Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce and Pasta
Ingredients:

12 large sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil

3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)

Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tbsp)

Zest of 1 lemon

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

200g (7 oz) cooked pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine works well)

Lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare scallops: Pat scallops dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Cook pasta: Prepare pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sear scallops: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add scallops in a single layer without overcrowding. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and slightly crusty. Remove scallops from skillet and set aside.

Make lemon butter sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons butter and minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in white wine (if using) and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Finish sauce: Stir in remaining tablespoon of butter and lemon zest. Add chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine: Toss cooked pasta in the lemon butter sauce until coated. Plate pasta, then top with seared scallops.

Garnish: Add lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top.

Seafood lovers rejoice! Dive into this delectable dish that's a breeze to whip up!

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Ingredients:
- 1 lb scallops
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper

Preparation Steps:
1. Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper thoroughly.
3. Arrange the scallops neatly in a baking dish, then drizzle the garlic butter mixture generously over the top.
4. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumbs across the scallops for that perfect crispy texture.
5. For a zesty touch, squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the scallops are opaque and the breadcrumbs are a beautiful golden brown.
7. Before serving, garnish with the freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and flavor!

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cooking Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 25 mins
Calories: 250 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings

Suggested Pairings: This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and some crusty bread for a delightful meal experience!

#seafoodrecipes #bakedscallops #deliciousdinner

Looking for a delicious seafood dish to impress?

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) scallops
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving

Preparation Steps:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 2 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in breadcrumbs, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Place the scallops on a baking dish and spoon the garlic butter mixture over each scallop.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until the scallops are opaque and cooked through.
7. Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side.

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cooking Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 25 mins
Calories: 220 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings

Suggested Pairings: Serve with garlic bread and a green salad for a complete meal.

#seafoodlover #scallops #deliciousdinner