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Lemon Butter Scallops

Featured in Fish Made Simple.

These Lemon Butter Scallops transform just a few simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish in minutes. The secret lies in properly preparing the scallops - patting them completely dry and cooking at high heat for the perfect golden crust while maintaining a tender center. The garlic-lemon butter sauce adds brightness and richness, while fresh parsley brings color and freshness. Ready in just 20 minutes total, this elegant dish proves that exceptional seafood doesn't require complicated techniques or numerous ingredients.
Soo Ben
Updated on Thu, 23 Jan 2025 03:14:32 GMT
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Lemon Butter Scallops | mamamiakitchen.com

Perfectly seared scallops swimming in lemony butter sauce create an elegant seafood dish that rivals any fine dining experience. With just a handful of quality ingredients and proper technique, you can master restaurant-worthy scallops right in your own kitchen.

The first time I prepared these scallops, I was amazed at how something so simple could taste so luxurious. Now they're my go-to when I want to impress dinner guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Essential Ingredients Guide

  • Sea scallops: Look for large, dry-packed scallops
  • Butter: Unsalted allows better seasoning control
  • Fresh lemon: Both juice and zest add brightness
  • Garlic: Fresh minced provides best flavor
  • Parsley: Adds color and fresh herb note

Step-by-Step Method

Prepare the Scallops
Remove side muscle if present
Pat completely dry with paper towels
Season just before cooking
Let come to room temperature
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Delicious Lemon Butter Scallops | mamamiakitchen.com
Perfect the Sear
Heat pan until very hot
Add butter and oil
Place scallops with space between
Don't move for 2-3 minutes
Flip only once
Create the Sauce
Add butter to pan juices
Squeeze fresh lemon juice
Swirl to combine
Spoon over scallops
Garnish and serve immediately

My favorite memory is serving these for my parents' anniversary dinner. The perfectly golden crust and tender center had them convinced I'd taken cooking classes.

Perfect Pairings

Serve over risotto or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A simple green vegetable completes the plate.

Make-Ahead Tips

Have everything prepped and ready - this dish comes together quickly once you start cooking.

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Homemade Lemon Butter Scallops Recipe | mamamiakitchen.com

After years of making scallops, I've learned that success lies in proper preparation and patience during searing. Get these elements right, and you'll create a memorable dish that's both elegant and surprisingly simple.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I pick fresh scallops?
Look for firm, slightly translucent scallops with a sweet, ocean-fresh smell. Avoid any that appear milky or have a strong fishy odor.
→ Why pat scallops dry?
Moisture prevents proper searing. Thoroughly drying helps achieve that golden-brown crust.
→ Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, but thaw completely and pat very dry before cooking to ensure proper searing.
→ Why do my scallops stick to the pan?
Make sure pan is very hot and scallops are completely dry. Don't move them until they've developed a good crust.
→ What can I serve with these?
Serve over pasta, with risotto, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Easy Lemon Butter Scallops

Golden-brown sea scallops in a rich garlic lemon butter sauce - ready in just 10 minutes.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
10 Minutes
Total Time
20 Minutes
By: Sou

Category: Seafood

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Scallops

01 1 pound sea scallops
02 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
03 Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Lemon Butter Sauce

04 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
05 3 cloves garlic, minced
06 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
07 Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
08 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves

Instructions

Step 01

Remove small side muscle from scallops, rinse with cold water and thoroughly pat dry.

Step 02

Melt 1 tablespoon butter in large cast iron skillet over medium high heat. Season scallops with salt and pepper. Cook in single layer, 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and translucent in center.

Step 03

In same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.

Step 04

Serve scallops immediately with lemon butter sauce, garnished with parsley if desired.

Notes

  1. Cook scallops in batches to avoid overcrowding
  2. Thoroughly drying scallops ensures better browning

Tools You'll Need

  • Large cast iron skillet
  • Paper towels

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (butter)
  • Contains shellfish (scallops)