As a traveler who has spent years chasing the sunset across various coastlines, I find that nothing captures the essence of the ocean quite like Lemon Garlic Scallops. This dish represents the perfect harmony between the rugged sea and the sun-drenched orchards of the Mediterranean. When you prepare Lemon Garlic Scallops, you are not just making a meal; you are recreating a sensory journey I first experienced in a small seaside shack in Amalfi.
The texture is buttery and tender, while the flavor profile offers a sharp, citrusy brightness that dances across your palate. Achieving the perfect golden crust requires patience, but the result is a sophisticated masterpiece that takes less than fifteen minutes to cook. Let these Lemon Garlic Scallops transport your kitchen to the edge of a turquoise shore.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Garlic Scallops Recipe
- Gourmet Flavor in Minutes: You can achieve restaurant-quality Lemon Garlic Scallops in under 15 minutes, making it the perfect choice for an elegant weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
- Perfectly Balanced Nutrition: These scallops are packed with lean protein and essential minerals while remaining low in calories and carbohydrates.
- Sensory Texture: The contrast between the crispy, caramelized exterior and the melt-in-your-mouth center creates a world-class dining experience.
- Versatile Pairing: The bright acidity of the lemon and the depth of the garlic allow this dish to pair beautifully with everything from light salads to hearty grains.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create the most authentic Lemon Garlic Scallops, ingredient quality is paramount. I always recommend seeking out “dry-packed” scallops. Unlike “wet” scallops, which are treated with preservatives that cause them to release excess water, dry-packed scallops sear beautifully and maintain their natural sweetness.
The butter should be high-quality and unsalted to allow you full control over the seasoning. Fresh garlic is non-negotiable; bottled minced garlic lacks the pungent, spicy oils needed to truly elevate the Lemon Garlic Scallops to greatness.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
| Large Sea Scallops | 1 Pound | Dry-packed, side muscle removed. |
| Unsalted Butter | 2 Tablespoons | Provides a rich, nutty flavor during basting. |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1 Tablespoon | Used for its high smoke point and fruitiness. |
| Fresh Garlic | 3 Cloves | Thinly sliced or minced for maximum infusion. |
| Fresh Lemon Juice | 1 Whole Lemon | Adds the essential bright acidity. |
| Fresh Parsley | 2 Tablespoons | Finely chopped for a herbaceous finish. |
| Sea Salt & Black Pepper | To Taste | Enhances the natural sweetness of the seafood. |
| Lemon Zest | 1 Teaspoon | Provides an extra punch of citrus aroma. |
Substitutions & Variations
Note: This video is for demonstration purposes and may use a slightly different method.
In my travels, I have learned that a recipe is merely a map, and you are the explorer. If you want to make these Lemon Garlic Scallops even healthier, you can swap the butter for ghee or a high-quality avocado oil. Ghee still provides that rich, toasted flavor but is lactose-free and has a higher smoke point.
For those looking for a different citrus profile, try using Meyer lemons, which are sweeter and less acidic than traditional lemons. If you want a bit of heat, I often sprinkle a pinch of red chili flakes into the garlic butter to give the Lemon Garlic Scallops an adventurous kick.
For a dairy-free version, a vegan butter substitute or simply more olive oil works wonderfully. You could also replace the parsley with fresh cilantro or dill to change the cultural flair of the dish, moving it from the Mediterranean toward a more Nordic or Latin flavor profile.
For those looking to explore more lemon-infused dishes, consider trying Lemon Garlic Grilled Cod. This delicious alternative provides a similar flavor profile while offering a unique twist on your seafood experience, which you will find in more detail here.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Scallops: Remove the scallops from the refrigerator about 15 minutes before cooking. Use a paper towel to pat them completely dry. This is the most crucial step for your Lemon Garlic Scallops; moisture is the enemy of a good sear. Remove the small, tough side muscle if it is still attached.
- Season: Generously season both sides of the scallops with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Do this just before they hit the pan to prevent the salt from drawing out moisture.
- Heat the Pan: Place a large cast-iron or stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil. Wait until the oil is shimmering and just starting to smoke. A hot pan is essential for the Lemon Garlic Scallops to develop a crust.
- The First Sear: Carefully place the scallops in the pan, ensuring they do not touch each other. If your pan is small, work in batches. Press down gently with a spatula to ensure even contact. Let them sear undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until a deep golden-brown crust forms.
- The Flip: Flip the scallops over. They should release easily from the pan. If they stick, give them another 30 seconds.
- The Aromatics: Immediately add the butter and the minced garlic to the empty spaces in the pan. As the butter melts and foams, tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the Lemon Garlic Scallops with the garlic-infused butter for about 1 minute.
- The Finish: Turn off the heat. Squeeze the fresh lemon juice over the scallops and sprinkle with the lemon zest and fresh parsley. The residual heat will cook the scallops through without making them rubbery.
