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13 Minute Lemon Butter Scallops Recipe Triumph

Lemon Butter Scallops

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Make restaurant-quality Lemon Butter Scallops fast. This recipe delivers perfectly seared scallops coated in a bright, simple lemon butter sauce. You will achieve amazing flavor in under 15 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large sea scallops
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Pat the scallops completely dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  3. Place the scallops in the hot pan, ensuring they do not touch. Sear for 2-3 minutes without moving them until a deep golden-brown crust forms.
  4. Flip the scallops. Add the butter to the pan. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the scallops are opaque throughout. Remove scallops from the pan and set aside.
  5. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the remaining butter and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Do not let the garlic burn.
  6. Pour in the white wine or broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the liquid reduce by half, about 1 minute.
  7. Stir in the fresh lemon juice. Taste the sauce and add more salt or pepper if needed.
  8. Return the scallops to the pan and toss gently to coat them in the sauce.
  9. Remove from heat immediately. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve right away.

Notes

  • Drying the scallops thoroughly is key to achieving a good sear. Moisture prevents browning.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright flavor.

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