Buttery Garlic Seared Scallops
When it comes to seafood, few dishes can rival the elegant simplicity of Buttery Garlic Seared Scallops. This recipe transforms plump sea scallops into a gourmet dish that’s bursting with flavor and takes minimal time to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can impress your family and friends with this mouthwatering meal. Whether you serve them over a bed of creamy risotto or alongside a fresh salad, these scallops will surely be the star of your dinner table.
Reasons to Love Buttery Garlic Seared Scallops
Buttery Garlic Seared Scallops are not only delicious but also provide a wealth of benefits that make them irresistible. Here are a few reasons to love this dish:
- Quick to Prepare: With a cooking time of just 5-10 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal ready in no time.
- Healthy Option: Scallops are low in calories and high in protein, making them a nutritious choice for any meal.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic and butter elevates the natural sweetness of the scallops, creating a dish that’s rich and satisfying.
- Impressive Presentation: Scallops have a beautiful sear that looks stunning on the plate, perfect for special occasions.
What to Buy
To create your Buttery Garlic Seared Scallops, you’ll need to gather a few key ingredients. Here’s a detailed shopping list:
- 1 lb. Sea Scallops: Look for fresh, plump scallops, preferably dry-packed for the best flavor.
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil will enhance the flavor of the dish.
- 3 tbsp Land O Lakes Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt: This butter blend adds a rich, savory element to the scallops.
- 2 tsp Minced Garlic: Fresh garlic provides robust flavor and aroma.
- 1 Medium Lemon: You’ll need the juice of half a lemon and slices for garnish.
- 1 tbsp Chopped Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning the scallops to perfection.
Gear Up: What to Grab
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the following kitchen tools ready:
- Skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet is ideal for achieving a perfect sear on the scallops.
- Spatula: A thin spatula will help flip the scallops without breaking them.
- Measuring Spoons: For accurate measurement of ingredients like olive oil and garlic.
- Juicer: To extract the lemon juice easily.
Buttery Garlic Seared Scallops Cooking Guide
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your delicious Buttery Garlic Seared Scallops:
Step 1: Prepare the Scallops
Start by patting the sea scallops dry with paper towels. This step is essential for achieving a nice sear. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to get hot but not smoking.
Step 3: Add the Scallops
Carefully place the seasoned scallops in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes without moving them, allowing a golden crust to form.
Step 4: Flip and Add Garlic
Using a spatula, gently flip the scallops. Add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. As the butter melts, spoon it over the scallops to baste them for even more flavor.
Step 5: Finish with Lemon
Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the scallops while they cook for another 1-2 minutes. The scallops should be opaque and firm to the touch.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat. Plate the scallops and drizzle with any remaining butter from the skillet. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices for a fresh touch.
Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives
If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, this recipe is already a fantastic option! However, here are a few tweaks to keep it aligned with your dietary goals:
- Use Ghee: Substitute the butter with ghee for a lactose-free option that maintains the rich flavor.
- Serve with Zucchini Noodles: Instead of pasta, pair the scallops with sautéed zucchini noodles for a light and healthy base.
- Pair with Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb alternative to rice makes a great accompaniment to soak up the buttery sauce.
Easy-to-Miss Gotchas
While preparing Buttery Garlic Seared Scallops, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid:
- Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking too many scallops at once can lower the pan’s temperature, preventing a proper sear.
- Ensure They Are Dry: Moisture on the scallops will steam them instead of searing, so pat them dry thoroughly.
- Watch the Cooking Time: Scallops cook quickly; overcooking will result in a rubbery texture.
Prep Ahead & Store
If you want to get a head start on your meal, here’s how to prep and store your ingredients:
While it’s best to cook scallops fresh, you can prepare the garlic and chop the parsley ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Uncooked scallops can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days if kept in their original packaging or in a covered container with ice to keep them cold.
Helpful Q&A
Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure a proper sear.
What should I serve with Buttery Garlic Seared Scallops?
These scallops pair beautifully with a variety of sides, such as garlic mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a crisp green salad.
How do I know when scallops are cooked?
Scallops are done when they are opaque and firm to the touch. They should have a golden brown crust on the outside while remaining tender on the inside.
Can I substitute the butter in this recipe?
Yes, you can use any high-quality butter or a plant-based butter alternative if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly.
Time to Try It
Now that you have all the details, it’s time to bring the flavors of Buttery Garlic Seared Scallops into your kitchen. This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a delight to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, these scallops will impress everyone at your table. Enjoy the process, relish the flavors, and don’t forget to savor each bite!
Buttery Garlic Seared Scallops
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by patting the sea scallops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
- Carefully place the seasoned scallops in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for about 2-3 minutes without moving.
- Gently flip the scallops. Add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet, basting the scallops with the melted butter.
- Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the scallops while they cook for another 1-2 minutes. They should be opaque and firm.
- Remove from heat, plate the scallops, drizzle with remaining butter, and garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices.
Notes
- For a lactose-free version, substitute butter with ghee.
- Pair with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Always pat scallops dry to achieve a good sear.
