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Delicious pan-seared scallops topped with flavorful lemon garlic butter.

Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Garlic Butter

A quick and elegant dish featuring scallops seared to perfection and served in a rich lemon garlic butter sauce.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Seafood
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb large sea scallops (dry-packed)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley
  • Salt & freshly cracked black pepper
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
Cooking
  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Sear scallops for 2–3 minutes per side until they form a light crust.
  3. Reduce heat to low, add butter and garlic, stirring until fragrant.
  4. Add lemon juice and zest, then return the scallops to the pan to soak in the sauce.
  5. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

Serve the scallops immediately while they are hot, and spoon extra lemon garlic butter over them. They pair well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad.