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Crispy Pan-Seared Scallops Recipe Easy Brown Butter and Capers Delight

crispy pan-seared scallops - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for perfectly crispy pan-seared scallops served with a nutty brown butter and tangy caper sauce. Ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish delivers a gourmet flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) fresh sea scallops, preferably dry-packed
  • 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons capers, drained
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • Juice of half a lemon
  • Salt to taste, preferably flaky sea salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Trim the small side muscle if attached.
  2. Lightly season both sides of the scallops with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  3. Place a heavy skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Heat until shimmering but not smoking, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Carefully place scallops in the pan, spaced apart. Cook without moving for 2-3 minutes until the bottoms form a golden crust, then flip gently.
  5. Sear the other side for another 2 minutes until scallops are opaque but tender in the center.
  6. Lower heat to medium. Push scallops to the side and add butter to the pan. Let it melt and cook until golden brown and nutty, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Add minced garlic and capers, stirring quickly to combine. Remove from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the sauce.
  8. Spoon the brown butter and caper sauce over the scallops and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Pat scallops dry thoroughly to ensure a crispy sear. Do not overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming. Add butter after scallops have seared to prevent burning. Avoid flipping scallops more than once to keep them intact. For dairy-free option, substitute butter with coconut or avocado oil but note flavor changes.

Nutrition

Keywords: scallops, pan-seared scallops, brown butter, capers, seafood recipe, quick dinner, easy scallops, gluten-free, low-carb