Butter Garlic Scallops are a restaurant-quality dish that you can easily make at home, featuring tender, juicy scallops seared to perfection and bathed in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. With just a few simple ingredients and the right technique, you can enjoy scallops that are golden-brown on the outside and succulent on the inside. Follow these secrets to achieve the perfect savory Butter Garlic Scallops that will impress even the toughest food critic.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large sea scallops, patted dry
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, for added depth)
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Scallops:
- Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove as much moisture as possible. This is crucial for getting a good sear. Season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat the Pan:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Allow the butter to melt and the oil to become shimmering hot but not smoking.
- Sear the Scallops:
- Place the scallops in the skillet, ensuring they are spaced apart so they do not touch (cook in batches if needed). Sear for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until a golden crust forms on each side. Avoid moving the scallops around; let them sear undisturbed for the best crust.
- Once both sides are golden-brown, remove the scallops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
- Make the Butter Garlic Sauce:
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- If using, pour in the white wine and let it simmer for about 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Stir in the lemon juice.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return the scallops to the skillet and spoon the butter garlic sauce over them. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to heat the scallops through.
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the scallops.
Tips for Perfect Butter Garlic Scallops
- Dry Scallops Are Key: Make sure the scallops are dry before cooking. Moisture on the surface will prevent a proper sear, resulting in steamed rather than browned scallops.
- High Heat for Searing: Use a hot skillet to sear the scallops. This helps create a golden crust without overcooking the inside.
- Do Not Overcook: Scallops cook quickly, and overcooking can make them rubbery. Aim for a firm texture with a slight translucence in the center.
- Use Fresh, Quality Scallops: For the best flavor, use fresh sea scallops if available. Frozen scallops should be thawed completely and patted dry before cooking.
Why You’ll Love Butter Garlic Scallops
Butter Garlic Scallops are a luxurious dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. The rich and flavorful garlic butter sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops, while the searing process adds a delicious caramelized crust. This dish is versatile enough to be served as an elegant appetizer or as a main course paired with pasta, risotto, or a light salad. The combination of garlic, butter, and a hint of lemon brings out the best in the scallops, making each bite truly irresistible.
Serving Suggestions
- Over Pasta: Serve the scallops on a bed of linguine or spaghetti tossed in the butter garlic sauce for a complete meal.
- With Risotto: Pair with a creamy Parmesan risotto for an indulgent dinner.
- On a Salad: Add the scallops on top of a fresh green salad with arugula, spinach, or mixed greens for a lighter option.
- With Crusty Bread: Use bread to soak up the delicious butter garlic sauce.
Conclusion
The secret to perfect Butter Garlic Scallops lies in proper preparation and the right cooking technique. By ensuring the scallops are dry, using high heat for searing, and being careful not to overcook them, you can achieve restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen. This dish is all about simplicity, with a few key ingredients coming together to create an unforgettable flavor experience. Try this recipe, and you’ll discover just how easy and delicious homemade scallops can be.