Seared Scallops with Butter Lemon Sauce

Hey there, food lovers! 🍽️ Ready to treat yourself to a gourmet experience without ever leaving your kitchen? With this super simple recipe, you can create restaurant-quality seared scallops right at home! Imagine perfectly golden-brown sea scallops, each piece boasting a mouthwatering, caramelized crust, all drizzled with a rich brown butter lemon sauce that's bursting with flavor. 🍋

Not only does this dish look absolutely stunning, but it's also incredibly quick to prepare—ready in just 15 minutes! Whether you're planning a special dinner or just want to enjoy a little luxury on a weeknight, this recipe has got you covered. So, grab your apron, fire up the stove, and let's dive into this culinary adventure together. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite! 😋

Why You'll Love These Pan Seared Scallops

There's something magical about perfectly seared scallops - that golden-brown crust giving way to a tender, sweet interior is the hallmark of fine dining. But you don't need to visit an expensive restaurant to enjoy this luxurious seafood dish. With just a few simple techniques and quality ingredients, you can create stunning seared sea scallops in your own kitchen.

This recipe combines plump, sweet scallops with a sophisticated brown butter sauce that's brightened with fresh lemon and capers. Whether you're planning a romantic dinner, entertaining guests, or simply treating yourself to something special, these pan seared scallops are guaranteed to impress.

Jump to:

• Ingredients
• Equipment
• Instructions
• Recipe Variations
• Storage and Reheating
• Top Tip
• FAQ
• Dive into Deliciousness: Gourmet Seared Scallops at Home
• Related
• Pairing
• Seared Scallops with Butter Lemon Sauce Recipe

Ingredients

For the Scallops:

• 1 pound large sea scallops (about 12-15 scallops)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or clarified butter
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for finishing)

For the Brown Butter Lemon Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons capers, drained
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Equipment

• Large stainless steel or cast-iron skillet
• Paper towels
• Tongs
• Instant-read thermometer (optional)

Instructions

1-Preparing the Scallops

1. Pat the scallops completely dry with paper towels. This crucial step removes excess moisture and ensures a perfect golden crust.
2. Inspect each scallop and remove the small side muscle (sometimes called the "foot") if still attached.
3. Season both sides generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
4. Let the scallops sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking.

2-Searing the Scallops

1. Heat a large stainless steel or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot (about 2 minutes).
2. Add vegetable oil or clarified butter and heat until shimmering but not smoking.
3. Carefully place the scallops in the pan, leaving space between each one. Don't overcrowd the pan - work in batches if necessary.
4. Sear without moving for 2-3 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms on the bottom.
5. Flip each scallop and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the second side is golden brown and the center is just opaque (130-135°F internal temperature).
6. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan in the last minute of cooking, spooning it over the scallops as it melts.
7. Transfer the seared scallops to a warm plate and tent loosely with foil.

3-Making the Brown Butter Lemon Sauce

1. In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add 4 tablespoons butter.
2. Cook the butter, swirling occasionally, until it turns golden brown and smells nutty (2-3 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Stir in lemon juice, capers, and half the parsley.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4-Plating and Serving

• Serve immediately while hot.
• Arrange the seared scallops on warm plates.
• Spoon the brown butter sauce over and around the scallops.
• Garnish with remaining parsley.

Pro Tips for Perfect Seared Scallops

• Choose "dry" scallops instead of "wet" scallops. Dry scallops haven't been treated with preservatives and will sear much better.
• Make sure your pan is properly preheated before adding the scallops.
• Don't move the scallops while they're searing - this ensures a proper crust forms.
• Fresh scallops should have a sweet, clean ocean smell. Avoid any that smell fishy.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Recipe Variations

• Citrus Twist: Replace lemon juice with orange or lime juice for a different flavor profile
• Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme or tarragon to the butter while searing
• Asian-Inspired: Skip the brown butter sauce and finish with soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil
• Mediterranean Style: Add sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil to the sauce
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the brown butter sauce

Storage and Reheating

While seared scallops are best enjoyed immediately, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat:

• Gently warm in a skillet over low heat
• Heat just until warmed through to avoid overcooking
• Add a splash of water or white wine to maintain moisture

FAQ

Dive into Deliciousness: Gourmet Seared Scallops at Home

Hey there, food lovers! 🍽️ Perfecting the technique of seared scallops brings a touch of fine dining straight to your kitchen. With the right approach and high-quality ingredients, you can create restaurant-level scallops that are both impressive and delicious. Picture beautifully seared scallops topped with a luscious brown butter lemon sauce—a true delight for the senses! 🍋

Try this recipe and treat your taste buds to something extraordinary. We'd love to see your culinary masterpieces, so be sure to share your results in the comments below. And while you're at it, explore our Baked Cod with Garlic and Lemon for more fantastic seafood inspiration. Plus, don't miss our Perfect Grilled Salmon Recipe for another delicious fish dish. Happy cooking and enjoy every bite! 😋

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Pairing

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