Bring the elegance of a restaurant-quality meal to your home with these Pan-Seared Scallops topped with a Lemon Herb Butter Sauce. This quick and easy recipe balances rich, buttery flavors with zesty lemon and fresh herbs, making it a showstopper for any occasion.

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Ingredients

For the Scallops:

• 1 pound large sea scallops
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper

For the Lemon Herb Butter Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

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Instructions

1. Prep the Scallops

1. Dry the Scallops: Pat the scallops completely dry with paper towels to ensure a golden sear.
2. Season Generously: Sprinkle both sides of the scallops with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

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2. Sear the Scallops

1. Heat the Skillet: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the butter begins to sizzle.
2. Sear to Perfection: Place scallops in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

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3. Make the Lemon Herb Butter Sauce

1. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes.
3. Add Lemon and Herbs: Stir in lemon juice, zest, parsley, and thyme. Simmer for another minute.

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4. Combine and Serve

1. Finish with Scallops: Return the scallops to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them. Heat for 1 minute.
2. Plate and Garnish: Transfer scallops to a serving plate and drizzle with the remaining sauce. Garnish with extra parsley, if desired.

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Tips for the Best Scallops

• Use Dry Scallops: Avoid scallops treated with water or chemicals for the best sear.
• Don’t Overcook: Scallops should be tender and slightly translucent in the center.
• Customize the Sauce: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick or a splash of cream for richness.

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Why This Recipe Shines

This Pan-Seared Scallops recipe delivers perfectly caramelized scallops paired with a bright and flavorful sauce. The combination of lemon, butter, and fresh herbs creates a luxurious dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare.

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Serve these scallops with a side of crusty bread, steamed vegetables, or a light salad for an unforgettable meal. Try it today and savor the gourmet flavors in every bite!