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#### Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
1. **Prepare the Sauce**: While the scallops are searing, **melt the butter** in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the **minced garlic** and sauté for about **1 minute** until the garlic becomes fragrant but not burnt. You can add a pinch of **red pepper flakes** for a bit of heat if you like.
2. **Finish the Sauce**: Once the garlic is fragrant, stir in the **lemon juice** and **lemon zest** for a fresh burst of flavor. Let the sauce simmer for a few seconds before removing it from the heat.
#### Step 4: Combine and Serve
1. **Toss the Scallops in Sauce**: Once the scallops are seared, reduce the heat to low and return the scallops to the pan. Pour the **garlic butter sauce** over the scallops and let them sit for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld and the scallops to soak up the sauce.
2. **Garnish and Serve**: Transfer the scallops to a plate and garnish with freshly chopped **parsley**. You can serve them as is, or over pasta, rice, or alongside a salad for a complete meal.
### Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Seared Scallops
– **Freshness is Key**: Fresh scallops are the best choice for this recipe. If you’re using frozen scallops, ensure that they are properly thawed and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
– **High Heat is Crucial**: Ensure your pan is hot enough to sear the scallops. A high temperature is essential for creating that golden-brown crust. However, don’t overdo it — medium-high heat works best for an even sear without burning the garlic.
– **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan**: Cooking scallops in batches if necessary ensures that each one gets the attention it deserves, resulting in a perfect sear.
– **Use Unsalted Butter**: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of seasoning in the dish. You can always add salt to taste at the end.
– **Lemon**: The fresh citrus from **lemon juice** and **lemon zest** adds a light, fresh contrast to the rich butter, enhancing the overall dish.
### Why You Should Try Garlic Butter Seared Scallops
**Garlic Butter Seared Scallops** are the epitome of seafood indulgence. The delicate, sweet flavor of the scallops paired with the **rich, savory garlic butter sauce** creates a mouthwatering combination that is nothing short of irresistible. This dish offers a satisfying balance of flavors, from the tender seafood to the rich, buttery finish, with just a hint of brightness from the lemon.
Scallops are an elegant and versatile protein, perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re preparing an upscale dinner party, a romantic meal, or simply looking to impress with a quick yet sophisticated dish, these garlic butter scallops fit the bill. They’re easy enough to make on a weeknight but impressive enough for a special event.
The best part? **You can enjoy a gourmet meal at home** without having to leave the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and a few minutes of your time, you can indulge in this luxurious seafood dish that’s sure to wow everyone at the table.
So, would you eat these **Classic Garlic Butter Seared Scallops**? We certainly think you should! They are a surefire way to elevate your seafood game and bring restaurant-quality dining to your home.
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