Ready in: 15 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Searing · Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.
Quick Answer
For a luxurious yet quick dish, sear scallops to golden perfection and finish them in a creamy lemon garlic sauce.
As the crisp autumn air starts to settle in New York City and holiday plans begin to take shape, I can't help but think about how to impress family and friends with effortless yet elegant dishes. One standout recipe that has become a staple in my kitchen for those festive gatherings is Creamy Lemon Garlic Scallops. This dish not only brings a touch of sophistication to the table but also takes mere minutes to prepare, leaving ample time for savoring the season's festivities.
A Festive Delight
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Impress your guests with a sophisticated dish that tastes as good as it looks.
- Quick preparation time means more time to enjoy holiday festivities.
- Minimal ingredients come together to create a rich and flavorful sauce.
- Perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home.
- The fragrant aroma of garlic and lemon will fill your kitchen and delight everyone.
Ingredients
To make these luscious scallops, you'll need:
Produce
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- The juice and zest of one lemon
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped
Seafood
- 1 pound of large sea scallops, patted dry
Dairy
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- ½ cup of heavy cream
Pantry Staples
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Creamy Lemon Garlic Scallops (Step-by-Step)
This dish is as simple as it is delicious, and perfect for impressing your guests.
Step 1: Sear the Scallops
First, take your large sea scallops and ensure they are patted dry - this is key to achieving a beautiful golden crust. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, gently place the scallops in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on one side until a golden crust forms; resist the urge to move them around for that perfect sear. Flip them over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they're just opaque in the center. The sweet, nutty aroma drifting through the kitchen will have everyone eagerly anticipating dinner.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Sauce
Next, add the butter to the pan, allowing it to melt and baste the scallops. Add the minced garlic, and watch as it turns fragrant, releasing an irresistible aroma. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the lemon juice and zest, allowing it to bubble gently. The sauce should thicken slightly, creating a luscious coating; whisk until the mixture is glossy and a bit creamy. This step should only take a couple of minutes, and the happiness of indulging in this creamy sauce is absolutely worth the wait.
Step 3: Serve
Once the sauce has come together, gently nestle the scallops back into the pan, spooning some of that creamy goodness over them. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving immediately with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of fragrant rice to soak up every last drop.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not drying the scallops: Moisture will prevent a good sear; make sure they're patted dry thoroughly.
- Overcrowding the skillet: Cook in batches if necessary; this ensures each scallop gets that perfect golden exterior.
- Rushing the sauce: Allow the sauce to come together slowly; the flavors meld beautifully with a little patience.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For an added depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- If you want to enhance the lemon flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the pan after the garlic has sautéed; let it reduce before adding the cream.
- Serve immediately for the best texture; scallops can become rubbery when reheated.
Variations
- Substitute olive oil with avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
- Use seafood broth instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Incorporate mushrooms or spinach for added texture and nutrition.
How to Serve
- Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Place over a bed of fragrant rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.
- Garnish with additional fresh parsley or lemon slices for a pop of color.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: The sauce can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use. Simply reheat gently.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat to preserve texture.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as scallops do not hold up well once frozen.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
This dish beautifully encapsulates the elegance of seafood, proving that a few high-quality ingredients can transform a meal. I've learned that the secret to perfect scallops lies in their freshness and handling; treat them with care, and they will shine on your holiday table.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: ¼ of the recipe
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~320 calories · 25g protein · 8g carbs · 20g fat
Recipe by:
Elegant Creamy Lemon Garlic Scallops
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season scallops on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear scallops for 2-3 minutes on one side until golden.
- Flip scallops and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until opaque. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Add butter to the skillet, melt, then add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest, allowing to bubble gently.
- Return scallops to the pan, spoon sauce over them, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
FAQs
What type of scallops should I use for this recipe?
For the best results, use large sea scallops. They have a sweet flavor and a firm texture that holds up well during cooking.
Can I make Creamy Lemon Garlic Scallops in advance?
While it's best to serve scallops immediately for optimal texture, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. However, I do not recommend reheating the scallops as they can become rubbery.
What can I serve with Creamy Lemon Garlic Scallops?
This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread to soak up the sauce or over a bed of fragrant rice. You can also serve it alongside seasonal vegetables for a complete meal.
