Scallops are a delightful seafood dish that can transform any meal into something extraordinary, and this Lemon Butter Scallops recipe is no exception. With the delicate sweetness of the scallops complemented by the richness of the butter and the tangy zest of fresh lemon, this dish is both refreshing and luxurious. Whether you’re preparing it for a romantic dinner, a special occasion, or simply as a treat for yourself, these Lemon Butter Scallops are sure to impress. The combination of fresh ingredients like garlic, lemon, and parsley elevates the flavor, creating a dish that’s both simple and elegant.

This recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy seafood in a quick, easy, and flavorful way. The lemon butter sauce enhances the scallops without overwhelming their natural flavor, and the entire dish can be prepared in under 20 minutes. Whether you’re new to cooking seafood or an experienced chef, this Lemon Butter Scallops recipe will become a favorite go-to meal for any seafood lover.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Butter Scallops are the epitome of a quick yet sophisticated seafood dish. This recipe combines the sweet, delicate taste of sea scallops with a bright, zesty lemon butter sauce. It’s a wonderfully simple way to prepare scallops, and the minimal ingredients used let the flavors of the seafood really shine. The garlic, fresh parsley, and lemon bring just the right amount of depth to the dish, while the butter keeps everything rich and velvety. Whether you’re looking for a light dinner, a special occasion meal, or a simple seafood dish that can be made in under 20 minutes, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. It’s also a great choice for pescatarians or anyone wanting a healthy, low-carb dinner.

Ingredients

For the Scallops:

Unsalted butter
Sea scallops
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

Unsalted butter
Garlic, minced
Freshly squeezed lemon juice
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Chopped fresh parsley leaves

Variations

While this Lemon Butter Scallops recipe is already packed with flavor, here are a few variations you can try:

Spicy Lemon Butter Scallops

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon butter sauce for a bit of heat.

Garlic Herb Butter

Use a mixture of fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano in place of parsley to change up the flavor profile.

Lemon and Parmesan Scallops

For a richer flavor, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the scallops just before serving.

Lemon Butter Shrimp

Swap out the scallops for shrimp for a different twist on the same delicious sauce.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This ensures a nice sear. Season both sides of the scallops with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Scallops

In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is hot, add the scallops to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Add the lemon juice, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine.

Step 4: Combine

Return the cooked scallops to the skillet, tossing them gently in the lemon butter sauce. Let the scallops warm through for another 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the scallops and sauce. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Dry the scallops thoroughly before cooking to ensure they sear properly and don’t steam.
Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking the scallops. Cook in batches if necessary to give them space to sear properly.
Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor; bottled lemon juice may not provide the same tangy freshness.
Keep the heat at medium-high when searing the scallops. If the heat is too low, the scallops will release moisture and will not sear properly.
Serve immediately after preparing the dish to ensure the scallops stay tender and juicy.

How to Serve

Lemon Butter Scallops are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of side dishes. Try pairing them with:

Steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans for a light, healthy meal.
Garlic butter pasta or a simple linguine to complement the rich sauce.
Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option that will soak up the delicious sauce.
A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the scallops.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat in a skillet with a small amount of butter or in the microwave to avoid overcooking the delicate scallops.

Freezing

While scallops can technically be frozen, it’s best to enjoy them fresh. Freezing may alter the texture of the scallops, making them slightly rubbery upon reheating. If you do freeze leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag, and use within 1-2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, place the scallops in a skillet over low heat with a splash of lemon juice or a small amount of butter to maintain moisture.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen scallops. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

2. How do I know when the scallops are cooked?

Scallops should be golden brown on the outside and opaque on the inside. They should have a firm texture when cooked properly.

3. Can I make this recipe without butter?

While butter is essential for the rich flavor, you can substitute it with olive oil for a lighter version.

4. How do I prevent the scallops from becoming rubbery?

Be sure not to overcook the scallops. Cook them for only 2-3 minutes per side, depending on their size.

5. Can I add other herbs to the sauce?

Yes, you can add thyme, rosemary, or even basil for a different flavor profile.

6. What is the best type of scallops to use for this recipe?

Fresh, wild-caught sea scallops are the best option for this recipe. Avoid using smaller bay scallops, as they will cook too quickly.

7. How do I know if the scallops are fresh?

Fresh scallops should have a sweet, ocean-like smell and be firm to the touch. They should be slightly translucent and not overly slimy.

8. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best to cook the scallops fresh, as they can become tough when reheated. However, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge.

9. Can I use a different type of seafood?

Yes, shrimp or fish fillets can be used as alternatives to scallops in this recipe.

10. How do I avoid overcooking the scallops?

Keep the heat high enough for a quick sear, and don’t cook the scallops longer than 3 minutes on each side.

Conclusion

This Lemon Butter Scallops recipe is an easy, elegant dish that is perfect for any seafood lover. The combination of sweet scallops, rich butter, and bright lemon is irresistible and makes for a sophisticated yet simple meal. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, these scallops are sure to impress. With a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you’ll have a meal that’s both delicious and quick. Enjoy this flavorful dish with your favorite sides for a truly satisfying experience.