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Perfect Seared Scallops Recipe with Easy Brown Butter Sauce

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A quick and easy recipe for perfectly seared scallops served with a rich, nutty brown butter sauce that delivers gourmet flavor with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 large sea scallops, dry-packed (about 1 pound / 450 g), patted dry
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (preferably European-style, for richness)
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Remove the side muscle from each scallop if still attached. Pat scallops dry thoroughly with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  3. Place scallops in the pan spaced apart. Cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes until the underside is golden brown. Flip carefully and cook for 1-2 more minutes until the other side is seared and the center is just opaque. Remove scallops and set aside on a warm plate.
  4. In the same skillet or a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir frequently as it foams and turns golden brown and smells nutty (about 3-4 minutes).
  5. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Remove pan from heat and stir in lemon juice, chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes if using. Taste and adjust salt if necessary.
  7. Pour the brown butter sauce over the seared scallops immediately. Garnish with extra parsley or lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

Pat scallops very dry before searing to ensure a golden crust. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. Watch the butter closely when browning to avoid burning. The sauce can be made with or without garlic. For dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and use lime juice instead of lemon.

Nutrition

Keywords: seared scallops, brown butter sauce, seafood recipe, quick dinner, easy scallops, gluten-free, low-carb

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