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golden pan seared garlic butter scallops in a cast iron
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Garlic Butter Scallops

Cooked in 6 minutes, this Garlic Butter Scallops Recipe is the perfect quick dinner. Easy enough for a weeknight meal but fancy enough for entertaining guests! Make this healthy scallop recipe with just 7 simple ingredients.
Course dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword Garlic Butter Scallops, Scallops
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
0 minutes
Total Time 11 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 263kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 lb fresh large scallops* removed the side muscle
  • Coarse salt and ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 tbsp butter or ghee for Whole30 and paleo
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tsp freshly chopped parsley
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

  • Remove the scallops from the fridge about 30 minutes to 1 hour before cooking.
  • Place them on a paper towel-lined cutting board and pat them dry with paper towels.
  • Season well all sides of the scallops with coarse salt and set aside.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the scallops in a single layer. Please, don’t over crowd the skillet and if it’s necessary, work in batches.
  • Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side. They will be golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set it aside.
  • Add the butter, garlic, fresh parsley and lemon juice. Saute for 1-2 minutes and add the scallops back to the pan and heat through. Enjoy immediately!

Notes

  • If scallops are frozen, thaw in cold water before using.
  • Make sure the scallops are dry before you sear them. You won't get a nice crust with moisture on the scallops.
  • I love the sear I get from using a cast iron skillet and highly recommend you use one.
  • These garlic butter scallops are done in about six minutes, so keep a close eye to avoid overcooking. 
  • To store: Scallops are best enjoyed fresh but you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  • To reheat: Gently reheat the scallops on the stovetop. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1/4 | Calories: 263kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 77mg | Sodium: 904mg | Potassium: 372mg