Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce and Roasted Asparagus
This elegant dish offers a taste of spring with its fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. Large sea scallops are quickly pan-seared to achieve a beautiful caramelized crust while remaining tender and sweet inside. A simple yet luxurious lemon butter sauce enhances their natural flavor, and roasted asparagus provides a healthy, crisp accompaniment, making for a sophisticated yet easy-to-prepare meal.
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the trimmed asparagus with 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 10-12 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
- 2While asparagus roasts, pat the scallops extremely dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- 3Heat the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add 1 tablespoon of butter.
- 4Once the butter is melted and sizzling, carefully place the scallops in a single layer in the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 1.5-2 minutes per side without moving them, until a deep golden-brown crust forms. You may need to cook in batches.
- 5Remove scallops from the pan and set aside on a plate. Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 6Pour in the fresh lemon juice and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer gently for 1 minute until slightly reduced.
- 7Return the scallops to the pan and toss gently to coat them in the lemon butter sauce. Stir in the fresh parsley.
- 8Serve the pan-seared scallops immediately alongside the roasted asparagus, with extra lemon wedges for squeezing.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I ensure a good sear on the scallops?
The key is to pat the scallops very dry with paper towels before seasoning. Moisture prevents browning. Also, ensure your skillet is very hot and don't overcrowd the pan, as this lowers the pan's temperature.
Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed in the refrigerator overnight and then patted extremely dry before cooking. Fresh scallops generally yield better texture and flavor.
What can I serve with this dish besides asparagus?
This dish pairs well with other light sides like a simple green salad, mashed potatoes, or a small portion of wild rice. A side of sautéed spinach would also be delicious.
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RECIPE BY
Leckere Rezepte
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