Lemon Butter Scallops (Printable View)

Seared sea scallops glazed with bright lemon butter for a fresh and elegant main course.

# What You'll Need:

→ Seafood

01 - 1 lb large sea scallops, patted dry

→ Sauce

02 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
03 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 - Zest of 1 lemon
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
07 - 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
08 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
09 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Garnish

10 - Lemon wedges for serving

# How To Make It:

01 - Pat the scallops thoroughly dry with paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
02 - Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot and shimmering, add the scallops in a single layer, cooking in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
03 - Sear scallops undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until a golden crust forms. Flip and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until just opaque. Transfer scallops to a plate and cover loosely to keep warm.
04 - Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter to the skillet. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
05 - Pour in the wine or broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits, until slightly reduced.
06 - Return scallops and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Spoon the lemon butter sauce over the scallops and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
07 - Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish
  • Restaurant-quality results with simple techniques
  • Light yet satisfying, perfect for pescatarian and gluten-free diets
  • The bright lemon butter sauce is absolutely irresistible
  • Impressive enough for guests, easy enough for weeknights
02 -
  • Remove the small side muscle from scallops if still attached—it becomes tough when cooked
  • Use a large skillet to prevent overcrowding and ensure proper searing
  • Don't move the scallops once they're in the pan—patience creates that perfect crust
  • If using store-bought broth or wine, verify gluten-free status if needed
  • Have all ingredients prepped before you start cooking—this dish moves quickly
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