Introduction
Scallops are a delicacy that can elevate any dining experience, making them perfect for special occasions or a simple yet elegant meal at home. This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of scallops while enhancing their flavor with butter, garlic, and fresh thyme. The addition of lemon wedges brings a refreshing brightness that perfectly complements this dish. Follow this guide to create a delicious scallop dish that is sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 ¼ pounds scallops (approximately 24)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1 clove garlic, minced
4 sprigs fresh thyme
1 lemon, cut into wedges
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Following these simple steps will guarantee that your scallops are perfectly cooked, golden brown on the outside and tender within. Enjoy your culinary creation!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Scallops
Remove the small side muscle from the scallops, rinse them under cold water, and thoroughly pat them dry with paper towels.
Season the Scallops
Sprinkle the scallops with ¾ teaspoon of kosher salt and ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
Melt the Butter
In a large cast iron skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium-high heat.
Cook the Scallops
Working in batches, add the scallops to the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for about 1-2 minutes per side, flipping once, until they are golden brown and translucent in the center. Once cooked, set the scallops aside and keep them warm.
Prepare the Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add in the remaining 5 tablespoons of butter, 1 tablespoon at a time, allowing each tablespoon to melt and foam before adding the next.
Add Garlic and Thyme
Once all the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and the sprigs of fresh thyme to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, which should take about 1 minute.
Combine Scallops with the Sauce
Return the cooked scallops to the skillet. Spoon the butter sauce over the scallops continuously for about 1 minute to ensure they are well-coated.
Serve
Serve the scallops immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.
Notes
Freshness of Scallops
Make sure to use fresh scallops for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen scallops, thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Cooking Temperature
A hot skillet is essential for achieving a nice sear on the scallops. Ensure that the skillet is properly preheated before adding the scallops.
Flavor Variations
Feel free to add additional herbs like parsley or use other citrus juices in place of lemon for different flavor profiles.
Serving Suggestions
These scallops pair well with a side of sautéed vegetables, a light salad, or over pasta with a light creamy sauce.
Cook techniques
Preparing Scallops
Rinse the scallops in cold water and pat them dry thoroughly to ensure they sear properly in the skillet.
Seasoning
Evenly season the scallops with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance their natural flavor before cooking.
Searing Scallops
Melt butter in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the scallops in batches, ensuring they are placed in a single layer to achieve a golden-brown crust.
Aromatizing Butter
After searing the scallops, reduce the heat and melt remaining butter. Add minced garlic and fresh thyme to infuse the butter with flavor.
Finishing in Butter
Return the seared scallops to the skillet and spoon the aromatic butter over them. This adds richness and enhances the scallops’ taste.
Serving
Serve the scallops immediately with lemon wedges for a fresh, zesty contrast to the rich butter.
FAQ
How do I know when scallops are fully cooked?
Scallops are done when they are golden brown on the outside and opaque in the center, usually taking about 1-2 minutes per side.
What type of butter should I use for cooking scallops?
Unsalted butter is recommended, as it allows you to control the seasoning of your dish.
Can I cook scallops without a cast iron skillet?
Yes, you can use any heavy-bottomed skillet; just ensure it can withstand high heat for proper searing.
What should I do if my scallops are tough or rubbery?
Overcooking is often the culprit; ensure they are cooked just until golden brown and opaque in the center.
Can I substitute fresh thyme with dried herbs?
Yes, but use less dried thyme as it is more concentrated; approximately 1/3 of the amount of fresh thyme is typically adequate.
Conclusion
This scallop dish is a delectable and elegant seafood option, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a special night in. The combination of garlic, thyme, and butter enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops, while the lemon adds a refreshing brightness that ties the flavors together. With this simple recipe, you can create a gourmet meal in just a few minutes.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Scallops with Creamy Risotto
Serve the scallops atop a creamy, cheesy risotto infused with garlic and Parmesan for a comforting and rich dish.
Scallops with Asparagus and Hollandaise
Pair the scallops with sautéed asparagus and drizzle with a buttery hollandaise sauce for a classic French combination.
Spicy Scallop Tacos
Transform the scallops into a vibrant taco filling, topped with a zesty slaw and avocado for a fresh twist.
Scallops and Bacon Skewers
Wrap each scallop in a piece of bacon, then grill or broil for a smoky, savory bite that pairs perfectly with a dipping sauce.
Scallops with Mango Salsa
Top the scallops with a fresh mango salsa made from diced mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime for a tropical flair.
