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Crispy Pan-Seared Scallops Recipe with Brown Butter and Lemon Capers

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A quick and easy recipe for crispy pan-seared scallops served with a nutty brown butter and bright lemon caper sauce, perfect for dinner parties or a special weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb fresh sea scallops (dry-packed, medium to large size)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon capers
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse scallops under cold water and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Remove the small side muscle if still attached. Season lightly with salt and pepper on both sides. (About 5 minutes)
  2. Place your cast iron skillet on medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and allow it to shimmer but not smoke. (2 minutes)
  3. Carefully place scallops in the pan, leaving space between each. Cook without moving for 2-3 minutes until the bottom forms a golden crust. Flip and cook the other side for 1-2 minutes until scallops are opaque with a slight give. Remove and set aside. (5 minutes)
  4. In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir frequently until it foams, then browns to a nutty aroma and golden color (about 4-5 minutes). Remove from heat immediately to avoid bitterness. Stir in 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon capers, and 1 clove minced garlic. (7 minutes)
  5. Return scallops to the pan briefly with the brown butter sauce or drizzle the sauce over plated scallops. Garnish with lemon zest and chopped parsley for a fresh pop. (2 minutes)

Notes

Dry scallops thoroughly before searing to achieve a crispy crust. Do not overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming. Remove butter from heat immediately once browned to prevent bitterness. Use medium-high heat and be patient when flipping scallops.

Nutrition

Keywords: scallops, pan-seared scallops, brown butter sauce, lemon capers, seafood recipe, quick dinner, easy scallops

Find it online: https://evabake.com/crispy-pan-seared-scallops-recipe-with-brown-butter-and-lemon-capers-easy-and-perfect/