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Crispy Pan-Seared Scallops Recipe with Easy Lemon Butter Sauce

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A quick and easy recipe for perfectly crispy pan-seared scallops served with a bright and silky lemon butter sauce. Ideal for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 large fresh sea scallops (about 1 lb / 450 g), dry-packed if possible
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4 tablespoons (60 g) unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Rinse scallops under cold water quickly, then pat them completely dry with paper towels. Remove the small side muscle if still attached. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Place a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Heat until shimmering but not smoking, about 2 minutes.
  3. Carefully place scallops in the pan spaced apart. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and releases easily from the pan.
  4. Flip scallops gently with tongs and cook the other side for about 1-2 minutes until firm but springy.
  5. Remove scallops to a warm plate and reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic to the pan. Stir as butter melts and garlic becomes fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  6. Add fresh lemon juice and stir to combine. Cook for another 30 seconds, then remove from heat.
  7. Spoon the lemon butter sauce over the scallops, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.

Notes

Pat scallops completely dry before cooking to ensure a crispy crust. Do not overcrowd the pan and flip scallops only once. Add lemon juice off the heat to keep the sauce fresh. Use high heat but avoid burning the butter. For dairy-free, substitute butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: scallops, pan-seared scallops, lemon butter sauce, quick seafood recipe, easy dinner, crispy scallops

Find it online: https://yumnode.com/crispy-pan-seared-scallops-recipe-with-easy-lemon-butter-sauce/