Delicious Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops easy Recipe

French

This delicious lemon garlic butter scallops promise an explosion of refined, gourmet flavors, an easy recipe and yet very luxurious.

This delightful dish offering the delicate tenderness of the scallops seared to a golden, crispy finish, and drizzled with a tangy lemon garlic and butter sauce.

A simple, elegant recipe that offers an irresistible taste experience, ideal for impressing your guests at Thanksgiving, Christmas dinner, or for a star-studded culinary escapade at home.

Lemon Butter Scallops Recipe

Whenever I want to indulge or surprise my family, this pan seared scallops presented with a lemon butter sauce are my go-to dish.

Their delicate tenderness and subtle flavor pair beautifully with the rich sweetness of butter and the zesty brightness of lemon.

The best part ? This recipe is quick, simple, and undeniably gourmet.

Pair these perfectly pan-seared scallops with creamy Parmesan risotto or a medley of oven-roasted vegetables for a truly delightful meal.

Ingredients for the pan-seared scallops

These recipe is for 4 people. I bought the scallops in a 150g pack that contains 8 fairly large scallops.

– For cooking the scallops :

• 300g scallops
• 1 tbsp. unsalted butter
• Salt
• Ground pepper

– For the lemon butter sauce and finishing :

• 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
• 1 crushed garlic clove
• Juice of freshly squeezed large lemon (+ or – according to taste)
• Salt
• Ground pepper
• Chopped fresh parsley or fresh thyme.
• Lemon zest (optional)

How to choose your ingredients for better results ?

Scallops: Opt for large, dry-packed sea scallops to achieve a beautiful sear. Wet-packed scallops tend to release excess water, making it harder to form that golden crust. If fresh scallops aren’t available, frozen ones are a great alternative—just ensure they’re properly thawed.

Butter: It lends a silky, luxurious texture that perfectly complements the scallops’ natural sweetness. For a dairy-free alternative, ghee works wonderfully.

Garlic: A classic partner to butter, adding depth and aroma. Fresh minced garlic is ideal, but pre-minced garlic from a jar works if you’re in a rush.

Lemon juice: Brings brightness and balance with its tangy acidity. Freshly squeezed is best, though bottled lemon juice can be a handy backup.

Parsley: A finishing touch of vibrant color and a burst of freshness. No parsley? Swap it with fresh cilantro, thymr or chives for an interesting twist.

Step-by-step: my foolproof method for perfect scallops

– Prepare the scallops :

1. Rinse the scallops thoroughly in cold water, then pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Arrange the scallops flat on a plate and season with salt and pepper on both sides.

-Sear the scallops

3. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a hot pan over medium heat.
4. Sear the scallops for a maximum of 2 minutes on each side. They should be golden on the outside and still soft on the inside.
5. Remove the scallops from the pan and keep them warm while preparing the sauce.

-Prepare the lemon butter sauce

6. In the same pan, add the remaining butter and melt.
7. Add the crushed garlic and let it brown for a minute, stirring without burning it, to flavor the butter.
8. Pour the lemon juice into the pan. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.

-Plate and serve

9. Arrange the scallops on a plate and spoon the lemon butter sauce over them.
10. Add some chopped fresh parsley if desired and sprinkle with a little lemon zest for an elegant finish.
11. Serve immediately to enjoy this refined dish

My Tips for Perfectly Tender Scallops

Cook in a hot pan: A properly heated pan ensures quick cooking and gives the scallops a lovely caramelized crust.

Pat them dry: Before cooking, make sure to thoroughly dry the scallops. This helps them sear beautifully and prevents excess water from being released in the pan.

Avoid overcooking: Two minutes on each side is the secret to keeping scallops tender. Any longer, and they risk turning rubbery.

Choose quality butter: Good butter makes all the difference. Use a high-quality unsalted butter to enhance the delicate flavor of the scallops.

Serving ideas : for a Refined and Well-Balanced Meal

To elevate these scallops into an elegant and complete dining experience, pair them with sides that enhance their delicate flavors without overpowering them:

• Homemade Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sweetness of the mash beautifully balances the tangy richness of the lemon butter sauce.
• Parmesan Risotto: Its velvety, subtly cheesy profile is a perfect match for the tender scallops, creating a harmonious texture and taste.
• Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, carrots, or fennel roasted with a drizzle of olive oil add a refreshing crunch and vibrant flavor.
• Roasted butternut Squash soup recipe: Serve as a warm, delicate starter to gently set the tone for the meal.
• Green Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: A crisp, refreshing salad provides a light prelude to the indulgence of the scallops.

These pairings will turn your scallop dish into a gourmet experience that’s both sophisticated and satisfying.