Garlic and Lemon Seared Scallops with Asparagus (22-23 Minutes)

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This dish combines the rich taste of sea scallops with the bright flavors of garlic, lemon, and butter for an utterly satisfying dish. The scallops are seared until golden brown while the asparagus is sautéed until tender and slightly caramelized. Whether you’re looking for a special dinner or a quick and satisfying weekday meal, this recipe has got you covered. Let’s begin!

  • Prep Time: 8 minutes
  • Cook Time: 14-15 minutes
  • Total Time: 22-23 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 large sea scallops
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 bunch asparagus, woody ends trimmed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Season the sea scallops with salt and black pepper on both sides.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and foamy, add the scallops in a single layer, ensuring some space between each scallop. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the scallops to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
  3. In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  4. Add the asparagus to the skillet and the olive oil (if needed) and sauté for 3-4 minutes.
  5. Return the seared scallops to the skillet with the asparagus. Add the lemon zest and chopped parsley, and gently toss to coat the scallops with the flavorful mixture.
  6. Cook for another minute or two until the asparagus is tender but still firm.
  7. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

To ensure a good sear, pat the scallops dry before seasoning and make sure your pan is nice and hot before cooking. Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the scallops and asparagus just before serving for an extra burst of flavor. Serve with a light salad or crusty bread to complement the flavors. Enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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