Seared Scallops in a Zesty Lemon Cream Sauce

Introduction

Seared Scallops in a Zesty Lemon Cream Sauce is a luxurious dish featuring perfectly seared sea scallops, paired with a rich and tangy sauce made with white wine, fresh lemon juice, and cream. The golden-brown crust on the scallops gives way to a tender, succulent interior, while the lemon cream sauce adds a burst of fresh flavor that perfectly complements the scallops’ natural sweetness. This dish is simple enough for a weeknight meal but elegant enough for a special occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound sea scallops
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter, divided
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup white wine
• 2/3 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Scallops

1. If using frozen scallops, defrost them in the fridge. Once defrosted, pat the scallops dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will help achieve a nice sear.
2. Season the scallops on both sides with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Scallops

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a nonstick skillet over high heat.
2. Once the oil is very hot and just starting to smoke, carefully place the scallops in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Sear the scallops for 2 minutes on the first side, or until a golden-brown crust forms.
3. Flip the scallops and cook for another 60 seconds on the other side, just until they are firm and browned. Be careful not to overcook the scallops; they should be tender inside.
4. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate to rest.

Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Cream Sauce

1. Reduce the heat to medium and carefully wipe out the skillet with a paper towel.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Pour in 1 cup of white wine and simmer for about 3 minutes until the wine reduces by half.
4. Stir in 2/3 cup heavy cream and 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to finish the sauce, giving it a glossy finish.

Step 4: Serve

1. Arrange the seared scallops on a plate or serving platter.
2. Drizzle the lemon cream sauce over the top of the scallops, ensuring that each one is coated with the rich, flavorful sauce.
3. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Cooking Notes:

• Scallop Searing Tip: Make sure the scallops are thoroughly dried before searing. Excess moisture can prevent the scallops from forming a good crust.
• Wine Substitution: If you prefer not to use white wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth for a similar depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

• With Pasta: Serve the scallops and sauce over a bed of linguine or fettuccine for a delicious seafood pasta dish.
• With Vegetables: Pair the scallops with roasted asparagus or steamed green beans for a light and healthy meal.
• With Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the creamy lemon sauce.

Tips:

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the lemon cream sauce in advance and gently reheat it when ready to serve with the scallops.
• Leftovers: Store any leftover scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the scallops and sauce in a skillet over low heat to prevent overcooking.

Prep Time:

• 10 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 15 minutes

Total Time:

• 25 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Sodium: 420mg

Conclusion

Seared Scallops in a Zesty Lemon Cream Sauce is a simple yet elegant dish that combines the sweetness of perfectly seared scallops with a rich, tangy lemon cream sauce. Whether served over pasta or paired with vegetables, this dish is sure to impress with its sophisticated flavors and easy preparation. Ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, this recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy the delicate taste of scallops with a bright, zesty twist.