These plump and succulent scallops are pan-seared to golden perfection and bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce that’s simply irresistible. What sets this dish apart is the delightful balance between the natural sweetness of the scallops and the savory richness of garlic and butter. It’s a dish that’s both elegant and easy, making it a go-to for special occasions or when you simply crave a restaurant-worthy meal at home.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 pound large sea scallops
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 lemon, sliced, for garnish

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Instructions

Pat the scallops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the scallops in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pan. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they develop a golden crust. Remove scallops from the skillet and set them aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. If desired, pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
Return the scallops to the skillet, coating them in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring the scallops are heated through.
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the scallops. Garnish with lemon slices. Serve immediately.

Notes

Choose fresh, dry scallops. Excess moisture can prevent a good sear. Be very careful not to overcook the scallops. They should be opaque and slightly firm, but not rubbery. Feel free to adjust the garlic to your preference. Add more or less for a milder or stronger flavor. For an extra touch, serve over a bed of cooked pasta or with crusty bread to soak up that delicious garlic butter sauce. 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.