WOULD YOU EAT THESE CLASSIC GARLIC BUTTER SEARED SCALLOPS

How to Make Classic Garlic Butter Seared Scallops

Step 1: Prepare the Scallops

1. Pat Dry: Begin by patting the scallops dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because removing excess moisture will help achieve that perfect golden-brown sear. Wet scallops can steam instead of sear, which results in a less desirable texture.
2. Season: Lightly season both sides of the scallops with salt and pepper. Be generous with the seasoning because the scallops need flavor to balance their delicate sweetness.

Step 2: Sear the Scallops

1. Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and let it heat up until shimmering.
2. Add the Scallops: Carefully place the seasoned scallops in the pan, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and prevent a proper sear. Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side, depending on their size, until they develop a golden-brown crust. Flip them gently with tongs to avoid tearing.
3. Check for Doneness: Scallops should be opaque and slightly firm to the touch. Don’t overcook them, or they’ll become tough and rubbery. The ideal scallop is tender on the inside, with a crisp, caramelized exterior.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. Prepare the Sauce: While the scallops are searing, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant but not burnt. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat if you like.
2. Finish the Sauce: Once the garlic is fragrant, stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest for a fresh burst of flavor. Let the sauce simmer for a few seconds before removing it from the heat.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Toss the Scallops in Sauce: Once the scallops are seared, reduce the heat to low and return the scallops to the pan. Pour the garlic butter sauce over the scallops and let them sit for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld and the scallops to soak up the sauce.
2. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the scallops to a plate and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. You can serve them as is, or over pasta, rice, or alongside a salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Seared Scallops

• Freshness is Key: Fresh scallops are the best choice for this recipe. If you’re using frozen scallops, ensure that they are properly thawed and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
• High Heat is Crucial: Ensure your pan is hot enough to sear the scallops. A high temperature is essential for creating that golden-brown crust. However, don’t overdo it — medium-high heat works best for an even sear without burning the garlic.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking scallops in batches if necessary ensures that each one gets the attention it deserves, resulting in a perfect sear.
• Use Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of seasoning in the dish. You can always add salt to taste at the end.
• Lemon: The fresh citrus from lemon juice and lemon zest adds a light, fresh contrast to the rich butter, enhancing the overall dish.

Why You Should Try Garlic Butter Seared Scallops

Garlic Butter Seared Scallops are the epitome of seafood indulgence. The delicate, sweet flavor of the scallops paired with the rich, savory garlic butter sauce creates a mouthwatering combination that is nothing short of irresistible. This dish offers a satisfying balance of flavors, from the tender seafood to the rich, buttery finish, with just a hint of brightness from the lemon.

Scallops are an elegant and versatile protein, perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re preparing an upscale dinner party, a romantic meal, or simply looking to impress with a quick yet sophisticated dish, these garlic butter scallops fit the bill. They’re easy enough to make on a weeknight but impressive enough for a special event.

The best part? You can enjoy a gourmet meal at home without having to leave the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and a few minutes of your time, you can indulge in this luxurious seafood dish that’s sure to wow everyone at the table.

So, would you eat these Classic Garlic Butter Seared Scallops? We certainly think you should! They are a surefire way to elevate your seafood game and bring restaurant-quality dining to your home.