Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops
Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops are a delicious and elegant seafood dish that combines the delicate sweetness of scallops with the tangy flavors of lemon and garlic. The scallops are seared to perfection in a hot skillet and then coated in a luscious buttery sauce. This dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Serve the scallops with your favorite side dishes or over a bed of pasta or rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 pound scallops, patted dry
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
INSTRUCTIONS
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the scallops with salt and black pepper on both sides.
Add butter to the hot skillet and let it melt.
Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Carefully add the scallops to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook the scallops for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the scallops.
Remove the cooked scallops from the skillet and transfer them to a serving dish.
In the same skillet, add lemon juice and lemon zest. Stir well to combine with the butter and garlic.
Pour the lemon-garlic butter sauce over the cooked scallops.
Garnish the Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops with fresh chopped parsley.
Serve the scallops immediately while they are still warm. They can be enjoyed as an appetizer, a main dish, or as part of a seafood platter.
TIPS
- Choose fresh and high-quality scallops for the best flavor and texture.
- Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel before cooking to ensure a nice sear.
- Use a hot skillet to quickly sear the scallops and achieve a golden brown crust.
- Avoid overcooking the scallops to keep them tender and juicy. They should be opaque and just cooked through.
- Feel free to add additional seasonings such as herbs or spices to the butter sauce for extra flavor.
- Serve the Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, steamed asparagus, or a fresh salad.
- Pair the dish with a crisp white wine or a light citrusy beer for a delightful flavor combination.
- Leftover scallops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. They can be enjoyed cold or gently reheated before serving.
NUTRITION VALUE
- Calories: Approximately 200-250 calories
- Protein: Around 20-25 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 2-5 grams
- Fat: Around 12-15 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 0 grams
