The Juiciest Buttery Garlic Seared Scallops Recipe Ever Created

Buttery garlic seared scallops represent an elegant seafood delicacy that enhances simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish.

Marine proteins can be intimidating for home cooks, but these delicate morsels promise a surprisingly approachable culinary adventure.

Tender scallops practically melt in your mouth when prepared with careful technique and thoughtful seasoning.

Professional chefs understand the critical balance between achieving a golden-brown exterior and maintaining a succulent interior.

High heat and precise timing create a crisp caramelized crust that locks in extraordinary flavor profiles.

Minimal ingredients contribute maximum impact, allowing the natural sweetness of fresh scallops to shine through beautifully.

Quality matters immensely when selecting these delicate shellfish, so prioritize freshness and careful handling.

Prepare to elevate your dinner game with this luxurious yet straightforward seafood sensation.

Why Garlic Scallops Deserve the Spotlight

• Quickly Sear for Perfect Golden Crust: These scallops develop a stunning caramelized exterior through high-heat searing, creating a delightful crispy texture that locks in the delicate, sweet seafood flavor.
• Elevate with Garlic Butter Magic: The Land O Lakes® Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt transforms the dish, infusing rich, aromatic garlic notes that complement the scallops' natural sweetness and add luxurious depth.
• Foolproof Weeknight Gourmet Meal: With just 15 minutes of cooking time and minimal ingredients, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results that make home cooks feel like professional chefs without complicated techniques.
• Bright and Zesty Lemon Finish: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a vibrant, citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness of the butter and enhances the scallops' delicate marine flavor, creating a perfectly balanced bite.

Ingredients That Bring Out the Sea’s Sweetness

• Scallops: Fresh, large sea scallops with a sweet, delicate flavor and tender texture, preferably dry-packed for best searing results.

• Olive Oil: Helps create a perfect sear and adds a light, fruity undertone to the scallops.
• Land O Lakes® Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt: Provides rich, buttery flavor and helps create a silky sauce for the scallops.

• Salt and Pepper: Classic seasoning to enhance the natural sweetness of the scallops.
• Garlic: Adds a warm, pungent flavor that complements the delicate seafood.
• Lemon: Bright, citrusy juice that cuts through the richness and adds freshness to the dish.
• Parsley: Fresh herb that provides a pop of color and mild, herbaceous flavor.

• Pasta: Serves as a base for the scallops, creating a complete and satisfying meal.

How to Sear for That Golden Garlic Crust

Step 1: Prepare Scallops

Pat scallops dry using paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear Scallops

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil. Place scallops in the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Transfer scallops to a clean plate.

Step 3: Create Buttery Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, add Land O Lakes® Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt. Allow butter to melt completely. Add minced garlic and cook until aromatic, approximately 30 seconds.

Step 4: Add Citrus Brightness

Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the skillet. Gently return seared scallops to the pan, coating them with the buttery garlic sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the scallops. Plate the scallops on top of cooked pasta. Offer additional lemon slices on the side for extra zesty flavor.

Tips to Avoid Rubbery or Dry Scallops

• Ensure Dry Scallops: Pat scallops completely dry with paper towels to achieve a perfect golden-brown sear and prevent steaming.
• Control Heat Precisely: Use medium-high heat to create a beautiful caramelized crust without burning the delicate scallops.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Cook scallops in a single layer with space between them to maintain high skillet temperature and promote even browning.
• Select Fresh Scallops: Choose fresh, large sea scallops with a firm, slightly translucent appearance for the best texture and flavor.
• Quick Cooking is Key: Sear scallops for exactly 2-3 minutes per side to maintain their tender, buttery texture without becoming rubbery.

How to Store and Reheat Without Overcooking

• Refrigeration: Carefully transfer cooled scallops into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Seal tightly to prevent moisture loss and flavor absorption from other foods.
• Reheating: Gently warm scallops in a skillet over low heat with a small pat of butter, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Avoid overheating to prevent rubbery texture. Alternatively, use a microwave with 30-second intervals, checking frequently to maintain tenderness.
• Serving Tip: For best results, consume leftover scallops within 24 hours and pair with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon to revive their original vibrant flavor.

