Perfectly Seared Scallops Recipe

Perfectly Seared Scallops Recipe

Seared scallops are a gourmet delight that can be easily prepared at home. Their tender texture and rich, buttery flavor make them an impressive dish for any occasion. Here’s a simple recipe to achieve perfectly seared scallops with a delicious garlic butter sauce.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) large sea scallops
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Scallops:
   • Pat the scallops dry with paper towels. This is crucial to getting a good sear. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the Pan:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering but not smoking.
3. Sear the Scallops:
   • Carefully place the scallops in the hot skillet, making sure they are not touching. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust. Do not move them while they are searing.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
   • Once the scallops are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant.
   • If using, add the white wine to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and the sauce to slightly reduce.
5. Combine and Garnish:
   • Return the seared scallops to the skillet, spooning the garlic butter sauce over them. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to heat through.
   • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Tips for Success:

• Dry Scallops: Make sure your scallops are as dry as possible before searing. This helps achieve a perfect crust.
• High Heat: Use high heat to sear the scallops quickly, ensuring they are golden brown on the outside while remaining tender inside.
• Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the scallops in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause steaming instead of searing.

Keywords:

• Seared scallops
• Garlic butter scallops
• How to cook scallops
• Seafood recipe
• Pan-seared scallops
• Easy scallops recipe
• Gourmet seafood dish
• Scallops with garlic butter
• Restaurant-style scallops
• Scallops with white wine sauce

This recipe for perfectly seared scallops with a garlic butter sauce is sure to impress your guests and make any meal feel special. Enjoy the rich and savory flavors of this elegant seafood dish!