How to Make Lemon Butter Scallops at Home

Imagine biting into a perfectly seared scallop—crispy on the outside, tender and buttery on the inside, all coated in a silky lemon butter sauce. Lemon butter scallops are one of those restaurant-quality scallops dishes that seem intimidating, but they’re surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re making pan-seared scallops for a weeknight dinner or hosting a dinner party, this recipe brings the best flavors in under 15 minutes. Lemon butter scallops are perfect for impressing guests or satisfying your own cravings for something elegant yet simple.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast & Easy – Ready in under 15 minutes!
• Restaurant-Quality – Achieve a beautifully caramelized crust on your scallops.
• Minimal Ingredients – Only a handful of simple, high-quality ingredients.
• Versatile – Perfect as an appetizer or main dish.

Selecting the Best Scallops

The key to a great dish starts with high-quality scallops. Here’s what to look for:

1. Choose “Dry” Scallops

There are two types of scallops:

• Dry scallops – Pure, untreated, and caramelize beautifully.
• Wet scallops – Treated with preservatives, which makes them absorb water and prevents proper searing.

For the best results, always go for dry scallops. If you only find wet scallops, soak them in a lemon-water solution for 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.

2. Look for Freshness

Fresh scallops should have a mild, sweet scent. If they smell overly fishy, they’re past their prime. If buying frozen, ensure they are wild-caught and thaw them overnight in the fridge.

Ingredients for Lemon Butter Scallops

To make this dish, you’ll need:

• 1 pound of dry sea scallops
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

How to Perfectly Sear Scallops

Pat Dry the Scallops

Moisture is the enemy of a good sear. Use paper towels to thoroughly dry each scallop.

Season Just Before Cooking

Sprinkle with salt and pepper right before placing them in the pan. Salting too early can draw out moisture.

Use a Hot Pan

A cast iron skillet or stainless steel pan works best. Preheat the pan on medium-high heat and add olive oil to prevent the butter from burning.

Sear Without Moving

Place scallops in the pan, leaving space between them. Let them cook undisturbed for 1.5 to 2 minutes until a golden crust forms.

Flip and Add Butter

Turn the scallops over and add butter, garlic, and lemon zest. Spoon the melted butter over the scallops for extra flavor. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes.

Remove and Serve Immediately

Overcooked scallops become rubbery. Once they are opaque and slightly firm to the touch, remove them from the pan.

The Secret to the Best Lemon Butter Sauce

A rich, tangy lemon butter sauce takes these scallops to the next level. Here’s how to make it perfect:

• Balance Butter & Citrus: Too much butter makes it greasy, and too much lemon can be overpowering. The right balance creates a velvety sauce.
• Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Bottled juice lacks the brightness of fresh lemon.
• Garlic Infusion: Adding garlic to the butter enhances the depth of flavor.
• Deglaze the Pan: After removing the scallops, add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to scrape up the flavorful browned bits.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon butter scallops pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas:

• Garlic Parmesan Risotto – A creamy, flavorful contrast.
• Lemon Butter Pasta – Light and complementary.
• Steamed Asparagus – A fresh, crunchy contrast.
• Cauliflower Mash – A low-carb, buttery alternative to mashed potatoes.
• Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce.

For a complete experience, serve with a glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a buttery Chardonnay. The light acidity of Sauvignon Blanc balances the richness of the butter sauce.

Nutritional Value & Health Benefits

Scallops are an excellent source of lean protein, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to any diet.

Final Thoughts

Mastering lemon butter scallops is easier than you think. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can create a stunning dish in minutes. Whether you’re impressing guests or indulging yourself, this recipe is a must-try. Now, it’s your turn to sear like a pro!

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

1. How do I prevent scallops from sticking to the pan?

Use a well-heated pan and a mix of oil and butter. Make sure the scallops are completely dry before placing them in the pan. A stainless steel or cast iron pan works best for a proper sear.

2. Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge and pat them completely dry before cooking. Wet scallops won’t sear properly.

3. What can I substitute for butter if I want a dairy-free version?

You can use ghee, olive oil, or coconut oil. While you won’t get the same rich, buttery flavor, the lemon and garlic will still create a delicious sauce.