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Crispy Pan-Seared Scallops Recipe with Easy Lemon Butter Sauce

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A quick and elegant recipe featuring scallops with a golden crust paired with a bright, buttery lemon sauce. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound fresh sea scallops, patted dry
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • Juice of 1 fresh lemon
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons white wine or chicken broth (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper. Let rest at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  2. Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Heat until oil shimmers but does not smoke, about 2 minutes.
  3. Add scallops to the pan without overcrowding, leaving about 1-inch space between each. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on the first side without moving them until a golden crust forms.
  4. Using tongs, gently flip each scallop and cook for another 2 minutes until opaque and firm but still tender inside.
  5. Remove scallops and transfer to a warm plate. Tent loosely with foil to keep warm.
  6. Lower heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon butter to the pan. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  7. Pour in white wine or chicken broth, scraping up browned bits. Let reduce by half, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  8. Turn off heat and whisk in remaining 2 tablespoons butter and fresh lemon juice until smooth and glossy. Stir in chopped parsley if using.
  9. Spoon the lemon butter sauce over the scallops and serve immediately.

Notes

Use dry-packed scallops for best searing results. Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain a crispy crust. Pat scallops dry before cooking. Add lemon juice last to keep sauce bright. Avoid boiling butter to prevent separation. For dairy-free, substitute vegan butter and vegetable broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: scallops, pan-seared scallops, lemon butter sauce, quick seafood recipe, easy dinner, crispy scallops

Find it online: https://evabakery.com/crispy-pan-seared-scallops-recipe-with-easy-lemon-butter-sauce/