Fresh Lemon Butter Scallops Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Seafood enthusiasts adore these delicate lemon butter scallops that bring ocean-fresh flavors to your dinner table.

Succulent scallops seared to golden perfection create a restaurant-quality meal in mere minutes.

The zesty citrus and rich butter combine in a simple yet elegant sauce that elevates every bite.

Fresh scallops dance with bright lemon notes, creating a harmonious blend of delicate and bold flavors.

Tender and quick to prepare, this dish impresses even the most discerning palates.

Professional chefs and home cooks alike cherish this straightforward recipe for its incredible taste and simplicity.

You’ll be amazed how such few ingredients can produce such a spectacular meal.

Why Lemon Butter Scallops Stand Out

• Create gourmet seafood restaurant-style dishes right in your kitchen without complex techniques or expensive equipment.
• Prepare an elegant meal in mere minutes with straightforward steps that guarantee impressive results every single time.
• Wow dinner guests or romantic partners with a sophisticated dish that looks challenging but requires minimal culinary skills.
• Transform ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dinner that works perfectly for casual family meals or special occasions without complicated preparation.

Ingredients for Lemon Butter Scallops

• Scallops: Delicate seafood with a sweet, tender texture that serves as the star of this recipe.

• Kosher Salt, Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavor of the scallops.
• Garlic, Fresh Parsley: Aromatic ingredients that add depth and freshness to the dish.

• Butter, Lemon Juice: Creates a rich, tangy sauce that complements the delicate scallops and adds a bright, citrusy flavor to the dish.

Lemon Butter Scallops in Simple Steps

Step 1: Prepare Scallops

Remove the tough side muscle from each scallop.

Rinse the scallops under cold water, then thoroughly dry them with paper towels.

Completely removing moisture ensures a perfect golden sear when cooking.

Step 2: Season and Sear Scallops

Season the scallops with salt and pepper.

Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and melt butter.

When the butter starts to foam and turn golden, carefully place scallops in the pan.

Ensure they don’t touch each other.

Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, looking for a deep golden color.

The center should be opaque but slightly translucent.

Step 3: Create Lemon Butter Sauce

After removing scallops, add remaining butter to the same pan.

• Minced garlic
• Fresh lemon juice
• Salt
• Pepper

Stir and cook garlic until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Mix all ingredients until the sauce comes together smoothly.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Transfer scallops to a serving plate.

Pour the warm lemon butter sauce over the scallops.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Serve immediately while the scallops are hot and sauce is warm.

Expert Tips for Lemon Butter Scallops

• Ensure scallops are completely dry before cooking to achieve a perfect golden-brown sear without steaming.
• Take off the small side muscle on each scallop to prevent chewy texture and ensure tender, smooth bites.
• Sear scallops for only 1-2 minutes per side to maintain a translucent center and avoid overcooking, which can make them rubbery.
• Use medium-high heat and wait for butter to foam and turn slightly golden before adding scallops for optimal caramelization.
• Add minced garlic carefully and cook briefly to release flavor without burning, creating a delicate and aromatic lemon butter sauce.

Storage for Lemon Butter Scallops

• Store leftover scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cover the scallops with the remaining lemon butter sauce to keep them moist and prevent drying out.
• Warm scallops carefully in a skillet over low heat to prevent overcooking. Add a small pat of butter to help maintain moisture and prevent the seafood from becoming tough or rubbery.
• If using a microwave, heat scallops in short 15-20 second intervals, checking frequently to avoid rubbery texture. Drizzle a little extra lemon butter sauce before reheating to help retain moisture.
• Do not freeze cooked scallops, as they will lose their delicate texture and become watery when thawed, compromising the original quality and taste of the dish.