What to Plate Beside Buttery Scallops

• Elevate with Crisp Sauvignon Blanc: Pair the buttery garlic scallops with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand. Its bright acidity cuts through the richness of the butter and complements the delicate seafood flavor.
• Match with Herb-Roasted Asparagus: Create a perfect side dish of roasted asparagus seasoned with thyme and rosemary. The herbaceous notes will beautifully enhance the garlic and lemon in the scallop recipe.
• Serve Alongside Creamy Risotto: Prepare a light parmesan risotto to serve under the scallops. The creamy texture and subtle cheese flavor will provide a luxurious base that highlights the seafood's delicate taste.
• Add Crusty Sourdough Bread: Include warm, crusty sourdough bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce. Its tangy flavor and crisp texture will add an extra dimension to the meal.

Different Flavors to Butter Up Your Scallops

• Zesty Mediterranean Scallops: Replace butter with Greek olive oil, add crumbled feta cheese, and sprinkle oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired version.
• Spicy Cajun Seared Scallops: Coat scallops with Cajun seasoning before searing, use clarified butter, and add chopped andouille sausage for extra heat and flavor.
• Herb-Infused Coastal Scallops: Incorporate fresh thyme and rosemary into the butter sauce, finish with a splash of white wine, and garnish with chives for an elevated coastal experience.
• Asian-Inspired Ginger Scallops: Swap lemon juice with rice vinegar, add minced ginger and a touch of soy sauce, then garnish with green onions for an Asian-inspired seafood dish.

Buttery Garlic Seared Scallops Recipe

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4.7 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 2 1x

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Description

Buttery Garlic Seared Scallops showcase oceanic elegance with golden-crusted medallions kissed by fragrant garlic. Delicate seafood meets rich butter in this simple yet sophisticated French-inspired dish promising restaurant-quality flavor that will dazzle dinner guests.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb (454 g) sea scallops
• 3 tablespoons (45 ml) Land O Lakes® Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt

Seasonings:

• ½ teaspoon (2.5 g) salt
• ¼ teaspoon (1.25 g) black pepper
• 2 teaspoons (10 g) garlic, minced

Additional Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
• 1 medium lemon (juice of half, slice remaining half)
• 1 tablespoon (15 g) parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Thoroughly blot fresh scallops using clean paper towels, ensuring surfaces are completely moisture-free. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
2. Preheat a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Add extra virgin olive oil, creating a uniform coating across the pan’s surface.
3. Carefully place seasoned scallops into the hot skillet, allowing each piece adequate space. Sear for approximately 2 to 3 minutes per side, developing a rich golden-brown crust while maintaining a tender interior.
4. Transfer perfectly seared scallops to a clean serving plate, keeping them warm and preserving their delicate texture.
5. In the same skillet, melt of butter with olive oil and sea salt, creating a luxurious base. Immediately add minced fresh garlic, stirring continuously for 30 seconds until aromatic.
6. Squeeze fresh lemon juice from half a citrus fruit directly into the butter-garlic mixture, creating a vibrant pan sauce.
7. Gently return seared scallops to the skillet, coating them with the fragrant lemon-garlic butter sauce. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley for added color and brightness.
8. Plate the scallops over prepared linguine or your preferred pasta, garnishing with additional lemon wedges for guests to customize their dish.

Notes

• Choose fresh, dry-packed scallops for the best sear and avoid watery, pre-treated scallops that won’t develop a golden-brown crust.
• Pat scallops completely dry with paper towels to ensure maximum caramelization and prevent steaming instead of searing.
• Use a heavy-bottomed skillet like cast iron or stainless steel to create even, high heat for perfect golden-brown edges.
• Cook scallops for precisely 2-3 minutes per side to maintain their delicate, tender texture without becoming rubbery.
• Add fresh garlic and lemon juice at the end to brighten the rich, buttery flavor without overwhelming the scallops’ natural sweetness.
• Serve immediately over warm pasta or with a side of roasted vegetables to complement the seafood’s delicate taste.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Searing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2
• Calories: 330 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 660 mg
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg