### **Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops**
#### **Introduction**
Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops are a restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare at home. These tender, sweet scallops are seared to perfection and bathed in a flavorful sauce of garlic, lemon, and butter. The result is an elegant, yet simple seafood dish that’s perfect for special occasions, a romantic dinner, or whenever you want to treat yourself to a gourmet meal.
#### **Origin and Cultural Significance**
Scallops are a delicacy enjoyed around the world, particularly in coastal regions where fresh seafood is abundant. Their mildly sweet flavor and tender texture make them versatile for various preparations, from raw in sashimi to grilled or pan-seared. Seared scallops, especially when paired with a lemon butter sauce, are a staple in French cuisine, embodying the balance of richness and acidity that defines many classic dishes. Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops have since become a favorite in fine dining establishments and home kitchens alike, representing simplicity, elegance, and the luxury of fresh seafood.
#### **Ingredients (Quantity)**
– 1 lb large sea scallops (about 12-15 scallops)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
#### **Optional Additions**
– 1 tablespoon white wine for extra depth in the sauce
– Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
– Fresh thyme or rosemary for a fragrant herbaceous note
– 1 tablespoon capers for added brininess
#### **Tips for Success**
– **Dry scallops thoroughly**: Pat the scallops dry with paper towels before cooking to ensure a perfect sear. Excess moisture can cause steaming rather than searing.
– **Use high heat**: A hot skillet is crucial for achieving that golden-brown crust without overcooking the scallops inside.
– **Don’t overcrowd the pan**: Cook the scallops in batches if necessary. Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the pan and prevent proper searing.
– **Avoid overcooking**: Scallops cook quickly and can become tough if overdone. Cook for just 1-2 minutes per side until they are opaque and slightly firm.
#### **Instructions**
1. **Prepare the scallops**: Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. **Heat the pan**: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3. **Sear the scallops**: Place the scallops in the pan in a single layer, leaving space between them. Sear for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until a golden crust forms. Remove the scallops from the pan and set aside.
4. **Make the sauce**: Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same pan. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and optional white wine, and simmer for 1 minute.
5. **Return the scallops**: Add the scallops back into the pan and spoon the sauce over them. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to warm through.
6. **Garnish and serve**: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
#### **Description**
These Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops are beautifully golden on the outside, with a tender, almost melt-in-your-mouth texture inside. The garlic and lemon provide brightness and depth, cutting through the richness of the butter, while the fresh parsley adds a hint of earthiness. Each bite offers a harmonious balance of savory, citrusy, and slightly sweet flavors, making this dish both indulgent and refreshing.
#### **Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 3-4 scallops)**
– Calories: 220
– Protein: 17g
– Carbohydrates: 3g
– Fat: 16g
– Fiber: 0g
– Sugar: 0g
– Sodium: 450mg
(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on portion size and exact ingredients used.)
#### **Conclusion**
Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops are a quick yet sophisticated meal that showcases the delicate sweetness of fresh scallops, enhanced by a classic combination of garlic, butter, and lemon. The dish is light yet satisfying, and its simplicity allows the natural flavors of the scallops to shine.
#### **Recommendation**
Serve these seared scallops alongside a light salad, steamed vegetables, or a bed of risotto or pasta to soak up the luscious sauce. For an added touch of luxury, pair the dish with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
#### **Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
While scallops are naturally low in fat and high in protein, the butter sauce can add richness. To keep this dish health-conscious without sacrificing flavor, you can reduce the amount of butter or swap half of it with olive oil for a lighter sauce. Another way to make this dish even more wholesome is by serving it with a side of whole grains or incorporating more vegetables like roasted asparagus or spinach. The beauty of this recipe is that you can indulge in its luxurious flavors while keeping the nutritional profile in check.