Seared Scallops in Lemon Butter
When it comes to fresh seafood my advice is this: KISS (Keep it Simple Seafood). Highlight the natural fresh flavor of the fish or seafood by keeping the ingredients simple and natural. I love how properly cooked scallops melt in your mouth. They are nutritious, as well as delicious, averaging 20 grams of protein for every 3 oz serving. It's like a tender steak from the sea! Their mild sweet flavor with that caramelized crust when seared in a super hot pan is sensational. I love the charred lemon as it adds a tangy undertone to the salty sauce. The cast iron skillet achieves the desired brown and crispy edges- you can also use another type of skillet if you don't have one. If you love scallops already, let this be your go-to recipe! If you don't I highly suggest you give these a try!
Made with Amore,
Elena
Cast iron pan works perfect to get that delicious sear!
The lemon adds a special element to the butter and highlights the natural scallop flavor well!
Enjoy!
Seared Scallops in Lemon Butter
Recipe details
Ingredients
- 11-12 fresh or frozen sea scallops
- sea salt for seasoning ground pepper (optional for seasoning- I prefer without)
- 1 small lemon, sliced in 1/4 inch slices
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup freshly cut parsley
Instructions
Preparing and Searing the Scallops in Lemon Butter
- Prepare scallops by patting them completely dry with a paper towel. Season with sea salt on both sides (optional season with ground pepper as well). Set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a cast iron pan or other large saucepan on medium high heat
- Once the butter is melted add the lemon and cook until brown on both sides
- Remove lemons from pan and set aside
- Add the scallops one at a time to the pan. Make sure to space them evenly so they don't steam in the pan. If your pan is small cook in two batches.
- Add the other 1 tablespoon of butter and olive oil to the pan
- Sear the scallops for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Only turn and touch one time- no need to move them around in the pan. Flip with tongs to turn at half way cooking point. Do not overcook.
- Take skillet off heat
- Add the lemons back to the pan and garnish with parsley
- Serve hot!
Tips
- Make sure the scallops are nice and dry when you put them in the hot skillet and don't over crowd the pan or they will boil and not sear!
Comments
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