Scallops paired with a delectable garlic butter sauce are a treat that feels like a little luxury at home. Originating from coastal towns where fresh seafood is a staple, this dish brings a taste of the sea to our small Midwestern kitchens. It’s a delightful option to impress family and friends, especially when you’re looking to prepare something special but not overly complicated.
This rich and savory scallop dish pairs wonderfully with a light side salad or steamed vegetables to keep the meal balanced. Additionally, it goes perfectly with a serving of fluffy mashed potatoes or a side of rice pilaf to soak up that delicious garlic butter sauce. And don’t forget a warm, crusty bread roll for mopping up every last drop of sauce—it’s a must!
Ingredients
1 pound of scallops, cleaned
3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon of salt
1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
1 tablespoon of lemon juice
2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley
Preparation
Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden.
Place the scallops in the skillet, making sure they are not too crowded. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden crust and are cooked through.
Once the scallops are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Add the lemon juice to the skillet and scrape up any bits off the bottom to combine with the sauce.
Return the scallops to the skillet, gently tossing them in the garlic butter sauce to coat.
Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the scallops before serving.
Variations & Tips
For a bit of a kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream after adding the lemon juice. Picky eaters might enjoy the dish over a bed of pasta tossed in olive oil and a bit of the garlic butter sauce, which makes for a more comforting and familiar meal. And for a fun twist, try adding a handful of cherry tomatoes when cooking the garlic—they add a burst of color and sweetness to the dish.