### Instructions:

1. **Heat the Pan**: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to heat until shimmering but not smoking.

2. **Sear the Scallops**: Add the scallops to the pan in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Sear without moving them for about 2-3 minutes until a golden crust forms. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the other side is golden and the scallops are opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. **Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce**: In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.

4. **Finish the Dish**: Return the scallops to the pan and spoon the garlic butter sauce over them. Drizzle with lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.

5. **Serve**: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

## Tips for Perfect Scallops

* **Avoid Overcrowding**: Cook scallops in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can cause them to steam rather than sear.([bonsaimary.com][2])

* **High Heat**: Ensure the pan is hot before adding the scallops to achieve a proper sear.([bonsaimary.com][2])

* **Minimal Handling**: Once placed in the pan, avoid moving the scallops until it’s time to flip them. This helps in forming a crust.

* **Resting**: Let the scallops rest for a minute after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.

## Variations and Pairings

While the classic garlic butter preparation is delightful on its own, here are some variations and pairing suggestions:

* **Herbed Garlic Butter**: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil to the garlic butter for added aroma and flavor.

* **Spicy Kick**: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper into the garlic butter for a spicy twist.

* **Creamy Sauce**: For a richer sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of crème fraîche after removing the scallops from the pan.

* **Pairings**: Serve garlic butter scallops over a bed of risotto, alongside sautéed spinach, or with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

## Nutritional Information

Garlic butter scallops are a low-carb, high-protein dish. Scallops are an excellent source of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential minerals like selenium and vitamin B12. While butter adds richness, using it in moderation ensures the dish remains a healthy option when enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

## Conclusion

Garlic butter scallops are a testament to the elegance of simple ingredients. With their tender texture and the rich, savory sauce, they offer a dining experience reminiscent of fine restaurants. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. Remember, the key to perfection lies in the quality of the scallops and the technique used in cooking them. With practice, you can master the art of preparing garlic butter scallops and enjoy this delectable dish at home.

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**References**:

* “How to Cook Scallops for a Restaurant-Worthy Dinner.” Epicurious. [https://www.epicurious.com/recipes-menus/how-to-cook-scallops](https://www.epicurious.com/recipes-menus/how-to-cook-scallops)

* “Garlic Butter Scallops.” Primavera Kitchen. [https://www.primaverakitchen.com/garlic-butter-scallops-recipe](https://www.primaverakitchen.com/garlic-butter-scallops-recipe)

* “Garlic Butter Scallops.” Greens & Chocolate. [https://greensnchocolate.com/garlic-butter-scallops](https://greensnchocolate.com/garlic-butter-scallops)

* “Garlic Butter Scallops.” Cafe Delites. [https://cafedelites.com/lemon-garlic-butter-scallops](https://cafedelites.com/lemon-garlic-butter-scallops)

* “Garlic Butter Herb Scallops.” The Recipe Critic. [https://therecipecritic.com/garlic-butter-herb-scallops](https://therecipecritic.com/garlic-butter-herb-scallops)

* “Garlic Butter Scallops.” Dinner at the Zoo. [https://www.dinneratthezoo.com/seared-scallops](https://www.dinneratthezoo.com/seared-scallops)

* “Garlic Butter Scallops.” Be Greedy Eats. [https://www.begreedyeats.com/appetizers-salads/seared-garlic-butter-scallops](https://www.begreedyeats.com/appetizers-salads/seared-garlic-butter-scallops)

* “Garlic Butter Scallops.” Bonsai Mary. [https://bonsaimary.com/easy-garlic-butter-scallops-recipe.html](https://bonsaimary.com/easy-garlic-butter-scallops-recipe.html)

* “Garlic Butter Scallops.” Moroccan Foodie. [https://www.moroccanfoodie.com/garlic-butter-baked-scallop-recipes-flavors](https://www.moroccanfoodie.com/garlic-butter-baked-scallop-recipes-flavors)

* “Garlic Butter Scallops.” Allrecipes. [https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/garlic-butter-scallops](https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/garlic-butter-scallops)

[1]: https://www.begreedyeats.com/appetizers-salads/seared-garlic-butter-scallops?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Seared Garlic Butter Scallops Recipe — Be Greedy Eats | Where Food Meets Comfort”
[2]: https://bonsaimary.com/easy-garlic-butter-scallops-recipe.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Easy Garlic Butter Scallops Recipe”