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Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Caper Sauce

Panseared scallops with lemon caper sauce - the image shows a plate of cooked scallops on a white plate. the scalls are arranged in a circular pattern and are covered in a creamy sauce. the sauce appears to be a light yellow color and is drizzled over the scallop shells. there are also some green herbs scattered throughout the dish, including parsley and lemon wedges. the plate is sitting on a dark grey countertop with a few lemons in the background. the overall presentation of the dish is elegant and appetizing.

A quick and elegant dish featuring perfectly seared scallops served with a bright and tangy lemon caper sauce, perfect for a special dinner or a light meal.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound sea scallops, patted dry
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons capers, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides with kosher salt and black pepper.
Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering.
Add the scallops to the skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd. Cook without moving for 2-3 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown.
Flip the scallops and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until opaque and cooked through. Remove scallops from the skillet and set aside on a warm plate.
Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the lemon juice and capers, cooking for 1-2 minutes to combine and slightly reduce the sauce.
Return the scallops to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them to warm through for 1 minute.
Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.