Pan-Seared Scallops with Garlic Lemon Butter

Elevate your dinner with these Pan-Seared Scallops featuring a delectable Garlic Lemon Butter sauce. Ready in just 10 minutes, this dish combines the sweet, buttery flavor of scallops with the bright, zesty notes of lemon and garlic, making it an ideal option for a quick yet gourmet meal.

Ingredients:

• 6 large sea scallops
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions/Directions:

1. Prepare Scallops: Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Sear Scallops: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the scallops to the skillet, searing each side for 1-2 minutes until golden brown and opaque in the center. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make Lemon Butter Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the lemon juice and stir to blend.
4. Finish and Serve: Return the scallops to the skillet, spooning the lemon butter sauce over them to reheat briefly. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2

FAQ:

• Can I use frozen scallops? Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best texture.
• What sides pair well with scallops? Light salads, asparagus, or a bed of creamy risotto complement scallops beautifully.
• Can I substitute the butter? For a lighter option, you can use olive oil, though it will alter the flavor slightly.

Conclusion:
These Pan-Seared Scallops with Garlic Lemon Butter make for a sophisticated yet simple dish that impresses without the fuss. Perfect for date nights or special occasions, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Hashtags:
#SearedScallops #LemonButterSauce #QuickDinner #SeafoodRecipe #GourmetCooking #EasyWeeknightDinner