Pan-Seared Sea Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce New Year Recipe
A simple and elegant dish featuring perfectly seared sea scallops with a rich lemon butter sauce.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12piecedry sea scallops
- 1tbspextra-virgin olive oil
- 4tbspbutter
- 1tbsplemon juice
- 1/4tspsalt
- 1/4tspfreshly ground black pepper
- 1piecelemon wedge
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
130.0kcal (6.5%)
Protein
15.0g (30%)
Carbs
1.5g (0.55%)
Sugars
0.0g
Healthy Fat
7.0g
Unhealthy Fat
3.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Pan-Seared Sea Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce New Year Recipe
Preparation
Remove the tiny, tough side muscle from the scallops if present and rinse if necessary. Dry the scallops very well with a paper towel.
Cooking
Heat a large cast iron pan or thick-bottom nonstick sauté pan over medium-high heat until very hot. Add the olive oil and ½ tablespoon of the butter, and swirl to coat the pan.
Place the scallops in the pan and season with ⅛ teaspoon salt and ⅛ teaspoon pepper. Sear on the first side, without touching or flipping, for about 3 minutes, or until golden.
Using tongs, turn the scallops over, season with the remaining ⅛ teaspoon salt and ⅛ teaspoon pepper, and sear for another 1 to 2 minutes, until the scallops are just cooked through.
Move the scallops to a plate. Remove the pan from the heat and add the remaining 3½ tablespoons butter to the skillet. As the butter is melting, add the lemon juice and swirl the pan a few times, scraping up any browned bits with a wooden spoon.
Add the scallops back in the skillet, baste with the sauce to warm, and then divide onto 4 plates, using all the sauce. Garnish with lemon wedges, if desired.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
130.0kcal (6.5%)
Protein
15.0g (30%)
Carbs
1.5g (0.55%)
Sugars
0.0g
Healthy Fat
7.0g
Unhealthy Fat
3.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Ensure the scallops are very dry before searing to achieve a good browning.
Do not overcrowd the pan to allow even cooking and browning.
FAQS
How do I properly sear sea scallops for the best texture?
To achieve perfectly seared sea scallops, ensure they are very dry before cooking. Pat them with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Heat your pan until it's very hot, then add olive oil and a small amount of butter. Sear the scallops without moving them for about 3 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes.
What are some good substitutions for butter in the lemon butter sauce?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based butter or olive oil. For a lighter sauce, consider using a combination of olive oil and a splash of vegetable broth to maintain flavor while reducing fat content.
Can I make pan-seared sea scallops ahead of time and store them?
While it's best to serve pan-seared sea scallops fresh for optimal texture, you can prepare the lemon butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you need to store cooked scallops, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, but be aware that reheating may affect their texture.
What dietary restrictions does this pan-seared sea scallops recipe accommodate?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free with substitutions. It's also suitable for pescatarians. However, if you have a shellfish allergy, this dish is not safe for you, as scallops are a type of shellfish.
What side dishes pair well with pan-seared sea scallops?
Pan-seared sea scallops pair beautifully with light and fresh side dishes. Consider serving them with a simple arugula salad, roasted asparagus, or creamy risotto. A glass of crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, also complements the dish nicely.
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Saramin
(@678sarin)
My name is Saramin is a culinary enthusiast with a flair for transforming everyday ingredients into delightful, flavour-packed dishes. Passionate about home cooking, Sarin specializes in creating easy-to-follow recipes inspired by global cuisines. With a focus on fresh, wholesome ingredients, they make cooking accessible and enjoyable for cooks at any level. My name is Saramin is a culinary enthusiast with a flair for transforming everyday ingredients into delightful, flavour-packed dishes. Passionate about home cooking, Sarin specializes...
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