Lemon Butter Scallops are tender seafood pieces cooked in a bright, buttery sauce with fresh lemon juice. They are quick to make and taste fresh and zesty, perfect for a special yet simple meal.
I once tried making these with too much lemon and learned less is more! Now I squeeze just a little for the perfect tang every time.
For a nice finishing touch, I like to sprinkle some chopped parsley on top before serving. It adds color and a fresh flavor that makes the dish look as good as it tastes.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Scallops: I prefer sea scallops for their meaty texture, but bay scallops are a budget-friendly alternative. Make sure they’re dry before cooking to get a good sear. Fresh or frozen both work; just pat them dry before cooking.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemon adds bright, tangy flavor that balances richness. If you don’t have fresh, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch. You can also use lime for a different citrus twist.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives the sauce richness. I recommend using high-quality butter for the best flavor. For a dairy-free option, olive oil adds a lighter, fruity note, though it changes the texture.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds aromatic punch. Mince it finely to prevent burning. If you’re out, garlic powder can work; just use less since it’s more concentrated.
How do I sear scallops without overcooking them?
Start with a hot skillet and a little oil. Pat scallops dry and season. Place them in the pan without crowding, and don’t move them for about 2-3 minutes until a golden crust forms. Flip and cook each side 1-2 minutes more for a perfect sear.
- Ensure pan is hot before adding scallops to prevent sticking and achieve a crispy outside.
- Avoid over-crowding; cook in batches if necessary so heat stays high.
- Watch for opaque color change—overcooked scallops turn rubbery quickly.
How to Make Lemon Butter Scallops?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Seafood
- 1 pound sea scallops, cleaned
Dairy & Fats
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Liquids & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation: 5 minutes, Cooking: 5 minutes, Total: 10 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the scallops
Pat the scallops dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Melt the butter
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt.
3. Cook the scallops
Place scallops in the skillet. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and done inside.
4. Add lemon and butter sauce
Stir in lemon juice and remaining butter. Cook for 1 minute, spooning sauce over the scallops.
5. Serve
Garnish with parsley if using. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
