Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter
Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter showcases large sea scallops cooked to develop a golden crust while keeping a tender interior, enhanced by a quick pan sauce made from butter, garlic, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. This method emphasizes balanced seasoning and the proper searing technique to avoid steaming. The dish is simple yet flavorful, suited for an elegant starter or main course served immediately for best texture.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 pounds sea scallops preferably fresh dry packed scallops
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic minced
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoon fresh herbs plus more for garnish, chopped
- lemon for garnish, wedges
Instructions
- Pat the scallops dry on both sides with a paper towel. Season the scallops on both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat the oil in a heavy skillet over high heat until it's just smoking. Add the scallops in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove the scallops from the pan. Melt the butter in the pan.
- Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in the lemon juice and herbs.
- Return the scallops to the pan. Spoon the sauce over the top. Garnish with herbs and lemon wedges, then serve immediately.
Notes
- Cook scallops in a single layer without crowding to get a proper sear and avoid steaming.
- Serve scallops immediately after cooking to enjoy their tender texture.
- If reheating leftovers, warm scallops gently over low heat to prevent overcooking and rubbery texture.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition Facts
Serving: 4 Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 206
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 206kcal | 10% |
| Carbohydrates | 5g | 2% |
| Protein | 17g | 34% |
| Fat | 13g | 20% |
| Saturated Fat | 6g | 30% |
| Cholesterol | 57mg | 19% |
| Sodium | 631mg | 26% |
| Potassium | 291mg | 6% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 262IU | 5% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 11mg | 1% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.