Description
Deliciously seared sea scallops topped with a garlic herb butter, perfect for a fancy dinner!
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 large sea scallops (approximately 1 lb, fresh or thawed, side muscle removed)
- 1 tsp sea salt (for seasoning)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 2 tbsp salted butter (softened)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced finely)
- 1/2 tbsp fresh thyme (leaves only, stems removed)
- 1/2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, plus extra for garnish)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, lemon juice, minced garlic, thyme leaves, and chopped parsley. Mash everything together with a fork until well combined. Set aside.
- Remove any side muscles from the scallops (small tough tabs on one side).
- Pat each scallop completely dry with paper towels on both sides. This is crucial for getting a good sear.
- Season both sides of the scallops with salt and pepper just before cooking.
- Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
- Carefully place the scallops in the hot pan in a single layer with space between each one. Do not move them. Let them sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until they develop a deep golden-brown crust and release naturally from the pan.
- Flip each scallop over and immediately add spoonfuls of the garlic herb butter around them in the pan.
- As the butter melts, tilt the pan and use a spoon to baste the scallops with the butter. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the second side develops a golden crust and the scallops are opaque and firm but still slightly tender in the center (internal temperature should reach 115°F).
- Transfer the scallops to plates immediately to prevent overcooking. Spoon the garlic butter over each portion and garnish with extra fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
Notes
- Ensure scallops are dried completely for the best sear.
- Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 scallops
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg