Is there anything more irresistible than the aroma of scallops searing in garlic butter? If you’ve been searching for a quick yet gourmet seafood dish, you’re in for a treat. With this Garlic Butter Scallops recipe, you can indulge in a sophisticated meal without spending hours in the kitchen. You’ll learn just how simple it is to whip up this culinary delight in only 15 minutes, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or impressing guests at your next dinner party.
Ingredients List
To create your Garlic Butter Scallops masterpiece, you’ll need a handful of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Let’s take a look!
- Scallops: 1 pound of fresh sea scallops, preferably U-10 (the larger, the better for searing)
- Butter: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Garlic: 4 cloves of fresh garlic, finely minced
- Parsley: Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
- Lemon: 1 fresh lemon, juiced for brightness
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon for cooking (can substitute with vegetable oil)
- White Wine: Optional, ¼ cup for added flavor
Tip: If you can’t source fresh scallops, frozen scallops can work, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Timing
Cooking doesn’t have to be a time-consuming affair. Here’s how long each component of the Garlic Butter Scallops recipe will take:
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes (chopping garlic, cleaning scallops)
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
This means you can have a restaurant-quality meal ready in 20% less time than the average seafood recipe, which typically takes around 18-20 minutes!
How to Make It
1. Prepare the Scallops
Start with rinsing your scallops under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. This crucial step prevents them from steaming while cooking and ensures those perfect, golden-brown sears.
2. Heat Your Pan
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, it’s time to add the scallops.
Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan. If necessary, cook them in batches to get that optimal browning.
3. Sear the Scallops
Add the scallops to the skillet, making sure they are not touching one another. Let them sear undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes until they form a beautiful golden crust.
Pro Tip: If you try to flip them and they stick to the pan, they’re not ready. Give them a little more time.
4. Flip and Add Garlic
Once beautifully seared, flip the scallops and add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 4 cloves of minced garlic to the pan. Allow the butter to melt and use a spoon to baste the scallops with the melted garlic butter.
5. Finish with Lemon and Season
After cooking for another 2-3 minutes, remove the scallops from the pan. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over them and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Plate your Garlic Butter Scallops immediately while they’re hot. Whether you serve them over a bed of pasta, with crusty bread to soak up the sauce, or alongside a fresh salad, you can’t go wrong!
Nutritional Information
Indulging doesn’t have to mean compromising on health. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown for one serving of Garlic Butter Scallops (approximately 4 scallops):
- Calories: 215
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 12g (of which saturated fat: 7g)
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Sodium: 310mg
Data Insight: Scallops are not only delicious, but they are also a fantastic source of lean protein and vital nutrients like vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids, which can contribute to heart health.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Looking to pump up the nutritional profile of your Garlic Butter Scallops? Here are some fantastic alternatives:
- Swap out butter: Use ghee or a plant-based butter alternative for a healthier fat option.
- Add vegetables: Toss in some fresh spinach or cherry tomatoes while cooking for added fiber and nutrients.
- Decrease sodium: Use low-sodium broth instead of stock if you want to control salt intake.
Fun Idea: Swapping Scallops for Cauliflower
For a vegan twist, try using large cauliflower steaks! Season and sauté them in the garlic butter and get pretty much the same flavor profile while keeping your meal plant-based.
Serving Suggestions
Your Garlic Butter Scallops can stand on their own, but there are countless ways to make this dish shine even brighter. Here are a few delightful serving ideas:
- Pasta: Toss them with spaghetti or linguine mixed with a light white wine sauce.
- Risotto: Serve over creamy risotto for an indulgent touch.
- Salad: Pair with arugula and a light vinaigrette for a fresh contrast.
Personalized Tip
For a cozy vibe, serve your scallops family-style on a large platter with fresh lemon wedges and herb-infused olive oil for dipping.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best recipes can stumble if not executed properly. Here are some common pitfalls to be aware of:
- Overcrowding the pan: This will steam your scallops instead of searing them, resulting in a rubbery texture.
- Overcooking: Scallops only need about 4-5 minutes total; anything more will leave you with a tough bite.
- Using frozen scallops without thawing: Always ensure scallops are fully thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture during cooking.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, but it happens), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate: Place in an airtight container and they will keep for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently: Warm them on low heat in a skillet with a splash of lemon juice for the best results, preserving the delicate texture.
Prepping Ahead of Time
To save on preparation time, you can pre-chop your garlic and can prepare the parsley. Just remember to store everything in the fridge until you’re ready to cook!
Conclusion
In just 15 minutes, you can produce an incredible Garlic Butter Scallops dish that is sure to impress family, friends, or even just yourself. With fresh ingredients and simple steps, you’re ready to enjoy restaurant-quality scallops in the comfort of your home — all while feeling accomplished!
Don’t forget to give this recipe a try! Share your experience in the comments below, and if you loved it, explore more of our seafood recipes for delightful dining inspiration.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
2. What’s the best way to tell if scallops are done?
Scallops should be opaque and pearly white — overcooked scallops will look tough and rubbery.
3. How do I achieve the best sear?
Make sure your skillet is hot and dry before adding the scallops, and avoid overcrowding the pan.
4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free alternatives for any sauces, if adding.
5. What should I serve with Garlic Butter Scallops?
They pair well with pasta, fresh salads, or a side of roasted vegetables! You can get creative based on your preference.
Now, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to dive into an extraordinary garlic butter experience! Happy cooking!
PrintGarlic Butter Scallops Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Is there anything more irresistible than the aroma of scallops searing in garlic butter? If you’ve been searching for a quick yet gourmet seafood dish
Ingredients
To create your Garlic Butter Scallops masterpiece, you’ll need a handful of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Let’s take a look!
- Scallops: 1 pound of fresh sea scallops, preferably U-10 (the larger, the better for searing)
- Butter: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Garlic: 4 cloves of fresh garlic, finely minced
- Parsley: Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
- Lemon: 1 fresh lemon, juiced for brightness
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon for cooking (can substitute with vegetable oil)
- White Wine: Optional, ¼ cup for added flavor
Tip: If you can’t source fresh scallops, frozen scallops can work, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Instructions
Start with rinsing your scallops under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. This crucial step prevents them from steaming while cooking and ensures those perfect, golden-brown sears.
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, it’s time to add the scallops.
Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan. If necessary, cook them in batches to get that optimal browning.
Add the scallops to the skillet, making sure they are not touching one another. Let them sear undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes until they form a beautiful golden crust.
Pro Tip: If you try to flip them and they stick to the pan, they’re not ready. Give them a little more time.
Once beautifully seared, flip the scallops and add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 4 cloves of minced garlic to the pan. Allow the butter to melt and use a spoon to baste the scallops with the melted garlic butter.
After cooking for another 2-3 minutes, remove the scallops from the pan. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over them and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Plate your Garlic Butter Scallops immediately while they’re hot. Whether you serve them over a bed of pasta, with crusty bread to soak up the sauce, or alongside a fresh salad, you can’t go wrong!
Nutrition
- Calories: 215
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Protein: 24g