Imagine perfectly seared sea scallops, buttery and golden on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, drizzled with a mouthwatering garlic lemon butter sauce. Sound heavenly? That’s because it is! These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops with a Zesty Lemon Twist are the ultimate seafood dish that’s simple, elegant, and bursting with flavor.

Whether you’re cooking a romantic dinner for two, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself to something delicious, this recipe is a total showstopper. Ready to impress your taste buds and everyone at the table? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Fall in Love with Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

If you’ve never cooked scallops before, don’t worry—they’re much easier than you might think! Here’s why you’ll absolutely love this recipe:

• Quick and easy: Ready in just 20 minutes.
• Rich and flavorful: A perfect balance of garlic butter and zesty lemon.
• Restaurant-quality at home: Perfect for special occasions or any night of the week.
• Healthy and light: Scallops are packed with protein and low in fat.
• Minimal ingredients: You only need a handful of kitchen staples.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to create this simple yet luxurious dish:

For the Scallops

Ingredient	Quantity
Unsalted butter	1 tablespoon
Sea scallops	1 pound
Kosher salt	To taste
Freshly ground black pepper	To taste

For the Lemon Butter Sauce

Ingredient	Quantity
Unsalted butter	2 tablespoons
Garlic (minced)	3 cloves
Freshly squeezed lemon juice	3 tablespoons
Kosher salt	To taste
Freshly ground black pepper	To taste
Chopped fresh parsley leaves	2 tablespoons (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Scallops

Follow these easy steps to create Garlic Butter Baked Scallops with a Zesty Lemon Twist that will have everyone begging for seconds.

1. Prep the Scallops

Before you cook, it’s important to prep your scallops properly.

1. Remove the small side muscle (a little tag of tissue) from each scallop. This part can be tough and chewy when cooked.
2. Rinse the scallops under cold water to clean them.
3. Thoroughly pat them dry with paper towels. Dry scallops are essential for achieving a golden, crispy sear.
4. Season both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste.

2. Sear the Scallops

1. Melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. A cast iron skillet works best because it retains heat evenly.
2. Once the butter starts to sizzle, add the scallops to the skillet in a single layer. Make sure they’re not overcrowded. If needed, cook in batches.
3. Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, flipping only once. You’re looking for a golden-brown crust on the outside while keeping the centers tender and translucent.
4. Once cooked, transfer the scallops to a plate and cover them lightly with foil to keep warm.

3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

The sauce is where all the magic happens. It’s rich, tangy, and perfectly complements the scallops.

1. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and stir for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it simmer gently for about 30 seconds to combine all the flavors.

4. Serve the Scallops with the Sauce

1. Return the seared scallops to the skillet and spoon the lemon butter sauce over the top.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley leaves for a burst of color and freshness (optional).
3. Serve the scallops immediately while they’re warm and tender.

Pro Tips for Cooking Perfect Scallops

1. Use fresh or high-quality frozen scallops: Fresh scallops taste the best, but frozen scallops work well too—just make sure they’re completely thawed and dried.
2. Don’t skip drying the scallops: Excess moisture prevents that beautiful golden sear.
3. Avoid overcooking: Scallops cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. Overcooked scallops turn rubbery and tough.
4. High heat is key: A hot skillet ensures the scallops develop a crispy, caramelized crust.
5. Enhance the flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick or zest some lemon peel into the sauce for an extra layer of brightness.

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

These scallops pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:

• Pasta: Serve the scallops over a bed of angel hair pasta or linguine to soak up the lemon butter sauce.
• Rice: A light, fluffy rice pilaf complements the rich flavor of the scallops.
• Vegetables: Try roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or steamed broccoli.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
• Crusty bread: Use warm, crusty bread to mop up every drop of that delicious sauce!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutrition per serving of garlic butter baked scallops:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	220-250
Protein	22g
Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	5g
Sodium	500mg

FAQs About Garlic Butter Baked Scallops with a Zesty Lemon Twist

1. Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before cooking.

2. How do I know when the scallops are done?
Cooked scallops are firm yet tender, with an opaque, milky-white center. They should feel springy to the touch.

3. Can I substitute the lemon juice with something else?
If you’re out of lemons, try lime juice or white wine for a slightly different twist.

4. How do I reheat leftover scallops?
Reheat them gently in a skillet over low heat with a little butter to avoid overcooking. Avoid the microwave, as it can make them rubbery.

5. What’s the difference between sea scallops and bay scallops?
Sea scallops are larger, meatier, and perfect for searing, while bay scallops are smaller and ideal for stews or pastas.

6. Can I add other herbs to the sauce?
Absolutely! Fresh thyme, chives, or basil work well with the lemon garlic butter sauce.

Conclusion: A Simple Yet Elegant Seafood Dish

These Garlic Butter Baked Scallops with a Zesty Lemon Twist are proof that a fancy, restaurant-quality dish doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll create a meal that’s as impressive as it is delicious.

Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner, a special occasion, or just treating yourself, these buttery scallops with their tangy lemon twist will never disappoint. Give this recipe a try tonight, and savor every flavorful bite!

Print