The scent of sizzling scallops wafting through the kitchen is a siren song for any foodie. Imagine golden-brown morsels, kissed by a luscious herb butter that melts like a dream, bringing a wave of flavor that dances on your taste buds. It’s not just dinner; it’s an experience that transports you to a seaside bistro, where the ocean breeze mingles with laughter and clinking glasses.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Herb Butter Scallops
- How to Make Herb Butter Scallops
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs:
- What are Herb Butter Scallops?
- How do I cook Herb Butter Scallops perfectly?
- Can I use frozen scallops for Herb Butter Scallops?
- What sides pair well with Herb Butter Scallops?
- Conclusion for Herb Butter Scallops:
- 📖 Recipe Card
Now, let me take you back to a sunny Saturday evening years ago when I stumbled upon my first scallop dish at a quaint restaurant. I was convinced that culinary magic had been unleashed! With each buttery bite, I felt like I was dining under the stars in some posh coastal town. miso glazed Brussels sprouts Ever since then, I knew I had to recreate that moment at home. And guess what? You can too! This Herb Butter Scallops recipe is perfect for any occasion—be it date night or impressing your friends with your chef skills.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The preparation is so straightforward that even your cat could execute it—if only they had thumbs.
- The flavor profile combines rich butteriness with fresh herbs, creating an explosion of taste.
- These scallops are not just delicious; they look stunning on any plate, turning dinner into an art show.
- Versatile enough to accompany pasta or salad, this dish has something for everyone!
Ingredients for Herb Butter Scallops
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Sea Scallops: Aim for large, plump scallops for the best flavor and texture; frozen ones work too if fresh isn’t available.
- Unsalted Butter: Essential for creating the rich herb butter sauce; feel free to use high-quality European butter for extra creaminess.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds an aromatic punch to the dish; avoid the jarred stuff if you can.
- Fresh Herbs (Parsley and Thyme): These bring freshness and color; chop them finely for maximum flavor release.
- Lemon Juice: A splash of acidity brightens up the dish and balances all those buttery flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Herb Butter Scallops
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Scallops
Rinse your fresh sea scallops under cold water and gently pat them dry with paper towels. Drying them ensures a nice sear when cooked.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt two tablespoons of unsalted butter until it foams. The bubbling action means it’s ready for those lovely scallops.
Step 3: Sear the Scallops
Place the scallops in the pan without crowding them (think personal space!). Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they develop a golden crust before flipping them over.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Herbs
Once flipped, add minced garlic and chopped herbs into the pan. Cook everything together for another minute or so, allowing those fragrant notes to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Finish with Lemon Juice
Remove from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over your perfectly cooked scallops. This step brings everything together in harmony!
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Transfer those succulent morsels onto plates, spooning some of that remaining herb butter over them. Get ready for oohs and ahhs from everyone at the table!
This Herb Butter Scallops recipe is not just about cooking; it’s about creating joyful moments around food where stories are shared and laughter echoes in every bite! So go ahead—dive into this delightful experience and savor every buttery morsel!
You Must Know
- This delightful herb butter scallops recipe offers a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance.
- The tender scallops sear to perfection while the herb-infused butter elevates this dish into gourmet territory.
- Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself on a cozy night in.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by patting the scallops dry with a paper towel, then season them with salt and pepper. Sear them in a hot pan until golden brown before adding your herb butter. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb all that glorious flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your herb butter scallops by using different herbs like dill or parsley. You can also substitute garlic with shallots for a milder taste. Tuscan white bean soup Adding a splash of white wine during cooking gives it an extra zing!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit more butter if needed to keep them moist and flavorful.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect herb butter scallops, ensure the pan is hot enough before adding scallops; this prevents them from sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan to maintain even cooking; work in batches if necessary.
- Always let scallops rest briefly after cooking for optimal texture and flavor.
Scallops have always held a special place in my heart, especially when my friends raved about this dish at a dinner party last month. Their delighted faces made all those hours in the kitchen worth it!
FAQs:
What are Herb Butter Scallops?
Herb butter scallops are a delicious seafood dish that features tender scallops sautéed in a rich, flavorful herb-infused butter. This dish combines the sweetness of scallops with aromatic herbs like parsley, garlic, and thyme, creating a mouthwatering experience. The simplicity of the recipe allows the natural flavors of the scallops to shine through, making it an ideal choice for both casual dinners and special occasions. Preparing herb butter scallops is quick and easy, requiring minimal ingredients yet delivering maximum taste. For more inspiration, check out this Irresistible Garlic Shrimp recipe.
How do I cook Herb Butter Scallops perfectly?
To achieve perfectly cooked herb butter scallops, start by patting them dry to ensure a good sear. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the herb-infused butter. Once the butter is sizzling, gently place the scallops in the pan without overcrowding. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust and are opaque in the center. Avoid flipping them too often to ensure even cooking. Following these steps guarantees succulent herb butter scallops every time.
Can I use frozen scallops for Herb Butter Scallops?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops for herb butter scallops; however, it’s essential to thaw them properly before cooking. Place frozen scallops in the refrigerator overnight or submerge them in cold water for about an hour to defrost quickly. After thawing, make sure to pat them dry thoroughly to avoid excess moisture during cooking. Using frozen scallops can be a convenient option while still enjoying flavorful herb butter scallops at home.
What sides pair well with Herb Butter Scallops?
Herb butter scallops pair beautifully with various sides that complement their rich flavor. Light salads with citrus vinaigrette enhance the dish’s freshness, while creamy risottos provide a comforting balance. Additionally, sautéed vegetables like asparagus or green beans add color and nutrition. butter braised cabbage side dish For a heartier option, consider serving herb butter scallops over a bed of pasta tossed with garlic and olive oil. citrus radicchio salad Choose any side to create a well-rounded meal that highlights the succulent nature of your scallops.
Conclusion for Herb Butter Scallops:
In summary, herb butter scallops are a delightful seafood dish that combines simplicity with exquisite flavor. By following proper cooking techniques and using fresh ingredients like herbs and quality butter, you can create this gourmet meal at home in no time. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet dinner, these succulent scallops will impress anyone lucky enough to try them. Embrace this easy recipe and savor every bite of your homemade herb butter scallops! For more inspiration, check out this Savor Grilled Salmon recipe.
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📖 Recipe Card
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Herb Butter Scallops
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Herb Butter Scallops are a quick yet elegant seafood dish that highlights tender, juicy scallops coated in a rich herb-infused butter. With a golden-brown sear and vibrant flavors from fresh parsley and thyme, this recipe is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a special night at home. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an exquisite way to bring a taste of the seaside directly to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh sea scallops
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse scallops under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter until foaming.
- Add scallops to the pan without overcrowding; cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until golden brown.
- Flip scallops, then add minced garlic and chopped herbs to the pan. Cook for an additional minute.
- Remove from heat and squeeze lemon juice over scallops before serving immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 scallops (113g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
