.
• Temperature Control: Watch cooking time closely (2-3 minutes per side) to ensure scallops remain tender and translucent in the center without overcooking.
• Sauce Finesse: Remove garlic from heat immediately to prevent burning, creating a smooth, aromatic lemon butter sauce that complements the delicate scallop flavor.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 5 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg