Description

These Easy Garlic-Lemon Scallops are a fast, elegant, and flavor-packed seafood dish featuring golden-seared sea scallops in a zesty garlic-lemon butter sauce. Ready in just 15 minutes, this gluten-free recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a stunning appetizer!

Ingredients

3/4 cup butter
3 tbsp minced garlic
2 lbs large sea scallops
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp salt

1/8 tsp pepper

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Instructions

Prepare the Scallops: Pat scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this helps them sear properly.
Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt ½ cup of butter. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Sear the Scallops: Raise heat to medium-high. Season scallops with salt and pepper. Sear in the skillet for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and opaque. Avoid overcrowding.
Make the Sauce: Remove scallops from skillet. Add remaining ¼ cup butter and lemon juice to the pan, scraping any browned bits. Stir to combine.
Combine: Return scallops to skillet, spoon sauce over, and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes to coat and warm through.

Serve: Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges or over pasta, rice, or veggies.

Notes

For a creamy version, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream with the butter and lemon juice.
Add red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a boost of flavor.

Serve with crusty bread to soak up the buttery sauce or pair with white wine for a restaurant-style dinner.