Are you looking for an elegant dish that impresses without requiring hours in the kitchen? Look no further than these pan-seared scallops with lemon butter sauce. This gluten-free recipe is perfect for a special dinner or a simple yet refined weeknight meal. The combination of buttery, tender scallops with a bright, zesty sauce makes for a delightful dining experience.
These scallops are not just a treat for the taste buds, but also a feast for the eyes. The golden crust from the searing process contrasts beautifully with the creamy, citrusy sauce, making it a show-stopping dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. You can serve them over a bed of fresh greens or alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal.
A Simple Yet Elegant Seafood Dish
These pan-seared scallops are succulent and juicy, enhanced by a lemon butter sauce that adds a refreshing, tangy brightness. The taste is a perfect balance of savory and slightly tart, making each bite a burst of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound sea scallops, patted dry
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the Scallops: Pat the scallops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
- Sear the Scallops: Add the scallops to the skillet, making sure they are not overcrowded. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine.
- Combine and Serve: Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the scallops. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 280kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
