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Lemon Butter Scallops

Name: Lemon Butter Scallops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh scallops; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Posted on July 5, 2025

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The moment you take a bite of Lemon Butter Scallops, your taste buds are in for a party. Picture succulent scallops, perfectly seared to a golden hue, drizzled with a luscious lemon butter sauce that dances on your palate. grilled flank steak with balsamic The zesty aroma wafts through the air, teasing you with its citrusy promise and buttery richness. Mediterranean grilled cheese It’s like a hug from the ocean, but one that leaves you feeling light and happy instead of soggy.

I remember the first time I made Lemon Butter Scallops for my friends; their faces lit up as they took their first bites. We were celebrating a random Tuesday, but suddenly, it felt like we were dining at a five-star restaurant. As we clinked our glasses in delight, I knew this dish was destined to be a star at any dinner table—perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself after a long day. For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This quick and easy Lemon Butter Scallops recipe combines fresh flavors with minimal prep time
The vibrant presentation makes it an eye-catching dish for any occasion
Perfectly seared scallops paired with tangy lemon create an unforgettable flavor experience
It’s versatile enough to serve as a main course or an elegant appetizer

One memorable evening, my friend John exclaimed that these scallops were better than his favorite seafood restaurant. It was a proud moment for me!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Scallops: Look for plump, moist scallops with a sweet aroma; avoid any that smell overly fishy.
Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter to enhance the richness of the sauce without overwhelming the flavors.
Fresh Lemon Juice: For the best flavor, squeeze your own lemons; bottled juice just doesn’t cut it.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will give you that aromatic kick; avoid pre-minced versions if possible.
Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens up the dish visually and adds a hint of freshness; chop it finely before use.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t be shy—season to your liking!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Scallops: Start by rinsing the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Ensuring they’re dry helps create that delicious golden crust when searing.

Melt the Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until it’s bubbling but not browned. This is where the magic begins!

Add Garlic and Sear Scallops: Toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—before adding the scallops. Ensure they are spaced out in the pan for even cooking.

Sear Until Golden Brown: Cook each side of the scallops for about 2-3 minutes until they develop a lovely golden brown color. The key here is patience; don’t rush flipping them!

Add Lemon Juice and Seasonings: Once both sides are beautifully seared, drizzle fresh lemon juice over the scallops along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently to combine flavors without breaking them apart.

Finish with Parsley and Remaining Butter: Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley along with another tablespoon of butter until melted. This final touch elevates your dish into something divine!

Now you’re ready to serve! Plate those beautiful Lemon Butter Scallops with some zestful lemon wedges on the side and watch everyone swoon at your culinary prowess! Enjoy this delightful dish that’s sure to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire!

You Must Know

Preparing Lemon Butter Scallops is a delightful experience that combines simplicity with exquisite flavor
The aromatic blend of lemon and butter creates a divine scent that wafts through your kitchen, sure to impress anyone nearby
Remember, fresh scallops are key for the best taste!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the scallops in a hot pan to get that golden color, then add the lemon-butter sauce for flavor infusion.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme or parsley for added freshness. A splash of white wine can also elevate the dish beautifully.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently on low heat to avoid overcooking.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve perfectly seared scallops, make sure they are dry before cooking
Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain high heat
Finally, always taste your sauce before serving; adjust seasoning as needed for balance

The first time I made Lemon Butter Scallops, my friends raved about them! It felt fantastic hearing their compliments, especially after a minor kitchen mishap involving too much butter.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, but thaw them completely and pat dry for best results.

What can I serve with Lemon Butter Scallops?

Serve with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. creamy garlic Parmesan pasta. street corn pasta salad.

How do I know when scallops are cooked?

Scallops should be opaque and firm to the touch when fully cooked.