Description
Craving a quick dinner that feels like fine dining? Garlic Lemon Butter Seared Scallops bring restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen in under 20 minutes. These golden-seared scallops are rich, buttery, and brightened with fresh lemon and garlic. Whether you’re after an easy dinner idea, healthy protein-packed meal, or elegant appetizer, this easy recipe is a perfect go-to. Ideal for busy weeknights or a romantic dinner, this dish balances elegance and ease like no other. It’s low-carb, gluten-free, and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients
12 large sea scallops
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
1. Pat scallops dry with paper towels until no surface moisture remains.
2. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a cast iron or heavy skillet over medium-high and add olive oil.
4. Once oil is hot and shimmering, place scallops in the skillet without crowding.
5. Sear undisturbed for 2–3 minutes until a golden crust forms.
6. Flip scallops and immediately add butter and garlic.
7. Baste scallops with the melted garlic butter for another 1–2 minutes.
8. Remove from heat, squeeze lemon juice over the scallops, and sprinkle with parsley.
9. Serve hot with your favorite side dish.
Notes
Pat scallops dry thoroughly to get a perfect sear.
Use a cast iron skillet for best caramelization and heat retention.
Don’t overcook—the center should be just opaque and tender.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 scallops
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: easy dinner, scallop recipe, seafood ideas, quick dinner, gluten-free