Golden seared scallops with lemon butter sauce, garnished with asparagus and a lemon slice on a white plate.

Transform your dinner table into a gourmet experience with Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter. This elegant dish features golden-crusted scallops paired with a velvety butter sauce, delicately garnished for a fine dining touch. Perfect for impressing guests or elevating any special occasion!


Ingredients

Gather the essentials for a restaurant-quality meal:

For the Scallops:

  • 12 fresh sea scallops
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 tsp chopped parsley or dill
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes:

  • Lemon slices
  • Microgreens or sautéed asparagus


Step 1: Prepare the Scallops

  1. Dry Scallops: Use a paper towel to pat the scallops dry for the perfect golden sear.
  2. Season: Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper.
  3. Preheat Pan: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.


Step 2: Sear the Scallops

  1. Cook Scallops: Place scallops in the hot skillet, spaced apart, to avoid steaming.
  2. Sear to Perfection: Sear for 1-2 minutes per side, forming a golden crust.
  3. Butter Finish: Add butter to the pan in the final 30 seconds for extra flavor.


Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

  1. Melt Butter: In the same pan, reduce heat and melt the butter.
  2. Add Ingredients: Stir in lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 1 minute.
  3. Herb Finish: Add parsley or dill for an aromatic flourish.


Step 4: Plate Like a Pro

  1. Sauce Base: Spoon the lemon butter sauce onto a white plate.
  2. Arrange Scallops: Place three scallops on the sauce in a triangular formation.
  3. Garnish: Add microgreens, asparagus, and a lemon slice for a polished look.


Why You’ll Love This Dish

  • Restaurant-Quality at Home: Elevate your meal with minimal effort.
  • Perfect Flavor Balance: Rich butter complements the scallops’ sweetness.
  • Visually Stunning: Beautifully plated, this dish is sure to impress.


Master the art of Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter and transform your kitchen into a fine dining experience. With its elegant presentation and rich flavors, this recipe is a showstopper for any special occasion!