Get ready to indulge in a dish that’s as elegant as it is delicious! These Lemon-Glazed Seared Scallops are the perfect balance of buttery richness and zesty citrus, creating a flavor explosion with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to a special meal, this recipe will elevate your seafood game and leave your taste buds craving more!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh sea scallops (about 12-16, patted dry)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the scallops: Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps them sear nicely. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat the pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until hot. Add the scallops to the pan in a single layer (don’t overcrowd the pan; you may need to do this in batches). Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The scallops should develop a nice, crispy sear on the outside and be opaque in the center. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
- Make the lemon glaze: In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the liquids: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir in the honey (if using) to balance the acidity of the lemon. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it slightly reduces and thickens.
- Combine the scallops and glaze: Return the seared scallops to the skillet and gently toss them in the lemon glaze for 1-2 minutes, allowing the scallops to soak in the delicious lemony butter sauce.
- Serve: Plate the scallops, drizzle with the remaining glaze from the pan, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for extra tanginess.
Tips:
- To keep the scallops perfectly seared, ensure the pan is hot before adding the scallops and avoid overcrowding the pan.
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze if you like a bit of heat.
- Serve with a side of rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
This Lemon-Glazed Seared Scallops recipe is fresh, buttery, and tangy with a rich citrus glaze that enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops! Enjoy!
