If you’re a seafood lover, garlic butter scallops are a dream come true. These tender, juicy, and flavorful morsels of the ocean can be cooked in minutes and taste incredibly luxurious. The combination of buttery richness, fragrant garlic, and a golden crust makes them a restaurant-worthy dish you can easily recreate at home.

Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner, a romantic meal, or a gourmet appetizer, these three sizzling garlic butter scallop recipes will take your seafood game to the next level. Let’s dive into the magic of perfectly seared scallops!

Table of Contents

1. Why Scallops Are a Gourmet Delight
2. Choosing the Best Scallops
3. Tips for Cooking Perfect Scallops
4. Recipe 1: Classic Garlic Butter Scallops
5. Recipe 2: Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops
6. Recipe 3: Spicy Garlic Butter Scallops
7. Best Sides to Serve with Scallops
8. Wine Pairings for Garlic Butter Scallops
9. Common Mistakes to Avoid
10. FAQs

Why Scallops Are a Gourmet Delight

Scallops are one of the most coveted shellfish in the culinary world. Known for their mildly sweet flavor, delicate texture, and versatility, they are often considered a luxury seafood option. Here’s why they’re worth the hype:

• Quick to Cook: They take only 3-4 minutes per side to achieve the perfect sear.
• Rich in Protein: Packed with lean protein and essential vitamins like B12.
• Naturally Sweet & Buttery: Their flavor pairs beautifully with garlic butter.
• Low in Calories: A healthy indulgence that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Choosing the Best Scallops

Before you start cooking, selecting the right scallops is key to achieving the best texture and flavor. Here’s what to look for:

1. Fresh vs. Frozen Scallops

• Fresh scallops should have a sweet, ocean-like aroma, not fishy.
• Frozen scallops work well but should be thawed properly in the fridge overnight before cooking.

2. Dry vs. Wet Scallops

• Dry scallops: No chemical additives, allowing for a better golden sear.
• Wet scallops: Soaked in preservatives, making them retain excess moisture. (Avoid these!)

3. Sea Scallops vs. Bay Scallops

• Sea scallops: Larger, perfect for searing.
• Bay scallops: Smaller, ideal for pasta dishes.

Now that you have the best scallops, let’s move on to cooking them perfectly!

Tips for Cooking Perfect Scallops

• Pat them dry! Moisture prevents a crispy sear.
• Use a hot pan! Medium-high heat creates a caramelized crust.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan! Give each scallop space to sear properly.
• Only flip once! Let each side cook undisturbed for a deep golden brown color.
• Use butter and oil! Butter for flavor, oil for a higher smoke point.

Now, let’s get to the mouthwatering recipes!

Recipe 1: Classic Garlic Butter Scallops

Ingredients:

• 1 lb sea scallops
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Pat scallops dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear scallops for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. Reduce heat to low, add butter and garlic, and baste scallops for 30 seconds.
5. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.

Recipe 2: Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops

Ingredients:

• 1 lb sea scallops
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme

Instructions:

1. Pat scallops dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear scallops for 3 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. Reduce heat, add butter, garlic, lemon juice, and zest, and baste scallops.
5. Garnish with fresh thyme and serve immediately.

Recipe 3: Spicy Garlic Butter Scallops

Ingredients:

• 1 lb sea scallops
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp chopped cilantro

Instructions:

1. Pat scallops dry and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear scallops for 3 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. Reduce heat, add butter and garlic, and baste scallops.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve.

Best Sides to Serve with Scallops

• Garlic butter asparagus
• Creamy risotto
• Parmesan roasted Brussels sprouts
• Lemon butter pasta
• Mashed potatoes

Wine Pairings for Garlic Butter Scallops

• Chardonnay – Buttery and rich, complements the scallops.
• Sauvignon Blanc – Crisp and refreshing.
• Pinot Grigio – Light and citrusy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking – Scallops should be tender, not rubbery.
• Not drying scallops – Moist scallops won’t sear properly.
• Skipping the resting step – Let scallops sit for a minute before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes! Thaw them overnight in the fridge and pat them dry before cooking.

2. How do I know when scallops are done?

They should be golden brown on the outside and opaque in the center.

3. Can I bake scallops instead of frying?

Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes.

4. Can I use bay scallops instead of sea scallops?

Yes, but they cook faster—only about 1-2 minutes per side.

5. What’s the best way to store leftover scallops?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.