Lemon Garlic Scallops

Ah, Lemon Garlic Scallops. Just hearing the name triggers an imminent craving for such a delectable treat. This dish consists of tender scallops fried until golden brown, bathed in a tangy and garlicky lemon sauce that leaves a flavor dance on your tongue. Ideal for a fancy dinner, a romantic date night or even just when you���re looking to try your hand at a gourmet dish. I assure you, the results will impress. Not only are these scallops utterly delicious, but their presentation also looks like a dish straight from a swanky restaurant.

Let me tell you, the Lemon Garlic Scallops are a real treat for seafood lovers. The tangy lemon pairs perfectly with the sweet, juicy scallops and the garlic adds a punch to brighten up your palate. And the best part? This dish is easy to prepare and it cooks up quickly. Tempted yet? Let’s get down to business.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yield: 12 scallops

Without further ado, let’s dive into the recipe.

Ingredients & Equipment You’ll Need

• 1 pound of large scallops
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment Needed

• Large nonstick skillet
• Spatula

The garlic and lemon are pivotal in this recipe, providing the flavor profile for our scallops. Fresh parsley adds an herbaceous touch to round off the dish and is also visually appealing. Don’t skimp on using a nonstick skillet, as this will make your cooking process much easier and prevent the scallops from sticking.

How To Make Lemon Garlic Scallops

1. First off, pat each scallop dry and season both sides with salt and black pepper. This ensures they fry up nicely in the skillet and get that beautiful brown crust.
2. Next up, heat the skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter. When the butter starts to sizzle, add the scallops, taking care not to crowd them. We want each one to have its moment under the spotlight.
3. Cook each scallop for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they get a golden crust. Once cooked, remove them onto a plate.
4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Then add the lemon juice and lemon zest, stirring to combine. The lemon will deglaze the skillet, scraping down all the tasty bits left from cooking the scallops.
5. Finally, add the scallops back into the pan, spoon over some of the sauce and serve them garnished with fresh parsley. You’re done! Now, it’s time to dig in.

Tips For The Best Results

• Don’t overbake the scallops. They should be just firm to touch.
• Always pat dry the scallops before cooking to avoid them from releasing too much water into the pan.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate leftovers in a closed container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until hot but not rubbery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen scallops?

A: Yes, you can but make sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before use.

Q: Is there an alternative for butter in this recipe?

A: Olive oil can make a good substitute.

Q: Can I serve the scallops with anything else?

A: Absolutely! They go perfectly with a side of mashed potatoes or a simple green salad.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: It���s best to serve scallops immediately after they���re cooked for the best texture.

Q: What type of lemon should I use?

A: Any variety works, but I find Meyer lemons give a softer, sweet-tart flavor.

Nutritional Facts of Lemon Garlic Scallops

Each serving of Lemon Garlic Scallops offers about 189 calories, 23g Protein, 7g Fat, 7g Carbs, 0g Fiber, and 1039mg Sodium.

To conclude, these Lemon Garlic Scallops are a delight with their tantalizing flavors and aesthetic appeal. They are wonderful served over a bed of pasta or with crusty bread to sop up that delicious lemon garlic sauce. Not only does this dish taste exquisite, but it also adds a touch of elegance to any meal. Give this recipe a whirl, and bring a gourmet dining experience right to your kitchen!