If you’ve ever wondered how to make a restaurant-quality seafood dish at home, this Pan Seared Scallops with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe is about to become your new go-to. The tender, golden crusted scallops paired with a bright, zingy lemon garlic sauce create a dazzling combination that feels both indulgent and fresh. Every bite bursts with flavor, showing just how simple ingredients can transform into an extraordinary meal. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a weeknight treat, these scallops will impress without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to capturing all the bright and buttery notes in this dish. Each component plays a crucial role—salt and pepper season the scallops perfectly, olive oil and butter create that irresistible sear and sauce base, while garlic and lemon add brightness and depth.
- Sea scallops (1 ½ lbs): Pat them dry thoroughly for the best sear and tender texture.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to enhance natural flavors.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Helps create a golden crust and prevents sticking.
- Unsalted butter (2 tbsp): Adds richness and forms the base for the luscious sauce.
- Garlic cloves, minced (3): Infuses the sauce with savory, aromatic depth.
- Dry white wine or chicken broth (1/4 cup): Adds acidity and richness to balance the butter.
- Lemon juice (juice of 1 lemon, about 2 tbsp): Brings bright zestiness to the sauce.
- Lemon zest (1 tsp): Intensifies the citrus aroma without extra liquid.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tbsp): Adds a fresh herbal finish and color contrast.
How to Make Pan Seared Scallops with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season Your Scallops
Start by patting your sea scallops dry using paper towels—this step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden crust when they sear. Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides, seasoning them just right to boost their natural sweetness and oceanic flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Scallops
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Lay the scallops in a single layer without overcrowding the pan to ensure an even sear. Cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes until a beautiful golden crust forms and the scallops release easily from the pan. Remove them and set aside—this is the part where patience pays off!
Step 3: Create the Lemon Garlic Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium, add butter to the same pan, and let it melt completely. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it releases an irresistible aroma. Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth if you prefer), fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Let this simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly and thicken, capturing all those brilliant flavors.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Return the scallops to the pan and spoon the luscious lemon garlic sauce over them. Cook for another minute to let everything meld together and warm through. Finish with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley to brighten both the taste and appearance before serving.
How to Serve Pan Seared Scallops with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is your best friend here, offering a vibrant green pop that contrasts beautifully with the golden scallops. For extra zest, a few thin lemon slices or a light sprinkle of lemon zest on top bring a gourmet touch that wows every guest.
Side Dishes
This Pan Seared Scallops with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like fluffy white rice or creamy pasta that soak up the sauce perfectly. Alternatively, crusty artisan bread offers a delightful way to savor every last drop of that tangy garlic butter.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, try serving the scallops atop a bed of sautéed spinach or alongside grilled asparagus. Plating them with a drizzle of sauce artistically spooned around the plate also elevates the dish, turning a simple dinner into a special event.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with any leftovers, place the scallops and sauce in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator up to two days. Due to the delicate texture of scallops, it’s best to enjoy them fresh but refrigeration keeps the flavors intact for a quick second meal.
Freezing
Freezing cooked scallops is not generally recommended because it affects their tender texture. However, the lemon garlic sauce freezes well on its own if prepared ahead—just thaw gently and reheat to pair with freshly cooked scallops for the best experience.
Reheating
Reheat leftover scallops gently in a skillet over low heat for just a minute or two to avoid overcooking. Pour the lemon garlic sauce over them while warming to keep the dish juicy and flavorful, but remember that fresh is always best with seafood.
FAQs
Can I use frozen scallops for this Pan Seared Scallops with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry thoroughly before cooking. Dry scallops will sear much better and develop that irresistible golden crust.
What can I substitute for white wine in the sauce?
If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth or even vegetable broth works beautifully. These options still add a nice depth of flavor without overpowering the lemon garlic sauce.
How do I know when scallops are perfectly cooked?
Scallops are done when they have a nicely browned crust on each side and feel slightly firm but still springy to the touch. Overcooking makes them rubbery, so aim for just a few minutes per side.
Can I prepare any parts of this recipe in advance?
You can mince the garlic, zest and juice the lemon ahead of time and even measure out your liquids. Cooking scallops fresh right before serving, however, makes the biggest difference in texture and flavor.
Are scallops healthy to eat?
Yes! Scallops are a great source of lean protein, low in calories and packed with important nutrients like magnesium and potassium. This Pan Seared Scallops with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe balances richness and freshness for a wholesome treat.
Final Thoughts
Nothing feels quite as satisfying as creating a dish at home that tastes like it belongs in a five-star restaurant, and this Pan Seared Scallops with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe does exactly that. It’s simple, elegant, and bursting with flavor—all while being quick to make. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how easy it is to impress with scallops. Your taste buds are in for a wonderful treat!
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Pan Seared Scallops with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Pan Seared Scallops with Lemon Garlic Sauce recipe features succulent sea scallops seared to perfection with a golden crust, then finished in a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce. It’s a quick and elegant seafood dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, pairing beautifully with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Ingredients
Scallops
- 1 ½ lbs sea scallops, patted dry
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Lemon Garlic Sauce
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Scallops: Pat the scallops dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a great sear. Season both sides evenly with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Scallops: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add scallops in a single layer without crowding. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until a golden crust forms and they release easily from the pan. Remove scallops and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and add unsalted butter to the same pan. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and sauté about 30 seconds until fragrant without browning.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the white wine or chicken broth, then add lemon juice and lemon zest. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced and flavorful.
- Combine and Finish: Return the scallops to the pan, spooning the lemon garlic sauce over them. Cook an additional minute to warm through and meld flavors.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately, paired with your choice of rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Notes
- Thoroughly drying scallops before cooking helps achieve a better sear and crust.
- If using frozen scallops, fully thaw and blot dry before cooking.
- Serve with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to enjoy all the flavorful sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
