Scallops with Lemon Butter – A Quick and Delicious Seafood Delight
If you’re in the mood for a simple yet flavorful seafood dish, Scallops with Lemon Butter is just the recipe you need. This easy-to-make dish offers the perfect balance of savory, buttery goodness with a zesty kick of fresh lemon. In just 20 minutes, you can create a dish that’s both impressive and satisfying, whether served as a main course or as a side to complement your favorite seafood platter.
Ingredients:
This recipe requires only a handful of ingredients, each bringing out the natural sweetness of the scallops and creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Below is the complete list of ingredients for Scallops with Lemon Butter:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh scallops | 1 1/2 pounds |
| Unsalted butter | 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ground black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1/8 teaspoon |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 1 tablespoon |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 436.9 kcal |
| Total Fat | 25.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 15 g |
| Cholesterol | 117.3 mg |
| Sodium | 732.2 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 19.7 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 1.6 g |
| Protein | 31.6 g |
This recipe serves 4 people and can easily be adjusted based on your needs.
Instructions:
Creating Scallops with Lemon Butter is a straightforward process that involves breading the scallops, sautéing them to perfection, and then finishing them off with a rich, buttery sauce. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this dish:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Prepare the scallops: Start by rolling the fresh scallops in breadcrumbs until they are fully coated. This will help create a crispy exterior when sautéed. |
| 2 | Melt the butter: In a skillet, melt half of the unsalted butter over medium-low heat, ensuring it melts evenly. |
| 3 | Season the butter: Once the butter has melted, stir in the salt, black pepper, and paprika to infuse the flavors into the base of your sauce. |
| 4 | Sauté the scallops: Gently place the breaded scallops in the skillet. Cook for 7 to 9 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure they are golden brown on all sides. |
| 5 | Remove and keep warm: Once the scallops are cooked to a golden brown, remove them from the skillet and place them on a heated serving dish. Keep them warm. |
| 6 | Prepare the lemon butter sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Once melted, stir in the chopped fresh parsley and the fresh lemon juice. |
| 7 | Serve: Pour the lemon butter sauce over the scallops. Serve immediately with a side of rice, vegetables, or your favorite seafood accompaniment. |
Serving Suggestions:
Scallops with Lemon Butter can be paired with a variety of side dishes for a complete meal. Consider serving them with:
- Steamed rice: The mild flavor of the rice complements the rich buttery sauce.
- Roasted vegetables: Asparagus, zucchini, or roasted Brussels sprouts would be excellent choices to balance the richness of the scallops.
- Garlic bread: A slice of crispy garlic bread to soak up the lemon butter sauce adds a delightful touch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: With a total cooking time of just 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties.
- Flavorful: The combination of crispy scallops and the bright, tangy lemon butter sauce makes for a perfectly balanced dish.
- Elegant Yet Simple: Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a casual meal, this dish elevates any table without requiring extensive culinary skills.
- Healthy: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this recipe offers a satisfying meal without the guilt.
Additional Tips:
- Choosing the right scallops: Fresh, high-quality scallops are essential for the best flavor. Look for dry-packed scallops (not treated with preservatives) for the freshest taste.
- Breading variation: For a twist, you can use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Butter substitute: If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the butter with olive oil, although the flavor may be slightly different.
This Scallops with Lemon Butter recipe from Love With Recipes is a must-try for any seafood lover. Quick to make and bursting with flavor, it’s the perfect way to enjoy the delicate taste of scallops in a rich, buttery sauce. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to impress!
