The Best Pan Seared Scallops with Garlic and Lemon Recipe

User Reviews

4.4

50 reviews
Good
  • Prep Time

    5 mins

  • Cook Time

    10 mins

  • Total Time

    15 mins

  • Servings

    4 people

  • Calories

    190 kcal

  • Course

    Main Course

  • Cuisine

    International

The Best Pan Seared Scallops with Garlic and Lemon Recipe

This pan-seared scallops recipe delivers scallops with a golden crust seared in butter, enhanced by garlic and brightened with lemon and white wine. The method ensures scallops remain springy and tender inside while gaining a flavorful sear outside, making them ideal for a simple yet refined seafood dish.

Description

The Best Pan Seared Scallops with Garlic and Lemon features scallops carefully dried and seasoned before being seared in hot butter, which forms a golden crust while locking in their moisture. Garlic is added midway and browned briefly to infuse aroma without burning. Lemon wedges and white wine are introduced near the end to impart citrus brightness and acidity to complement the richness of the butter and scallops.

The scallops are cooked in a hot pan to ensure even searing. Cooking stops when the scallops remain springy to the touch and opaque inside, balancing texture and flavor. The layered flavor profile results from browned butter, fragrant garlic, tangy lemon, and a splash of wine sauce.

This dish is best served immediately to preserve the tender texture and fresh flavors. It pairs well as a starter or light main with simple sides like salad or rice. The lemon and garlic sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 3 tbsp butter grass-fed
  • 1 lb scallops defrosted, patted dry
  • 1 tsp salt celtic sea salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper freshly cracked
  • 2 tbsp garlic diced
  • ½ lemon sliced into half-wedges
  • ½ cup white wine

Instructions

  1. Heat butter in pan on high heat until melted and lightly foaming. 
  2. Pat scallops dry with paper towel and generously season scallops with salt and pepper. 
  3. Add scallops into pan, with space in between so they can crisp. 
  4. After about 4 minutes on one side, flip scallops. They should have a golden crust on the side that was face-down. (If not, increase heat, and let sear a bit more.) 
  5. Add garlic and stir quickly, let lightly brown and become fragrant, do not let burn (about 2-3 minutes). 
  6. Add lemon slices, wine, and stir. 
  7. When scallops are still springy to the touch, but bright white and opaque and browned on both sides, serve and top with sauce. 

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Calories 190kcal (10%) Carbohydrates 7g (2%) Protein 14g (28%) Saturated Fat 5g (25%) Cholesterol 50mg (17%) Sodium 1104mg (46%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4people

Amount Per Serving

Calories 190 kcal

% Daily Value*

Calories 190kcal 10%
Carbohydrates 7g 2%
Protein 14g 28%
Saturated Fat 5g 25%
Cholesterol 50mg 17%
Sodium 1104mg 46%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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