Lemon Butter Scallops are a quick and elegant seafood dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home in just 20 minutes. Tender, golden-seared scallops are finished in a luscious lemon butter sauce with garlic and fresh herbs. Perfect for weeknights or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

largesea scallopsbutterolive oilgarlicclovesfresh lemons (juice and zest)white wine (optional)fresh parsley (chopped)saltblack pepper

directions

Pat the scallops dry thoroughly with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Place the scallops in the hot skillet, spacing them apart. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden-brown and opaque in the center. Remove and set aside.

Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt.

Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add lemon juice, zest, and white wine (if using). Let simmer for 1-2 minutes.

Return the scallops to the pan and spoon the lemon butter sauce over them to coat.

Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2-3 people.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 10-12 minutesTotal time: 15-20 minutes

Variations

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Substitute lime for lemon for a citrus twist.

Use ghee instead of butter for a lactose-free version.

Serve over angel hair pasta or rice for a complete meal.

storage/reheating

Store leftover scallops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or butter to avoid overcooking.Do not microwave, as it can make scallops rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

Why won’t my scallops sear properly?

Moisture is the enemy—ensure scallops are very dry and the pan is hot enough.

Can I skip the wine?

Yes, replace it with a bit of broth or more lemon juice for a non-alcoholic option.

What do I serve with lemon butter scallops?

They pair well with pasta, risotto, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Can I use small bay scallops?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time to avoid overcooking.

Are lemon butter scallops healthy?

Yes, they are high in protein and low in carbs—just watch the butter if you’re counting calories.

Conclusion

Lemon Butter Scallops are a flavorful and elegant dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. In just 20 minutes, you can serve a seafood delicacy bursting with zesty lemon, rich butter, and aromatic garlic. Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe brings sophistication and taste to the table with minimal effort.