Preparing restaurant-quality sea scallops at home is now simpler than ever. This recipe features large, juicy scallops cooked to perfection. They’re finished with a rich garlic butter sauce. In just 20 minutes, we can enjoy a delicious pan-seared scallop dish. It’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
To achieve the perfect sear on the scallops, ensure they are properly dried and at room temperature before cooking. By following a few easy tips, we can get a beautiful golden-brown crust on the outside. Meanwhile, the interior remains slightly soft and tender. Pair these garlic butter scallops with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal.
Understanding Different Types of Scallops for Perfect Results
When cooking scallops, knowing the types and sizes is key for a perfect sear and texture. Let’s explore the essential factors to consider.
Fresh vs. Frozen Scallops
Fresh and thawed frozen scallops both work well for this recipe. Fresh scallops from the seafood counter are ideal if you can find them. However, well-handled frozen scallops can also yield great results. The important thing is to thaw the scallops correctly before cooking.
Dry vs. Wet Scallops Explained
Dry scallops are the best choice for searing, offering a better texture and caramelization. Wet scallops, treated with chemicals to extend shelf life, can be gummy and soft. Therefore, it’s best to choose dry-packed scallops for the best searing and flavor.
Selecting the Right Size for Searing
For searing, larger sea scallops are recommended, typically labeled as a 10/20 count (10-20 scallops per pound). These larger scallops sear beautifully and offer a satisfying texture. While smaller bay scallops are delicious, they can be harder to sear and may not caramelize as well.
Essential Ingredients for Sea Scallops Recipe with Butter Sauce
Creating a delicious sea scallops dish with garlic butter sauce is simpler than you might imagine. The recipe requires fresh, top-quality sea scallops, olive oil, unsalted butter, minced garlic, and fresh lemon juice. You’ll also need salt, ground black pepper, dry white wine (or broth), and chopped parsley.
When picking scallops, choose ones that are the same size and color, with a fresh, sweet smell. Steer clear of any scallops that look discolored or smell fishy. The garlic butter sauce, made with melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and herbs, adds a rich, flavorful coating.
This scallops recipe uses just 9 simple ingredients and takes less than 10 minutes to prepare. The cooking time is only 4-5 minutes, ensuring the scallops are perfectly seared and the sauce is smooth.
Serving suggestions include buttery sautéed green beans, a refreshing lemon garlic and asparagus salad, or creamy browned butter mashed potatoes. Each serving has 446 calories, with 11g carbohydrates, 35g protein, and 29g fat.
Preparing Scallops for the Perfect Sear
Achieving a golden-brown sear on scallops is crucial for unlocking their sweet, tender flavor. Proper preparation before cooking is essential for the best results. Let’s explore the steps to ensure your scallops are ready for a perfect sear.
Proper Thawing Techniques
For frozen scallops, correct thawing is vital. The best method is to thaw them in cold water for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing helps retain moisture and texture, preventing them from becoming watery or rubbery.
Drying Methods for Better Browning
After thawing, pat the scallops dry with paper towels. This step removes excess moisture. Opt for dry-packed scallops, untreated with chemicals, for the best sear. The drier the scallops, the better they will brown when seared.
Temperature and Timing Tips
Let the scallops rest at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before cooking. This step ensures even searing. When cooking, ensure the pan is hot enough for the scallops to sizzle immediately. High heat is key for that caramelized crust.
By following these preparation techniques, you’ll be well on your way to cooking up perfectly seared scallops. Remember, the key is to thaw, dry, and heat the scallops properly for the ultimate sear.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparing delectable pan-seared scallops is easier than you might think. First, we’ll heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil or a pat of butter. Once the oil is shimmering or the butter is melted, it’s time to add the seasoned scallops. Arrange them in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch each other.
The key to achieving the perfect sear on your scallops is to let them cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes per side. This allows them to develop that beautiful golden-brown crust. Once the first side is nicely seared, gently flip the scallops and let them cook for another 1-2 minutes, until they become opaque and cooked through.
After searing the scallops, remove them from the pan and set them aside. In the same skillet, we’ll prepare the delectable garlic butter sauce that will coat the scallops and enhance their flavor. Once the sauce is ready, simply return the seared scallops to the pan and give them a quick toss to ensure they’re evenly coated.
The entire cooking process, from start to finish, should take no more than 10 minutes. This ensures your scallops remain tender, juicy, and perfectly cooked. With these step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to master the art of how to cook scallops. You’ll create a mouthwatering pan-seared scallops recipe that’s sure to impress.
Creating the Ultimate Garlic Butter Sauce
Elevate your sea scallops with our flavorful garlic butter sauce. This decadent sauce is the perfect match for those juicy, seared scallops. Let’s explore the key components and techniques for crafting the ultimate garlic butter sauce.
Sauce Components and Measurements
To make our garlic butter sauce, you’ll need a few basic ingredients. You’ll need 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 4-5 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 cup of white wine or broth, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, and 1/4 cup of chopped parsley. The combination of rich butter, aromatic garlic, bright lemon, and fresh parsley is a culinary dream.
Flavor Enhancement Tips
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding capers or different herbs like thyme or oregano to the sauce. These small additions can enhance the taste and complement the delicate scallops perfectly. The goal is to let the scallops’ natural sweetness shine while adding the perfect balance of seasonings.
Proper Sauce Consistency
The sauce’s consistency is key. After removing the scallops, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Then, pour in the white wine or broth and let it simmer, reducing and thickening slightly. Stir in the lemon juice and any remaining butter. Adjust the consistency as needed, adding more liquid for a thinner sauce or cooking it down for a richer texture.
By following these simple steps, you’ll create a restaurant-worthy garlic butter sauce. This sauce will elevate your scallop dish to new heights of deliciousness. Enjoy this flavorful accompaniment with your perfectly seared scallops and savor every bite.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
For the best taste and texture, serve these delectable sea scallops immediately. They pair beautifully with simple yet flavourful side dishes. Consider crock pot baked potatoes, carrot soufflé, or a zesty zucchini casserole. For a more complete meal, serve the scallops over fluffy rice or with al dente pasta, accompanied by steamed seasonal vegetables.
To add a touch of tropical flair, a vibrant mango salsa or coconut cauliflower rice can be an excellent accompaniment. Garnish the dish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon. This will brighten up the flavours and elevate the presentation.
When selecting wine pairings, opt for crisp and slightly acidic varietals. Sancerre or Sauvignon Blanc complement the delicate sweetness of the scallops well. A fruity Gewürztraminer with a touch of acidity can also be a delightful match, offering a harmonious balance to the dish.
