Looking for an elegant dish that feels restaurant-quality but is easy to prepare at home? Scallops with Lemon Butter is a fantastic choice! These sweet and tender scallops are seared to golden perfection and paired with a zesty butter sauce that elevates the dish to a whole new level.
Imagine enjoying perfectly cooked scallops that melt in your mouth, complemented by a rich, buttery sauce infused with fresh lemon. It’s a quick and delicious option for a special dinner or a delightful weeknight meal.
This Scallops with Lemon Butter recipe is not only mouthwatering but also incredibly simple. With just a handful of ingredients, you can impress your guests or treat yourself to a luxurious meal any night of the week.
Visual Appeal of Pan-Seared Scallops
The presentation of pan-seared scallops can instantly elevate the dining experience, transforming a simple meal into something extraordinary.
Scallops with Lemon Butter are not only delightful to taste but also stunning to behold.
When plated elegantly, these golden-brown morsels catch the eye and entice the palate, creating a visual feast on the table.
A white plate provides a crisp backdrop, allowing the golden scallops and vibrant garnishes to shine.
Fresh parsley sprinkled atop complements the dish, while a slice of lemon adds a pop of color and hints at the zesty flavors to come.
This attention to plating is sure to impress anyone seated at the table.
Flavor Profile of Scallops with Lemon Butter
The delicate sweetness of perfectly cooked scallops pairs beautifully with the bright acidity of lemon in a luscious butter sauce.
Each bite offers a satisfying contrast: the crispy exterior and the tender interior provide a delightful texture that enhances the overall dish.
The lemon butter sauce envelops the scallops, infusing them with a refreshing hint of citrus that balances the richness of the butter.
The addition of garlic further enhances the flavor, creating a harmonious blend that tantalizes the taste buds.
Preparation for Success
Achieving the perfect pan-seared scallops requires some attention to detail.
Start by ensuring that the scallops are thoroughly dried; this step is crucial for achieving a beautiful sear.
Selecting the right skillet is also important; a large, heavy-bottomed skillet distributes heat evenly and allows the scallops to cook perfectly.
Cooking in batches may be necessary to avoid overcrowding, which ensures each scallop gets the perfect golden crust.
Creating the Lemon Butter Sauce
The lemon butter sauce is the star of the dish, and making it is a simple process.
After searing the scallops, lowering the heat and adding butter creates a silky sauce that enriches the dish.
Garlic should be sautéed until fragrant, followed by the addition of lemon juice and zest, which infuses the sauce with brightness.
A quick stir brings the flavors together, resulting in a sauce that perfectly complements the scallops.
Garnishing and Serving Tips
Garnishing is an essential final touch that enhances both the appearance and flavor of the dish.
Chopped parsley sprinkled atop the scallops not only adds color but also a fresh herbaceous note that contrasts with the richness of the butter sauce.
A slice of lemon on the side serves as a reminder of the zesty flavors present in the dish.
Serving the scallops on a rustic wooden table adds a warm, inviting feel to the meal, making it perfect for gatherings or intimate dinners.
Pairing with a light salad or some crusty bread can round out the meal beautifully.
Nutrition and Serving Suggestions
Pan-seared scallops with lemon butter sauce are not just a treat for the senses; they also offer a nutritious option for dinner.
Each serving provides a good source of protein while keeping calories relatively low, making them suitable for various dietary preferences.
Consider serving these scallops with a side of sautéed vegetables or a light grain, allowing the dish to shine while providing a well-rounded meal.
With simple preparation and elegant presentation, scallops with lemon butter can easily become a regular feature in your culinary repertoire.
Delicious Scallops with Zesty Lemon Butter
These pan-seared scallops are perfectly seasoned and cooked, resulting in a crispy exterior and a tender interior. The lemon butter sauce adds a burst of citrus flavor that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the scallops.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large scallops, patted dry
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Scallops: Ensure the scallops are thoroughly dried with paper towels to achieve a nice sear.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the scallops in a single layer.
- Sear the Scallops: Cook the scallops for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Do not overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook in batches.
- Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute. Then add the lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine.
- Serve: Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the scallops, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with chopped parsley.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 280kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
