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# Garlic Butter Scallops: A Culinary Delight

Garlic butter scallops are a luxurious yet simple dish that brings together the delicate sweetness of scallops with the rich, savory flavors of garlic and butter. This dish is not only a treat for the palate but also a visual delight, making it perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions.

## Understanding Scallops

Scallops are bivalve mollusks found in both cold and warm waters around the world. They are highly prized for their tender texture and sweet, delicate flavor. There are two main types of scallops:

* **Sea Scallops**: Larger in size, typically measuring 1.5 to 2 inches across. They have a meatier texture and are ideal for searing.

* **Bay Scallops**: Smaller and sweeter, often used in soups, stews, or served raw.

When preparing garlic butter scallops, sea scallops are generally preferred due to their size and texture, which hold up well to the high-heat cooking methods used in this dish.

## Selecting Fresh Scallops

The quality of scallops significantly impacts the final dish. When purchasing scallops:

* **Opt for Dry-Packed Scallops**: These have not been treated with chemicals and retain their natural sweetness.

* **Check for Freshness**: Fresh scallops should have a clean, slightly sweet aroma, reminiscent of the ocean.

* **Avoid Wet-Packed Scallops**: These are soaked in a solution that can affect their texture and flavor.

## Preparing Scallops for Cooking

Proper preparation is crucial to achieving the perfect sear:

1. **Thawing**: If using frozen scallops, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about an hour.

2. **Removing the Side Muscle**: Some scallops have a small, rectangular side muscle on the side. This should be removed as it can be tough and chewy.([begreedyeats.com][1])

3. **Drying**: Pat the scallops thoroughly with paper towels. Excess moisture can cause them to steam rather than sear.

4. **Seasoning**: Lightly season with salt and pepper just before cooking to enhance their natural flavor.

## Cooking Garlic Butter Scallops

### Ingredients:

* 12 large sea scallops
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* Juice of half a lemon
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
* Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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