Description
Sumptuous “lemon-garlic scallops delight” delivers Mediterranean coastal charm with elegant simplicity. Seafood enthusiasts will savor perfectly seared scallops kissed by tangy citrus and aromatic garlic notes that dance across palates.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound sea scallops, patted dry
- 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) butter
Seasoning and Flavoring:
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil
- 1 medium lemon (juice from half, other half sliced)
Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Meticulously pat scallops completely dry using clean kitchen towels, eliminating excess moisture to guarantee a perfect golden-brown exterior when searing.
- Season scallops generously with salt and pepper, ensuring an even coating across both surfaces for maximum flavor enhancement.
- Preheat a robust cast-iron skillet over medium-high temperature, allowing the surface to become scorching hot for an ideal caramelized crust.
- Drizzle olive oil into the skillet, creating a thin, even layer that will promote uniform searing and prevent scallops from sticking.
- Carefully place seasoned scallops into the heated skillet, maintaining sufficient space between each piece to prevent steaming and promote proper browning.
- Cook scallops undisturbed for approximately 2-3 minutes, allowing a rich golden crust to develop before gently flipping to the opposite side.
- Once scallops achieve a delicate golden exterior and translucent center, transfer them to a separate plate, preserving their tender texture.
- Reduce skillet heat and introduce butter, swirling until completely melted and slightly bubbling.
- Incorporate minced garlic, stirring rapidly to prevent burning and release its aromatic essence throughout the pan.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice directly into the butter-garlic mixture, creating a vibrant, zesty sauce that will complement the scallops’ delicate flavor.
- Return seared scallops to the skillet, gently coating them in the luxurious lemon-garlic sauce, ensuring each piece is thoroughly embraced by the tangy mixture.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and delicate lemon wedges, adding a burst of color and a final layer of bright, citrusy complexity.
Notes
- Perfectly dry scallops are crucial for achieving a golden-brown sear that locks in delicious flavors and creates a crispy exterior.
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet like cast-iron or stainless-steel to ensure even heat distribution and prevent burning.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain high heat and allow each scallop to caramelize beautifully without steaming.
- Cook scallops for just 2-3 minutes per side to prevent overcooking, which can make them tough and rubbery.
- Fresh ingredients like fresh lemon juice and parsley elevate the dish’s brightness and provide a zesty, fresh finish.
- Serve immediately after cooking to enjoy the scallops at their peak texture and temperature, ensuring maximum flavor and enjoyment.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 540 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 130 mg