Crispy Roasted Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce
Craving delicious scallops roasted to perfection? Try my crispy sea scallops drizzled with lemon butter sauce—an elegant seafood dinner idea for two!
look into Into Flavor with Scallops Roasted
Oh my gosh, have you ever had scallops roasted to perfection? seriously, it’s like taking a mini-vacation to the coast with each bite.
The buttery richness paired with that briny ocean flavor is just heavenly. trust me; you’ll want to keep this recipe on repeat!
A Touch of Coastal Magic
Now, let me tell you a bit about this dish. originating from coastal cuisines, scallops hold a special place in seafood lovers’ hearts.
They've been gracing dinner tables from atlantic to pacific for ages, and for good reason! if you’re up for a little culinary challenge, this recipe is medium difficulty .
You’ll spend about 25 minutes total from prep to plate, making it perfect for a weekend dinner or a special date night.
Plus, this dish serves 4 , so it’s great for sharing or just for a fancy night in.
What’s in It for You?
Talk about health benefits! scallops are packed with lean protein and low in calories, coming in at around 270 calories a serving.
Perfect for a satisfying meal without the guilt, right? this dish is ideal for those romantic dinners with scallops or even a cozy night with friends.
Trust me; this recipe stands out because it’s quick, flavorful, and just fancy enough to impress. and let’s be real—they’re a total crowd-pleaser!
So, are you ready to transform your evening with some crispy roasted scallops with lemon butter sauce ? you’ll want to get together your ingredients and kick things off, because this delicacy isn’t just any ordinary seafood dish—it’s totally special! from scallop casserole baked to playing well with scallops and ravioli , there’s a variety of ways to explore this delicious seafood world.
Let’s get cooking, my friends! Your taste buds are in for a treat.
Crispy Roasted Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Ingredients & Equipment
The Main Ingredients You’ll Need
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty! To whip up those delicious scallops roasted to golden perfection, here’s the lineup you gotta grab:
For the Scallops:
- 1 pound (450g) large sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter (go for the good stuff here—no margarine!)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is best!)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (don't skimp on this!)
When picking scallops, make sure they smell fresh—not fishy—and are slightly sweet. Fresh is key! Your taste buds will dance, trust me!
Flavor Boosts and Seasoning Notes
Now, let’s chat about the secret to making your scallops sing. I’m talking essential spice combos.
Essential Seasonings:
- Don’t skimp on salt and black pepper —this duo brings out the seafood flavor.
- For an aromatic touch, minced garlic is a must. It’ll make your kitchen smell divine.
Quick Substitution Options:
- Out of lemon juice? Use vinegar in a pinch! If you’re feeling adventurous, lime juice can add a fun twist too.
Equipment You’ll Need
Time to gather your kitchen gadgets! You won’t need a ton of equipment, but here’s what’s essential:
- Baking Sheet: A simple, sturdy one will do.
- Skillet: Preferably cast iron for that heat retention—this isn’t your grandma’s non-stick!
- Tongs: You’ll need these to flip your scallops without any fuss.
- Zester/Grater: For that zesty lemon kick.
- Small Saucepan: Just for melting that butter.
No fancy equipment? No worries! A regular skillet works just fine if you don’t have cast iron. The key is to ensure even cooking, especially when you’re doing that pan-seared magic for scallops and ravioli !
Final Thoughts
So there you have it—every little ingredient and tool to help you create a seafood sensation! whether it’s a scallop casserole baked or a dinner with scallops that’ll impress your date, having the right alignment of ingredients and tools is everything.
Remember, cooking is about having fun and being a little creative, so don’t sweat the small stuff! now, let’s get those scallops roasting and have a feast!
Cooking Method for Crispy Roasted Scallops
Prep Steps
Before diving into these scallops roasted to perfection, let's talk prep. first, get your mise en place together. it’s fancy french for "everything in its place.
" so, gather your ingredients, tools, and maybe a glass of white wine—just sayin'.
Time-saving tip: Organize your kitchen! Set out bowls for your scallops, seasoning, and sauces before you start cooking. Trust me, it makes the process so much smoother.
And hey, safety first! Make sure your hands are clean when handling seafood. If you’re using a knife, watch those fingers!
Step-by-Step Process
Preheat the Oven: Crank it up to 425° F ( 220° C) . This helps get that nice, crispy crust on the scallops.
Prepare the scallops: pat those puppies dry with paper towels; moisture is the enemy here! season them with salt and pepper.
Drizzle olive oil on a baking sheet and place your scallops evenly on it.
