Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter Recipe

Introduction

Scallops are a luxurious and elegant seafood option that can elevate any meal, and Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter is a dish that beautifully showcases their delicate, sweet flavor. The scallops are seared to a perfect golden-brown crust, while the garlic butter adds a rich, savory touch that complements the natural sweetness of the scallops. This dish is easy to prepare yet makes for a show-stopping entrée, ideal for both a special occasion or an everyday dinner when you want to treat yourself and your guests to something extraordinary.

Seared scallops are often considered a high-end dish, yet with the right technique, they can be made at home with ease. The key to perfectly seared scallops lies in achieving the perfect balance between a crisp outer layer and a tender, succulent inside. In this recipe, the garlic butter not only enhances the flavor of the scallops but also creates a mouthwatering sauce to drizzle over the top or serve alongside. Whether you’re preparing this dish as a starter, a main course, or a side, Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter is sure to impress.

In this article, we’ll guide you through every step of making the perfect seared scallops, from selecting the freshest scallops to mastering the technique of searing. We’ll also provide tips and tricks to ensure your scallops come out perfectly every time, and offer suggestions for pairing sides and variations to personalize the dish.

Why You’ll Love Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter

• Simple yet Elegant: This recipe is deceptively simple but produces a dish that tastes luxurious and impressive. It’s perfect for both casual and formal dining occasions.
• Delicate Flavor: Scallops have a naturally sweet, delicate flavor that pairs wonderfully with the richness of garlic butter.
• Quick to Prepare: With just a few ingredients and a short cooking time, you can prepare a gourmet meal in under 30 minutes.
• Customizable: This dish can be easily customized by adding herbs, spices, or even a splash of white wine to the garlic butter.
• Healthy and Light: Scallops are a great source of lean protein and are low in calories, making this dish a light yet satisfying option.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 200-250 calories, depending on portion size and the amount of butter used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 200-250 kcal
• Fat: 15-18g
• Carbohydrates: 2-3g
• Protein: 22-25g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 1g

Ingredients

For the Seared Scallops:

• 1 lb (450g) sea scallops (about 16-20 scallops)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon white wine (optional, for added depth of flavor)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Scallops

Start by preparing the scallops. If your scallops are still in their shells, carefully remove them from the shell and discard any tough side muscles. Make sure to pat the scallops dry with paper towels, as moisture on the surface will prevent them from searing properly. Dry scallops are essential for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust.

Once the scallops are dry, season them with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. Be sure not to over-season, as the garlic butter sauce will add additional flavor.

2. Heat the Pan

For perfect seared scallops, it’s important to use a heavy-bottomed skillet, preferably a cast-iron or stainless steel pan. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes. You want the pan to be hot before adding the scallops so that they sear properly and develop a crispy exterior.

Once the pan is hot, add the olive oil and let it heat up for about 1 minute. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.

3. Sear the Scallops

Carefully place the seasoned scallops in the hot pan, making sure they don’t touch each other. Overcrowding the pan can cause the scallops to steam instead of sear, so it’s important to leave some space between them. Cook the scallops in batches if necessary.

Let the scallops cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes on the first side. You’ll know it’s time to flip them when they easily release from the pan and have a beautiful golden-brown crust. Use tongs or a spatula to carefully flip the scallops.

Cook the scallops on the second side for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until they are opaque and have a slightly firm texture. The inside should remain tender and moist, so avoid overcooking. Keep in mind that scallops cook very quickly, and the key is to remove them from the pan just as they reach the perfect doneness.

4. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

While the scallops are searing, it’s time to prepare the garlic butter sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

If you’re using white wine, add it to the pan at this point and allow it to simmer for 1-2 minutes to cook off the alcohol and concentrate the flavors. Then, stir in the fresh lemon juice, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

If you’d like to add a bit more freshness, stir in some chopped parsley at the end of the cooking process.

5. Serve the Scallops

Once the scallops are perfectly seared, transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle the warm garlic butter sauce over the top of the scallops, ensuring each one is coated with the delicious sauce. Garnish with additional fresh parsley for color and a burst of freshness.

For an extra touch of flavor, squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the scallops right before serving. This adds a bright, zesty contrast to the richness of the garlic butter sauce.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Your Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter are now ready to be enjoyed! This dish is perfect when served with a side of steamed vegetables, a light salad, or some garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce.

Tips for Perfect Seared Scallops

• Pat the Scallops Dry: One of the most important steps in achieving a perfect sear is ensuring the scallops are completely dry. Use paper towels to blot off any excess moisture before cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the pan can cause the scallops to steam rather than sear. Cook the scallops in batches if necessary to give them plenty of room in the pan.
• Use High Heat: The pan needs to be hot in order to sear the scallops properly. Medium-high heat is ideal for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust.
• Avoid Overcooking: Scallops cook very quickly, so be sure to keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. The scallops should be golden on the outside and slightly firm but still tender and moist on the inside.
• Fresh Scallops: For the best flavor, always choose fresh scallops if possible. Look for scallops with a clean, ocean-like scent and avoid those that smell fishy or have a slimy texture.
• Garlic Butter Variations: Feel free to customize your garlic butter sauce by adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or tarragon for additional flavor. You can also use a splash of white wine or even a bit of heavy cream for a richer sauce.

Variations of Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter

• Spicy Garlic Butter Scallops: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter for a spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the sweet scallops.
• Herbed Garlic Butter Scallops: For added depth of flavor, try mixing fresh herbs like thyme, tarragon, or rosemary into the garlic butter sauce. These herbs complement the scallops beautifully.
• Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops: Add more lemon zest or lemon juice to the garlic butter sauce for an extra burst of freshness that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the scallops.
• Scallops in White Wine Sauce: For a more decadent version, replace some of the butter with heavy cream and a splash of white wine. This creates a creamy, luxurious sauce that elevates the dish.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a perfect complement to the richness of the scallops and garlic butter sauce. The soft potatoes soak up the sauce, creating a satisfying bite.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or baby carrots, add a flavorful and colorful side to balance the richness of the scallops.
• Steamed Rice: A simple side of steamed rice is an excellent choice to pair with the scallops. The rice absorbs the extra garlic butter sauce and makes for a delicious, light meal.
• Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: A fresh salad with a tangy lemon vinaigrette provides a bright contrast to the buttery scallops and helps cut through the richness of the dish.
• Garlic Bread: Serve your seared scallops with garlic bread to soak up the savory garlic butter sauce and add a crunchy element to the meal.

Storage and Shelf Life

While fresh seared scallops are best enjoyed immediately, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, or microwave for 30-second intervals, being careful not to overcook them.

You can freeze cooked scallops, but their texture may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, place the scallops in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then gently warm in a pan.

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Conclusion

Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter is a quick, elegant, and flavorful dish that anyone can make at home with just a few ingredients. The perfectly seared scallops, paired with a rich garlic butter sauce, make for an irresistible combination that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re preparing this dish for a romantic dinner, a dinner party, or a weeknight treat, it’s a recipe that delivers both flavor and sophistication. Try it for yourself, and experience the beauty of perfectly cooked scallops combined with the decadence of garlic butter!