Are you dreaming of a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant price tag? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe brings you the elegance and flavor of a dish you might find at one of Chef Wolfgang Puck's renowned restaurants, but it's surprisingly easy to make at home. Get ready to impress yourself and your guests with these perfectly seared scallops bathed in a luscious lemon butter sauce. This recipe is perfect for a romantic dinner, a special occasion, or simply a delicious weeknight meal. It's one of those quick dinner ideas that delivers big on flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large sea scallops, patted dry
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Scallops
Pat the scallops dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a beautiful sear. Season them generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Scallops
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the scallops and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary. Remove the scallops from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pan
Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds incredible depth of flavor to the sauce. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, until slightly reduced.
Step 5: Finish the Sauce
Stir in the chopped parsley. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Return the seared scallops to the skillet and toss gently to coat them in the lemon butter sauce. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or simply enjoy them on their own.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Scallops:
- Dry Scallops are Key: Thoroughly patting the scallops dry is essential for achieving a good sear. Excess moisture will prevent browning.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and result in steaming instead of searing.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked scallops will be tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they are opaque and slightly firm to the touch.
Variations:
- Add Some Spice: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Herbs Galore: Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme, oregano, or chives.
- Citrus Twist: Substitute some of the lemon juice with lime juice for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This easy recipe for seared scallops with lemon butter sauce is a testament to the fact that delicious dishes don't have to be complicated. It's a great example of homemade cooking at its finest – a quick, healthy meal that's sure to impress. Enjoy!