Garlic Butter Pan Seared Scallops
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
I love making Garlic Butter Pan Seared Scallops for dinner because it’s a quick and elegant dish that feels like a restaurant-quality meal right at home. With just a few ingredients, I can achieve scallops with a beautifully caramelized exterior while remaining tender inside. The fragrant combination of garlic and butter adds depth to the dish, creating a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the scallops. Every bite is a delightful experience that never fails to impress, whether for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
When I first attempted Garlic Butter Pan Seared Scallops, I was amazed by how quickly they cooked. The secret, I found, is ensuring that the pan is hot enough to create that gorgeous golden crust. I also learned the importance of drying the scallops with a paper towel beforehand; this way, they sear beautifully instead of steaming in the pan.
One memorable night, I decided to pair the scallops with a lemon-infused risotto, which complemented the dish perfectly. I have found that using fresh herbs like parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that elevates the presentation and taste. This dish is certainly a keeper in my recipe collection!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- The irresistible aroma of garlic mingling with butter creates a mouth-watering experience.
- Scallops are quick to cook, making this dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
- A delightful balance of textures with a crispy sear and tender interior.
Mastering the Sear
Achieving the perfect sear on scallops is crucial for elevating their flavor and texture. Make sure to use a hot skillet and avoid crowding the pan. Overcrowding leads to steaming rather than searing. An optimal way to gauge the skillet's readiness is to sprinkle a few drops of water in; if they immediately sizzle and evaporate, you're ready to add your scallops. Listen for that satisfying sizzle when you place them in the pan—this sound is your cue to a beautifully caramelized crust.
When searing scallops, timing is everything. The ideal cooking time on the first side is about 2-3 minutes. Look for a golden-brown crust that forms around the edges, indicating that they're ready to flip. If you try to turn them and they stick to the pan, they need more time. Once flipped, add the garlic and butter—this not only infuses flavor but also aids in further browning.
Perfecting the Garlic Butter Sauce
The garlic butter sauce is what takes these scallops from good to sensational. It's essential to use fresh garlic for the best flavor; minced garlic will become fragrant and begin to soften after just a minute in the hot butter. Be cautious not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste. Stir the garlic around the scallops for even flavor distribution while keeping an eye on it to achieve a golden color without overcooking.
Basting the scallops with the melted garlic butter enhances their flavor and allows them to soak up the richness of the butter. Using a spoon, scoop the garlic butter from the pan and drizzle it over the scallops repeatedly during the last few minutes of cooking. This technique not only promotes even cooking but also adds moisture, ensuring that the scallops remain tender and juicy inside.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
For the Scallops
- 8 large sea scallops
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
These ingredients come together to create a harmonious and flavorful dish!
Instructions
Instructions:
Prepare the Scallops
Dry the scallops thoroughly with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Heat the Pan
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Sear the Scallops
Carefully add the scallops to the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd them. Sear for 2-3 minutes on one side until golden brown.
Add Garlic and Butter
Flip the scallops and add butter and minced garlic to the pan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, basting the scallops with the melted garlic butter.
Serve
Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Enjoy your deliciously seared scallops!
Pro Tips
- For the best results, use dry-packed scallops and ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding them. This technique creates a perfect sear and enhances the flavors.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you're looking to make this dish dairy-free, you can substitute the butter with a high-quality plant-based alternative. Olive oil alone can also be used, though the flavor profile will be slightly different. For those wanting a richer sauce, consider adding a splash of white wine after flipping the scallops, which enhances the flavor of the dish while maintaining its elegance.
When it comes to scallops, sea scallops are recommended for their size and sweetness. However, if you can only find bay scallops, reduce the cooking time as they are smaller and can overcook quickly, usually around 1-2 minutes per side.
Serving Ideas
Garlic Butter Pan Seared Scallops pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them over a bed of creamy risotto or alongside sautéed asparagus for a dinner that feels indulgent yet balanced. A light salad with a citrus vinaigrette also complements the richness of the scallops, adding freshness to your meal.
For a more casual offering, serve these scallops on toasted baguette slices as an elegant appetizer. This creates a delightful bite-sized option that showcases the gorgeous flavor of the scallops without much fuss. Just be sure to spoon some of that luscious garlic butter over the bread for an extra treat.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, but it’s essential to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
→ What can I serve with scallops?
Scallops pair wonderfully with risotto, pasta, or a simple green salad.
→ How do I know when scallops are cooked through?
Scallops are done when they are opaque and firm to the touch. They should not be rubbery.
→ Can I add more flavors to the butter?
Absolutely! Consider adding lemon juice, capers, or even a splash of white wine for additional flavor.
Garlic Butter Pan Seared Scallops
I love making Garlic Butter Pan Seared Scallops for dinner because it’s a quick and elegant dish that feels like a restaurant-quality meal right at home. With just a few ingredients, I can achieve scallops with a beautifully caramelized exterior while remaining tender inside. The fragrant combination of garlic and butter adds depth to the dish, creating a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the scallops. Every bite is a delightful experience that never fails to impress, whether for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
What You'll Need
For the Scallops
- 8 large sea scallops
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How-To Steps
Dry the scallops thoroughly with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Carefully add the scallops to the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd them. Sear for 2-3 minutes on one side until golden brown.
Flip the scallops and add butter and minced garlic to the pan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, basting the scallops with the melted garlic butter.
Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Extra Tips
- For the best results, use dry-packed scallops and ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding them. This technique creates a perfect sear and enhances the flavors.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 4g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 30g