Introduction
Scallops in Lemon Wine Sauce is a sophisticated and flavorful dish that brings a touch of gourmet dining to your home. Scallops are prized for their tender, delicate texture and sweet flavor, which pairs beautifully with the bright, tangy notes of lemon and the subtle complexity of white wine. This dish is perfect for special occasions, romantic dinners, or when you simply want to treat yourself to something extraordinary.
What makes this recipe even more appealing is its simplicity and quick preparation. Despite its elegant presentation and rich flavors, you can have this dish ready in under 30 minutes. The key is to use fresh, high-quality scallops and to cook them just right to retain their tenderness. Paired with a zesty lemon wine sauce, these scallops will impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy them. Ready to elevate your culinary skills? Let’s dive into the recipe for Scallops in Lemon Wine Sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large sea scallops
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Directions
- Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the scallops in a single layer and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and opaque in the center. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, stirring to deglaze the pan and loosen any browned bits from the bottom. Simmer the sauce for 3-4 minutes until it reduces slightly.
- Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and the lemon zest. Return the scallops to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to heat through.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
How to Prepare
Start by patting the scallops dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season both sides of the scallops with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering but not smoking. Carefully place the scallops in a single layer in the skillet, ensuring they don’t touch. Sear the scallops for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden crust and are opaque in the center. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set them aside.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the dry white wine and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir the mixture, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to incorporate them into the sauce. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.
Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and the lemon zest, which will add a fresh and vibrant touch to the sauce. Return the scallops to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to ensure they are heated through and well-coated with the flavorful sauce. Garnish the dish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and added freshness. Serve the scallops immediately, paired with your favorite side dishes.
Preparation Time
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 4 people, making it an excellent choice for a small dinner party or a special family meal.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure a good sear.
2. What type of white wine should I use?
A dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay works best for this recipe.
3. Can I add other ingredients to the sauce?
Yes, you can add ingredients like capers, shallots, or a splash of cream to enhance the sauce’s flavor.
4. How do I know when the scallops are done?
Scallops are done when they are golden brown on the outside and opaque in the center. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough.
5. What should I serve with Scallops in Lemon Wine Sauce?
This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Conclusion
Scallops in Lemon Wine Sauce is an elegant and delicious dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. With its combination of tender, seared scallops and a bright, tangy sauce, this recipe is sure to impress at any dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to a gourmet meal at home, this dish is a perfect choice. Follow this recipe and enjoy the sophisticated flavors of Scallops in Lemon Wine Sauce, a true culinary delight that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
