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Preparation Steps
1. Prep the Scallops
- Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps achieve a beautiful sear.
- Season the scallops generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Sear the Scallops
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and a tablespoon of butter. Once the butter melts and the pan is hot, add the scallops in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until the scallops develop a golden-brown crust. Resist the urge to move them around so they get that beautiful caramelization. Once done, transfer them to a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining butter and minced garlic, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden.
- Stir in the lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the pan for added flavor.
4. Finish the Dish
- Return the scallops to the skillet and spoon the garlic butter sauce over them. Let them warm for a minute, coating each scallop in the rich sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Scallops
- Use Fresh Scallops: Fresh, high-quality scallops make all the difference. If they have excess moisture, pat them dry to get a perfect sear.
- Preheat the Pan: A hot skillet is essential for caramelizing the scallops without overcooking them.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Overcrowding causes steaming instead of searing, so work in batches if needed.
Serving Suggestions
These Savory Butter Garlic Scallops pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve them over creamy risotto, garlic mashed potatoes, or alongside a simple green salad and crusty bread to soak up every drop of that delicious garlic butter sauce. For a wine pairing, try a crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the dish’s rich flavors.
Treat Yourself to Gourmet Flavor!
This recipe for Butter Garlic Scallops brings all the decadence of a fine dining experience straight to your kitchen. With its beautiful presentation and tantalizing flavors, it’s a fantastic choice for any special occasion or when you simply want to enjoy something extra special. Gather your ingredients, warm up the skillet, and savor every buttery, garlicky bite of these exquisite scallops.
Bon appétit! ✨🍽️
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