- Serve: Plate the Lemon Garlic Scallops immediately, drizzling the remaining pan sauce over the top.
Pro Tips for Success
Achieving the perfect Lemon Garlic Scallops is an art form that relies on temperature and timing. First, never crowd the pan. If you put too many scallops in at once, the temperature of the skillet will drop, and the scallops will steam in their own juices instead of searing.
This results in a rubbery texture and a grey appearance. Second, use a high-smoke-point oil like avocado or light olive oil for the initial sear, and save the butter for the end. Butter contains milk solids that burn quickly at high temperatures; by adding it later, you get the flavor without the bitterness of burnt fat.
Third, trust your eyes. The Lemon Garlic Scallops are done when they are opaque throughout but still have a slight “give” when pressed. Overcooking is the most common mistake, so keep a close watch.
Pair your perfectly cooked Lemon Garlic Scallops with a refreshing drink like a Strawberry Lemonade Mocktail. This delightful beverage complements the dish beautifully, adding a sweet and citrusy balance that enhances your dining experience, and you can find the recipe here.
Storage & Reheating Tips
While Lemon Garlic Scallops are best enjoyed immediately after they leave the pan, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, be aware that the delicate texture will change slightly as they sit. To reheat, I recommend avoiding the microwave at all costs, as it will turn your beautiful scallops into rubber balls.
Instead, heat a small amount of butter or oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Place the Lemon Garlic Scallops in the pan just long enough to warm them through—usually about one minute per side. This gentle method preserves the integrity of the seafood and keeps the garlic and lemon flavors vibrant.
What to Serve With This Recipe
When deciding what to pair with your Lemon Garlic Scallops, think about textures and flavors that will complement rather than overpower. A crisp, light salad with a champagne vinaigrette is a classic choice that echoes the citrus notes of the dish. For a more substantial meal, serve the Lemon Garlic Scallops over a bed of cauliflower rice or quinoa to soak up that glorious garlic butter sauce.
Roasted asparagus or sautéed baby spinach provides a vibrant green contrast and a boost of nutrients. If you want to stick to my traveler roots, try serving them alongside a simple pasta aglio e olio, where the garlic flavors can harmonize across the entire plate. No matter what you choose, ensure the side dish remains light enough to let the Lemon Garlic Scallops remain the star of the show.
To round out your meal, consider serving the Lemon Garlic Scallops alongside Grilled Lemon Garlic Fish. This pairing not only continues the citrus theme but also creates a dynamic flavor experience that will impress anyone at the table; discover how to make it here.
FAQs
Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops to make Lemon Garlic Scallops, but they must be thawed completely in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, it is even more important to pat them extremely dry with paper towels. Frozen scallops often hold more moisture, so you must be diligent to ensure you still get that signature golden sear.
What is the difference between bay scallops and sea scallops?
Sea scallops, which are used in this Lemon Garlic Scallops recipe, are much larger and have a more substantial, meaty texture. Bay scallops are tiny and much sweeter but cook very quickly. If you choose to use bay scallops, reduce the searing time to about 60 seconds per side so they do not become overcooked and tough.
How do I know when the scallops are perfectly cooked?
Your Lemon Garlic Scallops are perfectly cooked when the sides have changed from translucent to opaque. They should feel firm but still have a slight bounce when you press them with your finger. If they feel very soft, they need more time; if they feel hard, they are likely overdone. The internal temperature should reach about 115°F to 120°F for a perfect medium-rare center.
Lemon Garlic Scallops are a quintessential dish that showcases the delicate flavors of fresh seafood complemented by zesty lemon and aromatic garlic. This combination not only enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops but also creates a gourmet dining experience in a matter of minutes, similar to what you would find in a fine restaurant. To learn more about this popular seafood preparation, visit this link.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
The following nutritional profile is based on a single serving of Lemon Garlic Scallops, assuming the recipe serves four people. This dish is exceptionally high in protein while remaining low in fat and carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for various dietary lifestyles.
| Metric | Amount |
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Total Fat | 11g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 55mg |
| Sodium | 420mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Protein | 24g |
| Vitamin C | 15% DV |
Lemon Garlic Scallops
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A gourmet Lemon Garlic Scallops recipe capturing the essence of the ocean with the perfect balance of buttery texture and citrus brightness.
Ingredients
1 pound Large Sea Scallops
2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil
3 cloves Fresh Garlic
1 whole Fresh Lemon Juice
2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley
Sea Salt & Black Pepper to Taste
1 teaspoon Lemon Zest
Instructions
- Remove the scallops from the refrigerator about 15 minutes before cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel
- Season both sides of the scallops with sea salt and black pepper just before cooking
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil until shimmering
- Place scallops in the pan without touching. Sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes
- Flip the scallops and add butter and minced garlic. Baste the scallops for about 1 minute
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice, sprinkle lemon zest and parsley, and serve immediately
Notes
Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain temperature for searing.
Use high-smoke-point oil for searing and add butter towards the end.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg