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Creamy Lemon Garlic Pan Seared Scallops

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Elegant pan-seared scallops in a creamy lemon garlic sauce, ready in just 20 minutes. This dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort and simple ingredients.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound large sea scallops
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Pat scallops dry and remove side muscle if attached. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Sear scallops in a single layer for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate.
  4. Add garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Deglaze the pan with chicken broth or wine and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits.
  6. Stir in heavy cream and simmer until slightly thickened, about 2–3 minutes.
  7. Return scallops to the pan and spoon sauce over them. Cook for 1 minute to warm through.
  8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Add lemon zest for extra brightness.
  • Stir in parmesan for a richer flavor.
  • Substitute part of the cream with broth for a lighter version.
  • Ensure scallops are dry and the pan is hot for a proper sear.
  • Serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Pan-Seared
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 540mg
  • Fat: 32g
  • Saturated Fat: 17g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 130mg