Scallops In Garlic Butter
Succulent scallops cooked in a flavorful garlic butter sauce, perfect for seafood lovers seeking a quick, elegant dish with fresh parsley and lemon accents.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut scallops in half and soak them in milk for 10 minutes.
- Drain and dry scallops on a towel.
- Lightly dust scallops with flour.
- Heat butter in a skillet.
- Add minced garlic and stir.
- Add scallops and sauté until lightly brown and just heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in minced parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Tips & Substitutions
For perfectly cooked scallops, ensure they are dry before dusting with flour—this helps achieve a golden crust. If you don’t have scallops, shrimp can be a great substitute, but adjust the cooking time as they cook faster. Additionally, using ghee instead of butter can enhance the flavor. You can also add a splash of white wine for extra richness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve scallops over a bed of pasta or alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal. They pair beautifully with lemon wedges to enhance their flavor. For a complete dining experience, consider serving them with a light white wine, or browse more seafood recipes for complementary dishes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the scallops in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of butter to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it can make scallops rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scallops In Garlic Butter contains roughly 191 calories, with 5g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (46% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and potassium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 555mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. This prevents excess moisture, which can affect browning. Ideally, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.
What is the best way to tell when scallops are done?
Scallops are done when they are opaque and firm to the touch. They should have a golden-brown crust on the outside and a slightly translucent center. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While scallops are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the garlic butter and have the scallops prepped in advance. Sauté just before serving to ensure they remain tender and flavorful. For meal prep ideas, consider pairing with the Scallop Broil.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).