Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter is a luxurious yet simple dish that beautifully showcases the sweet, delicate flavor of scallops enhanced by a rich garlic butter sauce. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or a weeknight treat, delivering impressive results with minimal effort. The golden-brown crust on the scallops paired with the aromatic garlic butter creates a mouthwatering combination that is sure to delight your taste buds.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Readers will absolutely love this recipe for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The sweet, tender scallops seared to perfection offer a delightful contrast to the savory garlic butter. It’s a dish that feels gourmet, yet it only takes around 15 minutes to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties. Whether you are following a low-carb, keto, or pescatarian lifestyle, this dish fits seamlessly into your dietary preferences while providing a satisfying and elegant meal.
Tips and Tricks
- Choose the right scallops: Look for dry-packed scallops, as they are fresher and have no added preservatives, ensuring better flavor and searing.
- Pat them dry: Before cooking, ensure the scallops are thoroughly dried with paper towels to achieve that beautiful golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if needed to maintain high heat in the pan, which is crucial for a perfect sear.
- Use a cast-iron skillet: This retains heat well and distributes it evenly, giving you that perfect crust on the scallops.
Make Ahead Tips
- You can prepare the garlic butter ahead of time. Just melt the butter and add minced garlic, then store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently when ready to serve.
- Scallops should be cooked fresh for the best texture, but if you have leftover cooked scallops, they can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Recipe Variations
- Herb-infused butter: Add fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme to the garlic butter for an aromatic twist.
- Spicy kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes into the garlic butter for a spicy variation.
- Alternate cooking methods: Instead of searing, you can grill the scallops for a smoky flavor or bake them in the oven with the garlic butter.
How to Serve
Serve your seared scallops immediately after cooking for maximum flavor and texture. A simple plate with a drizzle of garlic butter over the scallops, garnished with fresh parsley or microgreens, makes for an elegant presentation. Pair with a side of sautéed asparagus, creamy risotto, or a light salad for a complete meal.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Chardonnay complements the dish beautifully. If you prefer cocktails, a refreshing gin and tonic enhances the seafood flavors. On the side, consider pairing with a citrusy arugula salad or a light lemon risotto. For dessert, a lemon sorbet or panna cotta would be a delightful finish.
How to Store
Store any leftover scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them gently in a pan over low heat to avoid overcooking. Scallops do not freeze well due to their delicate texture, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh.
Equipment Needed
- A cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan is essential for achieving a nice sear.
- A spatula for flipping the scallops.
- A small saucepan for preparing the garlic butter sauce.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or olive oil. For a gluten-free version, simply ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, as this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring, pair the scallops with fresh peas or asparagus for a seasonal touch. During summer, serve with bright cherry tomatoes and basil. In fall, a drizzle of sage-infused brown butter can add a warm flavor profile.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen scallops? Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and dry them well before cooking.
- What can I substitute for garlic? You can use shallots for a milder flavor or garlic powder in a pinch, though fresh garlic is best for this recipe.
- How long do scallops take to cook? Typically, scallops need just 2-3 minutes per side, depending on their size.
How To Make Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter
Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter
Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter is a luxurious yet simple dish that beautifully showcases the sweet, delicate flavor of scallops enhanced by a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound sea scallops
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 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.
- In a large cast-iron skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat until melted and bubbling.
- Carefully place the scallops in the skillet, ensuring they are not touching. Sear for about 2-3 minutes without moving them until they develop a golden-brown crust.
- Flip the scallops and add the remaining butter and minced garlic to the pan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, basting the scallops with the melted garlic butter.
- Once cooked, remove the scallops from the pan and plate them. Drizzle with the garlic butter and garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges.
- Serve immediately, enjoying the scallops while they're still warm.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 239Total Fat 13gSaturated Fat 7gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 4gCholesterol 77mgSodium 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 Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter is a delightful experience that brings the flavors of the ocean right to your table. With just a few ingredients and simple techniques, you can create a dish that feels indulgent without the fuss. Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a casual family meal, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy the process and the flavors, and don’t forget to savor every bite!
