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Lemon Herb Butter Seared Scallops

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  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Total Time: 13 minutes
  • Yield: 24 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-Seared
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Succulent scallops seared to golden perfection and bathed in a bright, buttery lemon-herb sauce—elegant, quick, and restaurant-worthy at home.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 450500g large sea scallops, well pat dried
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or neutral cooking oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 12 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or chives)

Instructions

  1. Pat scallops dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  3. Place scallops flat-side down and sear without moving for 2–3 minutes until a golden crust forms.
  4. Flip scallops and sear the other side for 1–2 minutes until just firm and opaque.
  5. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter and garlic, swirling to melt and sauté briefly.
  6. Stir in lemon juice, zest, and chopped herbs.
  7. Spoon the sauce over scallops and serve immediately with extra sauce and optional garnish.

Notes

  • Ensure scallops are dry to achieve a good sear.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain heat.
  • Scallops cook quickly; avoid overcooking to prevent toughness.
  • Best served fresh; reheating can affect texture.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/2 of recipe
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 380mg
  • Fat: 13g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 21g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg