Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter.
Ingredients:
1 lb large sea scallops (peeled and cleaned)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the scallops
Pat dry the scallops with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This is key for getting a good sear.
Season the scallops generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Sear the scallops
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the scallops to the pan in a single layer. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan—sear in batches if necessary.
Cook the scallops for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside and just cooked through on the inside. Don’t move the scallops while they cook to ensure a good sear.
Step 3: Make the garlic butter sauce
Once all the scallops are seared, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
In the same pan, add the butter and let it melt over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Finish and serve
Return the scallops to the skillet and spoon some of the garlic butter sauce over them to coat.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
Serve immediately, either on their own or with your favorite side dish.
Step 5: Enjoy!
These seared scallops are perfectly golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and drenched in a rich garlic butter sauce with a fresh lemon kick.