Harbor Seared Scallops Lemon

Tender, golden-seared sea scallops finished with a bright, aromatic lemon-dill butter, evoking the essence of a seaside harbor dinner.

This recipe reminds me of peaceful evenings by the seaside, enjoying fresh flavors with family.

Ingredients

• Scallops: 1½ pounds (700 g) large sea scallops, dry-packed, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Lemon-Dill Butter: 4 tablespoons (60 g) unsalted butter softened, 2 tablespoons fresh dill finely chopped, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 1 small garlic clove minced, pinch of sea salt
• Garnish (Optional): Lemon wedges, extra fresh dill sprigs

Instructions

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Step 1:

Pat the scallops thoroughly dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2:

In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, dill, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.

Step 3:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet (preferably cast-iron or stainless steel) over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Step 4:

Place scallops in the skillet in a single layer, spacing them apart. Sear without moving for 23 minutes, until a deep golden crust forms.

Step 5:

Flip the scallops and sear the other side for 12 minutes, just until opaque and barely firm to the touch. Do not overcook.

Step 6:

Immediately transfer scallops to a platter. While still hot, top with dollops of the lemon-dill butter, allowing it to melt over the scallops.

Step 7:

Garnish with lemon wedges and dill sprigs. Serve at once.

Boil water quickly for tea, coffee, instant soups, and faster prep when cooking grains or noodles.

Check price on Amazon

Boil water quickly for tea, coffee, instant soups, and faster prep when cooking grains or noodles.

Check price on Amazon

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This dish has become a family favorite especially on special occasions where we gather and share stories around the table.

Required Tools

Large skillet (cast iron or stainless steel recommended) Mixing bowl Paper towels Tongs or spatula

Allergen Information

Contains Shellfish Dairy (butter) If using pre-packed butter check for possible milk allergens For dairy-free substitute with plant-based butter

Nutritional Information

Calories 265 Total Fat 16 g Carbohydrates 3 g Protein 26 g

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Quickly cook hard boiled, poached, or scrambled eggs and omelets for easy breakfasts and meal prep.

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Enjoy your perfectly seared scallops with a bright lemon-dill twist for a memorable meal.

Your Questions Answered

→ How do you achieve a perfect sear on scallops?

Pat scallops dry before seasoning and use a hot skillet with olive oil. Sear without moving for 2-3 minutes per side to develop a golden crust.

→ What is the role of the lemon-dill butter?

The lemon-dill butter adds a bright, aromatic finish that complements the natural sweetness of the scallops with fresh, citrusy, and herbal flavors.

→ Can other types of butter be used?

Unsalted butter is preferred for control over seasoning, but plant-based butter can substitute for dairy-free needs without compromising flavor.

→ What is the best way to prepare scallops before cooking?

Ensure scallops are dry-packed and thoroughly patted dry to promote even searing and prevent steaming in the pan.

→ What dishes pair well with scallops finished with lemon-dill butter?

Consider crusty bread, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad to complement the light, coastal flavors of the scallops.