This Keto Scallops recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, showcasing succulent scallops perfectly pan-seared in a luscious garlic butter sauce. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering, this dish combines the rich umami of scallops with the aromatic punch of garlic and herbs. The best part? It’s low in carbs and fits seamlessly into your keto lifestyle, making it a satisfying choice for anyone watching their carbohydrate intake.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will fall in love with this keto scallops recipe for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The scallops are naturally sweet and tender, and when seared to a golden perfection, they create a delightful contrast with the savory garlic butter sauce. This dish requires just a handful of ingredients and can be prepared in under 20 minutes, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that fits perfectly into your keto diet, allowing you to enjoy a seafood delicacy without any of the carbs.
Tips and Tricks
- Pat Dry: Always pat the scallops dry with a paper towel before cooking. This step ensures a beautiful sear and prevents them from steaming in the pan.
- High Heat: Use high heat when searing the scallops to achieve that coveted caramelized crust. This enhances the flavor and texture.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: If you’re cooking a large batch, sear the scallops in batches. Crowding the pan will lower the temperature and result in steaming rather than searing.
- Herb Infusion: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the butter as it melts.
Make Ahead Tips
While scallops are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time. Simply melt the butter, add the garlic, and herbs, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When you’re ready to cook, just reheat the sauce in a pan while you sear the scallops.
Recipe Variations
- Citrus Zest: Add a splash of lemon or lime juice to the butter sauce for a refreshing twist.
- Spicy Kick: For heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper into the garlic butter.
- Different Proteins: Substitute scallops with shrimp or even chicken breast for a different protein option.
How to Serve
Serve your perfectly seared scallops on a warm plate, drizzled with the aromatic garlic butter sauce. Pair them with a fresh salad or sautéed low-carb vegetables like zucchini noodles or asparagus for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh herbs for a vibrant pop of color.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement your keto scallops, consider pairing them with a chilled glass of dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light cocktail like a gin and tonic. For sides, a creamy cauliflower mash or a side of roasted Brussels sprouts would enhance the dish beautifully. For dessert, a keto-friendly cheesecake or dark chocolate mousse would round out the meal perfectly.
How to Store
Leftover cooked scallops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them gently in a pan over low heat to prevent them from becoming rubbery. Avoid freezing cooked scallops, as they don’t reheat well. However, raw scallops can be frozen for up to 3 months before cooking.
Equipment Needed
- Cast Iron Skillet: Ideal for achieving a perfect sear on the scallops.
- Tongs: For flipping the scallops without damaging them.
- Spatula: A flat spatula can be helpful when serving.
Dietary Adaptations
This recipe is naturally keto-friendly and gluten-free. For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. If you have seafood allergies, you can use chicken breast or tofu as a protein substitute, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
Seasonal Adaptations
In summer, pair your scallops with fresh tomatoes or corn for a vibrant seasonal touch. In the fall, consider adding a sprinkle of pumpkin spice to the garlic butter for a unique flavor twist. In winter, adding some sautéed spinach or kale can bring a warm, comforting element to the dish.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen scallops? Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
- How long do I cook the scallops? Generally, 2-3 minutes on each side over high heat is ideal.
- Can I substitute garlic powder for fresh garlic? While fresh garlic is recommended for its robust flavor, you can use garlic powder in a pinch, though the taste may be milder.
How To Make keto scallops recipe
Keto Scallops
This Keto Scallops recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, showcasing succulent scallops perfectly pan-seared in a luscious garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh scallops
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Begin by patting the scallops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
- Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt, swirling it around the pan.
- Once the butter is foamy, carefully place the scallops in the skillet, ensuring they are not touching.
- Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes until they develop a golden crust. Do not move them around during cooking.
- Gently flip the scallops using tongs and add the minced garlic to the pan.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the scallops are opaque and the garlic is fragrant.
- Remove the scallops from the skillet and plate them.
- Drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the scallops and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Nutrition Information
Yield
2Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 475Total Fat 25gSaturated Fat 15gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 8gCholesterol 154mgSodium 1666mgCarbohydrates 18gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 48g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This keto scallops recipe is not only quick and easy but also elegant enough to impress your guests. The combination of buttery garlic sauce and perfectly seared scallops creates a dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re enjoying it as a weeknight dinner or serving it at a special occasion, this recipe is bound to delight your taste buds. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the variations and make it your own! Happy cooking!