What Pairs Well with Lemon Scallops

• Elevate Wine Pairing: Select a crisp, unoaked Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the delicate scallop flavor and cut through the rich butter sauce.
• Boost Herbal Accompaniment: Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to mirror the citrusy notes and provide a peppery contrast to the tender scallops.
• Create Starch Balance: Serve alongside garlic-roasted fingerling potatoes or creamy risotto to soak up the luxurious lemon butter sauce and add textural depth.
• Match Bread Accent: Offer crusty sourdough or French baguette slices to help diners mop up every last drop of the aromatic sauce, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Flavor Variations for Lemon Butter Scallops

• Dairy-Free Delight: Replace butter with olive oil or coconut oil for a dairy-free version. Use plant-based butter alternatives to maintain the rich, creamy texture while keeping the recipe allergen-friendly.
• Herb-Infused Version: Swap parsley with fresh dill or chives for a different herbal note. Add thyme or tarragon to the butter sauce to create a more complex flavor profile that complements the delicate scallops.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip any additional thickening agents and focus on pure, clean ingredients. Use ghee instead of butter for a higher fat, lower carb alternative that keeps the recipe keto-friendly and packed with flavor.
• Spicy Seafood Spin: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne into the butter sauce. Sprinkle some smoked paprika over the scallops before searing to add a subtle heat and smoky undertone that elevates the dish.

FAQs

• Why do I need to pat the scallops completely dry?

Removing excess moisture ensures a perfect golden-brown sear. Wet scallops will steam instead of caramelizing, preventing that delicious crispy exterior you want.

• How do I know when scallops are perfectly cooked?

Look for a deep golden color on the outside and an opaque center that’s still slightly translucent. This usually takes 1-2 minutes per side. Overcooked scallops become rubbery and tough, so watch them carefully.

• Can I use table salt instead of kosher salt?

Kosher salt is recommended because it has larger crystals that stick better to the scallops and provide more even seasoning. If using table salt, use less as it’s more concentrated and can make the dish too salty.

• What kind of pan works best for searing scallops?

A cast iron skillet is ideal because it provides even heat distribution and creates an excellent golden crust. If you don’t have cast iron, use a heavy-bottomed stainless steel or non-stick pan that can handle high heat.

Lemon Butter Scallops Recipe

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4.8 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 2 1x

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Description

Silky lemon butter scallops dance with golden-brown edges, promising Mediterranean coastal elegance on your plate. Creamy butter, zesty citrus, and perfectly seared seafood create an effortless gourmet experience you’ll savor with each delicate bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound scallops

Fats and Butter:

• 3 tablespoons (42 grams) unsalted butter

Seasonings and Herbs:

• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
• Kosher salt (to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

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Instructions

1. Prepare scallops by carefully removing the tough side muscle. Rinse under cold water and thoroughly dry with paper towels to ensure a perfect golden sear.
2. Season scallops generously with salt and pepper. Heat cast iron skillet to medium-high and melt butter until it foams and turns slightly golden.
3. Arrange scallops in a single layer without touching, cooking 1-2 minutes per side. Aim for a deep golden exterior while maintaining a slightly translucent center. Cook in batches if necessary to prevent overcrowding.
4. Remove seared scallops to a plate. In the same skillet, add remaining butter and sauté minced garlic for approximately 60 seconds until aromatic, being cautious not to burn.
5. Deglaze pan with fresh lemon juice, creating a quick pan sauce. Season with additional salt and pepper to enhance flavor profile.
6. Pour warm lemon butter sauce directly over seared scallops, ensuring even coverage.
7. Finish the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and herbal freshness. Serve immediately while the scallops are hot and sauce is warm.

Notes

• Pat scallops completely dry to achieve a perfect golden sear and prevent steaming during cooking.
• Remove the tough side muscle before cooking to ensure tender, delicious texture and improve overall eating experience.
• Use a cast iron skillet for even heat distribution and creating a beautiful caramelized exterior on the scallops.
• Watch cooking time carefully as scallops can quickly become rubbery and overcooked if left too long in the pan.
• For a gluten-free version, ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free and use clarified butter or ghee.
• Pair with light sides like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to keep the meal low-carb and emphasize the scallops’ delicate flavor.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 4 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg