Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce – Quick & Elegant Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that feels luxurious yet is incredibly simple to prepare, Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce is the perfect choice. These tender, golden-brown scallops bathed in a velvety lemon butter sauce are the epitome of elegance on a plate. 

Whether it’s a special dinner for two or a quick weeknight indulgence, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of sophisticated flavor and ease of preparation. 

What makes it truly stand out is how the natural sweetness of scallops pairs beautifully with the tangy brightness of lemon, all brought together with the richness of butter.

Why You’ll Love Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
  
• Minimal Ingredients: You only need a handful of pantry staples and fresh scallops.
  
• Showstopper Presentation: Golden seared scallops drizzled with glossy sauce make for an Instagram-worthy dish.
  
• Versatile: Serve it as an appetizer, light dinner, or pair it with your favorite sides for a full meal.
  
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit dietary preferences or add extra flavors like garlic or fresh herbs.

Ingredients

For the Scallops:

• 1 pound sea scallops, patted dry
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional, for extra flavor)
• ½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-ons:

• Capers for a briny touch
• Heavy cream for a richer sauce

How To Make Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce

1. Prepare the Scallops: Begin by patting the scallops dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a beautiful golden crust. Season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
   
2. Sear the Scallops: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, gently place the scallops in the pan, leaving space between each one. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a deep golden crust. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set them aside.
   
3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. If you’re using garlic, sauté it for 30 seconds until fragrant. Deglaze the pan with white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes if using. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
   
4. Combine: Return the scallops to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them. Cook for another minute to warm through. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

• Dry Scallops Are Key: Excess moisture prevents proper searing. Always pat scallops dry thoroughly.
  
• High Heat for Searing: Use medium-high heat to ensure a crispy, golden exterior without overcooking the scallops.
  
• Don’t Overcrowd: Overcrowding the pan can lower the temperature, causing scallops to steam rather than sear.
  
• Use Fresh Lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest bring vibrant flavor, far superior to bottled alternatives.
  
• Deglazing Is Essential: Deglazing the pan ensures the sauce captures all those flavorful browned bits left behind by the scallops.

How To Serve

Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce are versatile and can be served in several ways:

• Classic Pairings: Serve over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or alongside a light, herby rice pilaf.
  
• Vegetable Accompaniments: Pair with roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or steamed broccoli.
  
• Light Option: Place on a bed of mixed greens drizzled with extra lemon butter sauce for a refreshing meal.
  
• Elegant Touch: For a restaurant-style presentation, serve with a garnish of microgreens and a lemon wedge.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fat: 19g
• Sodium: 460mg
• Adjustments: For a lighter option, reduce butter or skip the optional cream addition.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  
• Reheating: Gently reheat scallops in a skillet over low heat with a bit of sauce to prevent them from drying out.
  
• Freezing: While scallops are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked scallops for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce is a recipe that effortlessly marries elegance and ease. Its rich, tangy flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture make it a must-try for seafood lovers. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or simply treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Try it out and let us know how it turned out for you! Don’t forget to explore our other seafood recipes for more delicious ideas.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use frozen scallops? A: Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to ensure a proper sear.

Q: What can I use instead of white wine? A: Chicken broth or vegetable stock works perfectly as a substitute.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free? A: Swap butter for a plant-based alternative like olive oil or vegan butter.

Q: How do I know when scallops are cooked? A: Perfectly cooked scallops are opaque and slightly springy to the touch. Avoid overcooking, as they can become rubbery.

Enjoy your culinary journey with this delightful recipe—happy cooking!