Crispy Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops

Scallops are often hailed as one of the ocean's most exquisite delicacies, treasured for their sweet, tender meat and their versatility in a variety of culinary applications. These bivalve mollusks are not only a delight to the palate but also elevate any dish, making them a favored choice for both home cooks and professional chefs alike. Whether served simply seared, nestled in a creamy pasta, or paired with vibrant vegetables, scallops can transform a meal into a gourmet experience.

Discover the exquisite taste of Crispy Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops with this easy recipe perfect for dinner. Scallops are a seafood delicacy known for their sweet, tender meat and golden, crispy exterior. This dish combines fresh, high-quality ingredients like lemon, garlic, and butter to create a refreshing yet indulgent meal. Enjoy the rich flavors and nutritional benefits of scallops while impressing your guests or elevating your weekday meals with this gourmet treat.

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Ingredients

1 pound sea scallops, fresh or thawed

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

Zest and juice of 1 large lemon

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

Prep the Scallops: Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove moisture. This will help achieve that perfect crispy sear. Season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat until shimmering. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the scallops to get a good sear.

Sear the Scallops: Place the scallops in the skillet, ensuring they are not touching each other. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on one side until golden brown. Do not overcrowd the pan; sear in batches if necessary.

Flip and Add Flavor: Gently flip the scallops using tongs. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, and thyme to the pan. Cook for another 1-2 minutes while basting the scallops with the melted butter and garlic mixture. The scallops should feel firm to the touch and have a golden color.

Finish with Lemon Juice: Once cooked through, remove the skillet from heat and drizzle the scallops with fresh lemon juice. Allow them to soak up the flavors for a minute.

Serve: Plate the scallops, drizzle the garlic butter from the pan over them, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 4 servings