Name: Lemon Butter Scallops Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1 pound sea scallops; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves

If you’re looking for a quick yet elegant dish to impress without fuss, this Lemon Butter Scallops Recipe is a winner every time. Scallops are naturally sweet and tender, and when paired with a bright, garlicky lemon butter sauce, they transform into something truly special. I find it’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but comes together in under 20 minutes—perfect for a last-minute dinner or a weekend treat.

What I love most about this Lemon Butter Scallops Recipe is how versatile it is. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family meal or aiming to wow guests with minimal effort, these scallops hit the spot. The buttery sauce with fresh lemon juice balances richness and tang, and the sprinkle of parsley adds that fresh pop, making it a dish you’ll want to come back to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Lemon Butter Scallops Recipe really comes from the quality and simplicity of its ingredients. Each one plays an essential role, creating a harmonious balance between rich, fresh, and bright flavors. When you’re shopping, try to grab the freshest scallops you can find and fresh lemons for that vibrant taste.

Unsalted butter: Using unsalted butter helps you control the saltiness of the dish perfectly.
Sea scallops: Fresh and dry-packed scallops work best as they sear nicely and aren’t watery.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Seasoning at both stages makes all the difference.
Garlic: Minced fresh garlic gives the sauce its irresistible aroma and depth.
Freshly squeezed lemon juice: Always better than bottled for that clean, bright citrus punch.
Chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note to finish the dish.

Variations

I like to make this Lemon Butter Scallops Recipe my own depending on what I have on hand or the occasion. Feel free to personalize it—the basic framework is super flexible and forgiving.

Add a splash of white wine: When I want an extra layer of flavor, I’ll deglaze the pan with a bit of dry white wine before adding the lemon juice.
Spicy kick: Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat—the lemon butter sauce handles spice beautifully.
Dairy-free option: Swap the butter with a good-quality olive oil and add a touch of garlic-infused oil for richness.
Herb variations: Try tarragon or chives instead of parsley to subtly change the herbal notes.

How to Make Lemon Butter Scallops Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Sear the Scallops to Perfection

The key to perfect scallops is drying them thoroughly — I cannot stress this enough. Remove the small side muscle if it’s still attached; it’s a bit chewy and not very pleasant. After rinsing, pat those scallops dry with paper towels until there’s zero moisture. This ensures they sear up beautifully and get that gorgeous golden crust. Melt a tablespoon of unsalted butter in a hot cast iron skillet and season the scallops well with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper. Place them in the pan in a single layer, giving each scallop room. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes per side until you get a nice caramelized color and the centers are just opaque. Quick tip: Resist flipping more than once to maintain that crust.

Step 2: Make the Luscious Lemon Butter Sauce

Once your scallops have rested on a warm plate, it’s time to make the lemon butter sauce that elevates this dish. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and toss in minced garlic. Stir frequently so it softens and releases all those garlicky scents—about a minute is perfect, don’t let it burn! Then add freshly squeezed lemon juice for that bright zing. Season with a touch of salt and pepper to taste. The sauce will be silky and fragrant, just waiting to coat those tender scallops.

Step 3: Bring It All Together

Pour the lemon butter sauce over the scallops or gently toss them in the pan to coat. Sprinkle plenty of fresh chopped parsley over the top for color and a burst of freshness. Serve immediately—the scallops are best enjoyed hot and fresh to keep that perfect sear and tender texture.

How to Serve Lemon Butter Scallops Recipe

A white plate lined with brown parchment paper holds several pieces of raw scallops, each seasoned with black pepper. To the right on a white marbled surface are two whole bright yellow lemons, one sliced in half, along with three garlic cloves, two small clear glass bowls filled with coarse salt and ground black pepper, a sprig of fresh green parsley, and a partially unwrapped stick of yellow butter cut into pieces. The top of a shiny metal pan and a wooden lemon juicer are also visible near the ingredients. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I love finishing this dish with a few extra fresh parsley leaves or even a sprinkle of finely grated lemon zest on top to boost that citrus aroma. Sometimes, a few thin lemon slices on the side make for a pretty garnish and give your guests the option for more tang.

Side Dishes

This is such a versatile scallop recipe that I like pairing it with light but flavorful sides—creamy mashed potatoes, garlic butter pasta, or even a simple arugula salad tossed with olive oil and lemon. Roasted asparagus or some blanched green beans tossed with a touch of butter also complement it perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

I’ve found that serving Lemon Butter Scallops Recipe atop a bed of saffron risotto or alongside colorful roasted vegetables makes for a stunning presentation. For date nights or special occasions, plating each scallop individually with a drizzle of sauce and a microgreen garnish turns it into restaurant-quality fare without the stress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (rare in my house), store the scallops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. I like to keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain its fresh flavor and prevent the scallops from getting soggy.

Freezing

Freezing cooked scallops isn’t ideal since they can become rubbery when reheated, so I generally recommend enjoying this Lemon Butter Scallops Recipe fresh. However, if you must, flash freeze the scallops before cooking and thaw them slowly in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

When reheating, I gently warm the scallops in a low-heat skillet for a minute or two just to avoid overcooking. I add a quick splash of fresh lemon juice or a dollop of butter to revive the sauce and keep things moist, but honestly, this dish tastes best freshly made.

FAQs

What kind of scallops are best for Lemon Butter Scallops Recipe?

Dry-packed sea scallops are your best bet since they’re not soaked in water or preservatives and will sear beautifully. Avoid wet or previously frozen scallops if possible, as they tend to release water and won’t brown well.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?

While fresh lemon juice is ideal for the brightest, freshest flavor, you can use bottled juice in a pinch. Just be mindful of its bitterness or any added preservatives, which may slightly alter the taste.
How do I know when scallops are cooked perfectly?

Cook scallops for about 2-3 minutes per side until they develop a golden crust and turn opaque in the center. They should be slightly firm but still tender—overcooking makes them rubbery.
Can I prepare this Lemon Butter Scallops Recipe ahead of time?

You can prep scallops by cleaning and drying them ahead, but it’s best to cook them and make the sauce fresh to enjoy the best texture and flavor. The sauce can be made in advance and gently reheated.
Any tips for cooking scallops evenly?

Make sure all scallops are about the same size so they cook evenly. Use a hot pan and don’t overcrowd it—work in batches if necessary.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Butter Scallops Recipe is one of those reliable dishes that always impresses, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a celebratory meal. I love how quick it is and the way it brings pure, fresh flavors together with minimal ingredients. If you give it a try, I think you’ll find it as satisfying and accessible as I do—and it might just become your go-to for special seafood dinners!