Lemon Butter Scallops (Print Version)

Seared scallops with a zesty lemon butter sauce, ideal for a quick and bright main dish.

# What You'll Need:

→ Seafood

01 - 1 pound large sea scallops, patted dry

→ Sauce

02 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
03 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 - Zest of 1 lemon
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
07 - 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
08 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
09 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Garnish

10 - Lemon wedges for serving

# How To Make It:

01 - Pat the scallops thoroughly dry with paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
02 - Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot and shimmering, add the scallops in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
03 - Sear scallops undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until a golden crust forms. Flip and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until just opaque. Transfer scallops to a plate and cover loosely to keep warm.
04 - Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter to the skillet. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
05 - Pour in the wine or broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the pan, until slightly reduced.
06 - Return scallops and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Spoon the lemon butter sauce over the scallops and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
07 - Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Quick and easy to prepare, ready in just 20 minutes.
  • Combines the rich flavor of butter with fresh lemon for a bright sauce.
  • Perfectly seared scallops that are tender and juicy.
  • Gluten-free and pescatarian-friendly, fitting various dietary needs.
  • Pairs beautifully with simple sides like asparagus or pasta.
02 -
  • Use a microplane or zester to get the finest lemon zest for maximum aroma.
  • Heat the pan well before adding scallops to achieve a perfect sear.
  • Cook scallops in batches if your pan is small to avoid steaming instead of searing.
  • Save the liquid released by the scallops when resting and incorporate it back into the sauce for extra flavor.
  • Serve immediately to enjoy the scallops at their tender best.
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