Indulge in the luxurious flavors of Buttery Garlic Seared Scallops, a dish that brings the essence of seafood dining straight to your kitchen. With perfectly seared scallops enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce, this recipe showcases the delicate sweetness of scallops while delivering an irresistible aroma that will have everyone at the table excited. Whether for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight meal, these scallops are sure to impress with their simplicity and elegance.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Buttery Garlic Seared Scallops recipe is an absolute delight for seafood lovers and home cooks alike. The scallops are tender and juicy, while the garlic butter sauce adds a layer of flavor that is both rich and satisfying. This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for anyone looking to create a gourmet experience without spending hours in the kitchen. Moreover, it aligns well with various diets, being naturally low in carbs and high in protein, making it a great option for those following keto or paleo lifestyles.
Tips and Tricks
- Choosing the Right Scallops: Opt for dry scallops over wet scallops if possible; dry scallops are firmer and have a better flavor.
- Pat Dry: Make sure to thoroughly pat the scallops dry with paper towels before cooking. This helps achieve a beautiful golden crust when searing.
- Preheat the Pan: A hot pan is crucial for perfect searing. Heat your skillet until it’s very hot before adding the scallops.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Cook the scallops in batches if necessary. Overcrowding will lower the pan temperature, resulting in steaming instead of searing.
Make Ahead Tips
While scallops are best cooked fresh, you can prepare components in advance. You can mince garlic and measure out the butter ahead of time, storing them in the refrigerator. This will save you time on the day you plan to cook. If you’re meal prepping, consider cooking the scallops in advance and reheating gently in the pan with a bit of fresh butter.
Recipe Variations
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the garlic butter for a fresh twist.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter for some heat.
- Citrus Zing: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the scallops just before serving for added brightness.
- Alternate Cooking Method: Instead of pan-searing, try grilling the scallops for a smoky flavor.
How to Serve
Serve your Buttery Garlic Seared Scallops on a bed of creamy risotto or alongside a light salad for a well-rounded meal. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. A slice of lemon on the side not only enhances presentation but also provides a fresh burst of flavor when squeezed over the scallops.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair these scallops with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay, to complement the richness of the dish. For a non-alcoholic option, consider sparkling water with a splash of lemon. As for sides, roasted asparagus or a simple arugula salad would make excellent companions, while a light dessert, such as a lemon sorbet, would round out the meal beautifully.
How to Store
Leftover scallops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat with a bit of butter to prevent drying out. Scallops are not ideal for freezing, as their texture may change upon thawing.
Equipment Needed
- A cast iron skillet or non-stick frying pan (a heavy-bottomed skillet is ideal for even heat distribution).
- A spatula for flipping the scallops.
- A sharp knife and cutting board for mincing garlic.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. For a gluten-free version, ensure any additional sauces or sides are gluten-free as well. This dish is naturally low-carb and suitable for paleo diets.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, consider adding seasonal vegetables like zucchini or corn as a side dish. In the fall, pairing the scallops with a butternut squash puree can add a comforting, seasonal touch.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen scallops? Yes, but thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
- What is the best way to season scallops? A simple seasoning of salt and pepper enhances their natural flavor; the garlic butter will add the rest.
- How long does it take to cook scallops? Typically, 2-3 minutes per side is ideal, depending on their size.
How To Make Buttery Garlic Seared Scallops
Buttery Garlic Seared Scallops
Indulge in the luxurious flavors of Buttery Garlic Seared Scallops, a dish that brings the essence of seafood dining straight to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large sea scallops
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Start by patting the scallops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat a cast iron skillet or non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat until hot.
- Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan and let it melt, swirling to coat the bottom.
- Carefully add the scallops in a single layer, ensuring they’re not touching. Cook for 2-3 minutes without moving them until they develop a golden crust.
- Gently flip the scallops using a spatula, and add the minced garlic to the pan.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, spooning the melted butter over the scallops as they cook.
- Once the scallops are opaque and firm to the touch, remove them from the pan and transfer to a serving platter.
- Drizzle the remaining butter and garlic from the pan over the scallops and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 212Total Fat 10gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 3gCholesterol 69mgSodium 833mgCarbohydrates 9gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 24g
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
Making Buttery Garlic Seared Scallops is a rewarding experience that brings restaurant-quality dining to your home. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, you can impress your family and friends with this elegant dish. Enjoy the process, savor every bite, and don’t forget to share your culinary creations! Happy cooking!
