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Perfect Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce

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A quick and easy recipe for perfectly caramelized pan-seared scallops served with a bright and buttery lemon sauce, ideal for an intimate dinner for two.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 large or 16 smaller dry-packed sea scallops (about 8 ounces / 225 grams)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (from half a lemon)
  • Lemon zest (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons dry white wine (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the scallops dry thoroughly with paper towels (about 2 minutes). Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat 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. Add scallops gently, spaced apart so they don’t steam. Cook without moving them for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is a deep golden brown. Flip carefully using tongs or a fish spatula.
  4. Sear the other side for about 1-2 minutes until scallops are opaque and slightly firm but still tender inside. Avoid overcooking.
  5. Transfer cooked scallops to a warm plate and loosely cover with foil to rest.
  6. Reduce heat to medium. In the same pan, add butter and garlic. Cook, stirring, until fragrant and slightly golden (about 1 minute).
  7. If using, pour in white wine and let it simmer until slightly reduced (1-2 minutes).
  8. Stir in fresh lemon juice and zest. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  9. Pour the lemon butter sauce over the scallops and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Notes

Pat scallops dry thoroughly to ensure a golden crust. Do not overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming. Use a hot pan and add butter after searing scallops to prevent burning. Let scallops rest briefly after cooking to lock in juices. Optionally add white wine for depth or substitute herbs for variation.

Nutrition

Keywords: pan-seared scallops, lemon butter sauce, seafood recipe, quick dinner, easy scallops, romantic dinner, scallops for two

Find it online: https://atomicbite.com/perfect-pan-seared-scallops-with-lemon-butter-sauce-recipe-for-two-easy-and-delicious/