Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that feels fancy without all the fuss, you’ve come to the right place! These Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter are one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity: fresh sea scallops cooked to golden perfection and drizzled with a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s a meal that impresses without taking hours to prepare!

Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to shine. In just about 20 minutes, you can have a delightful dinner on the table that tastes like it came straight from a five-star restaurant!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Impressive Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and fresh herbs elevates the scallops to something truly special.
• Healthy Option: With lean protein and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering—it’s adaptable to any occasion!
• Minimal Cleanup: With just one pan needed, you’ll spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Fresh sea scallops are the star of the show, complemented by fragrant garlic and zesty lemon. Let’s dive into what you’ll need:

For the Scallops

• 1 1/4 pounds sea scallops (preferably fresh dry packed scallops)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh herbs (plus more for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for garnish)

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible! Here are some fun variations you might consider:

• Swap the herbs: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or chives for a unique twist.
• Add some spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick to your garlic butter sauce.
• Incorporate vegetables: Serve the scallops over sautéed spinach or asparagus for added color and nutrition.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of cream after adding the garlic for a richer sauce.

How to Make Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter

Step 1: Prepare the Scallops

Start by patting the scallops dry on both sides using a paper towel. This step is crucial because removing moisture helps achieve that beautiful golden crust when searing. Once dried, season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Sear the Scallops

Next, heat the olive oil in a heavy skillet over high heat until it’s just smoking. Carefully add the scallops in a single layer; they should sizzle as they hit the pan! Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. The high heat ensures that they caramelize beautifully, enhancing their natural sweetness.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Once your scallops are perfectly seared, remove them from the pan. In the same skillet, melt your butter over medium heat. The residual flavor from searing will infuse into your sauce! Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds—it should smell amazing already! Then stir in lemon juice and fresh herbs to brighten everything up.

Step 4: Combine Scallops with Sauce

Return those beautiful scallops back into the pan. Spoon that luscious garlic butter sauce all over them; this is where all that flavor marries together! Garnish with extra herbs and lemon wedges to make it look irresistible.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Enjoy these delicious seared scallops right away while they’re warm! They pair wonderfully with rice or a light salad, making for an elegant yet easy meal everyone will love.

Now you’re ready to impress your loved ones with this delightful dish! Enjoy every bite of your Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter!

Pro Tips for Making Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter

Getting the perfect sear on scallops can be a little tricky, but with these pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to restaurant-quality results right at home!

• Choose fresh, dry-packed scallops: Fresh, dry-packed scallops have a better flavor and texture compared to wet scallops. They sear beautifully without excess moisture.
• Make sure the pan is hot enough: Preheating your skillet until it’s just smoking allows for that golden-brown crust to form quickly. A hot pan ensures a nice sear without overcooking the scallops.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking too many scallops at once can lower the pan temperature, leading to steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary for that perfect caramelization.
• Pat them dry before seasoning: Moisture on the surface can prevent a good sear. Drying the scallops thoroughly helps achieve that lovely golden crust.
• Serve immediately after cooking: Scallops are best enjoyed fresh off the skillet while they’re still warm and tender. This keeps them from becoming rubbery as they cool.

How to Serve Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter

Serving seared scallops beautifully can elevate your dining experience, making it feel special even on a weeknight. Here are some delightful ways to present your dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or chives add a pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon brightens the dish and enhances the flavors.
• Microgreens: A sprinkle of microgreens adds an elegant touch and an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that complements the richness of scallops.
• Sautéed asparagus: Tender asparagus lightly sautéed in olive oil adds a vibrant crunch and pairs well with seafood.
• Quinoa salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette brings brightness and texture to your plate.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables offer a colorful and healthy accompaniment that balances out the meal beautifully.

Now you’re ready to impress your family or guests with these delectable seared scallops! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This seared scallops with garlic butter recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare the scallops and sauce ahead of time, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover scallops in an airtight container.
• Store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Keep the garlic butter sauce in a separate container to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• It’s best to freeze cooked scallops if you won’t eat them within a couple of days.
• Place scallops in a single layer on a baking sheet; freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• The garlic butter sauce can also be frozen in ice cube trays for easy portioning.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen scallops in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Gently reheat scallops in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
• Warm the garlic butter sauce separately and drizzle it over the scallops before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making seared scallops with garlic butter that might help you out!

Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. This will ensure they sear nicely and don’t steam.

How do I know when the seared scallops are done?

Seared scallops with garlic butter should be golden brown on the outside and opaque in the center. They typically take about 2-3 minutes per side, depending on their size.

What can I serve with seared scallops with garlic butter?

These scallops pair beautifully with a variety of sides like asparagus, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these seared scallops with garlic butter! This dish is not only quick and simple but also elegant enough for special occasions. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your creations or ask any questions. Happy cooking!