Roast the scallops: pop the baking sheet in the oven. you're looking at about 10– 12 minutes of roasting until they’re golden brown and opaque.
Visual cues? when they look like little golden nuggets, you’re in business!
Make the lemon butter sauce: while the scallops are roasting, melt your butter in a skillet over medium heat. add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in lemon zest and juice, then take that off the heat.
Serve: Plate your glorious roasted scallops and drizzle that zesty lemon butter sauce on top. Garnish with fresh parsley. Voila!
Pro Tips
- Patience, my friend: Allow those scallops to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking. This helps them sear evenly.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Spread those scallops out on that baking sheet! If they're too close, steam will take over and no one wants that sad, rubbery texture.
- Don’t Walk Away: Scallops cook quickly. Keep an eye on them, or they’ll go from delightful to disaster fast!
Thinking ahead? You can make the lemon butter sauce up to a day in advance. Just reheat it gently when you’re ready to serve.
So, whether you're planning a dinner with scallops , or looking for seafood dinner ideas for two , these crispy roasted scallops will impress anyone.
And let’s be real, who wouldn’t swoon over scallops and steak dinner? enjoy every bite!
Recipe Notes for Scallops Roasted
Serving Suggestions
Plating is a game changer, folks! when serving your crispy roasted scallops with lemon butter sauce , think about color and texture.
Lay those perfectly golden scallops on a bright white plate; it makes them pop! a sprinkle of chopped parsley on top adds that freshness, like a little confetti for your taste buds.
For sides, i suggest pairing with roasted asparagus or a light green salad drizzled with vinaigrette. you want something light to balance the rich, buttery sauce.
And don’t forget the beverages! a chilled glass of sauvignon blanc or even a zesty gin and tonic can take your dinner to the next level.
Honestly, you can't go wrong.
Storage Tips
Got leftovers? lucky you! these scallops don’t play hard to get; they can be stored in the fridge for about 1-2 days in an airtight container.
Just remember—reheat gently, using medium-low heat on a skillet, so they don’t get rubbery on you.
If you want to freeze them, wrap them up tight in plastic wrap, then pop them in a freezer bag.
They should be good for up to a month . just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations
If you're looking to spice things up, swap out the typical lemon for some orange or lime juice ; it’ll add a fruity zing that’s so refreshing! for a twist on your sauce, try a herb-infused version with fresh thyme or dill.
They're perfect for when the seasons change and those herbs are flourishing.
If you’re on a diet that doesn’t include seafood, go ahead and switch those scallops for some shrimp or firm white fish like cod.
Just keep an eye on the cooking time—cooking shrimp is a bit different, and we don’t want rubbery dinner!
Nutrition Basics
Let’s talk numbers! each serving of these scallops packs about 270 calories with a healthy dose of 25g of protein .
Plus, they’re low-carb, making them a fantastic option if you're keeping it light. those healthy fats from the butter offer a nice balance of richness without feeling guilty at all.
Did you know seafood like this is linked to improved heart health? it’s pretty remarkable!
In a nutshell, these scallops roasted are not just a treat—they’re a ticket to a healthy and delicious dinner. whether you’re whipping up a romantic night with scallops and steak dinner or hosting a get-together with some scallop casserole baked , you'll come away feeling all kinds of satisfied.
So go ahead, give it a try! You’ve got this and your taste buds will thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when the scallops are perfectly roasted?
Scallops are perfectly roasted when they are golden brown on the outside and opaque in the center, which usually takes about 10-12 minutes in a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven. Keep an eye on them as they can overcook quickly; you're aiming for that slight firmness when you press them gently.
Can I make scallops roasted in advance and reheat them later?
While it's best to enjoy scallops right after cooking, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
What should I serve with scallops roasted for a complete meal?
Scallops pair beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted asparagus, or creamy risotto. For an elegant touch, consider a glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing gin and tonic to complement the buttery flavors of the dish.
Are there any nutritional considerations for scallops roasted?
Scallops are a fantastic source of lean protein and are relatively low in calories, making them a healthy choice for many diets. They are also rich in vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids, though it's good to be mindful of any added fats from the butter sauce if you’re watching your calorie intake.
What are some creative variations for the lemon butter sauce?
You can jazz up your lemon butter sauce by adding fresh herbs like thyme or dill for a fragrant twist. For a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes. Alternatively, mix in some orange or lime juice for a citrusy medley that will brighten up your dish.
Can I use frozen scallops for scallops roasted?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops, but be sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before cooking. This helps to achieve that lovely crispy outer texture. It's advisable to let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes after thawing for more even cooking.