Indulge in a culinary journey with our Citrus Kissed Seared Scallops, where tender sea jewels meet a symphony of flavors. Elevate your dining experience with this exquisite dish, marrying the delicate sweetness of perfectly seared scallops with a zesty lemon butter garlic sauce, infused with aromatic herbs. Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated soirée or simply treating yourself to a gourmet delight, this recipe promises to captivate your taste buds and leave a lasting impression. Join us as we embark on a gastronomic adventure, celebrating the essence of coastal cuisine.
Recipe:
Seared Scallops with Herb-Infused Lemon Butter
Ingredients:
- 1 1/4 lb fresh sea scallops, side muscles removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or canola oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh chives
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Begin by preparing the scallops. Ensure they are thoroughly dry by patting them with paper towels. Season with a pinch of salt just before cooking.
- In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt, ensuring the fat is hot but not smoking.
- Carefully add the scallops to the pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Sear the scallops for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust. Work in batches if necessary. Once seared, transfer the scallops to a plate and set aside.
- Using the same skillet, lower the heat to medium-low. Add the remaining butter and allow it to melt. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, approximately 1 minute.
- Pour in the fresh lemon juice, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate them into the sauce. Allow the sauce to simmer for a minute, infusing it with the flavors of garlic and lemon.
- Return the seared scallops to the skillet, gently tossing them in the lemon butter sauce. Sprinkle the chopped parsley, thyme, and chives over the scallops, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Cook the scallops for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors of the sauce and herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the scallops are heated through and the sauce has slightly thickened, remove the skillet from the heat.
- Serve the Citrus Kissed Seared Scallops immediately, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired. Accompany with your choice of side dishes, such as angel hair pasta or roasted asparagus, to complete the culinary experience.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
Calories: 297 kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Cholesterol: 69mg | Sodium: 792mg | Potassium: 382mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 725IU | Vitamin C: 13mg | Calcium: 31mg | Iron: 1mg
*Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
Conclusion:
Celebrate the art of cooking with our Citrus Kissed Seared Scallops, a testament to the beauty of simplicity and the power of premium ingredients. From the moment you take your first bite, you’ll be transported to coastal shores, where the sea meets the sky in a harmony of flavors. With every succulent morsel enveloped in herb-infused lemon butter, this dish is a true culinary masterpiece, deserving of the finest occasions and the most discerning palates. Embrace the elegance of coastal cuisine and savor the symphony of sensations that await in every bite.
image source : Small Town Woman
