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Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops

Garlic Butter Baked Scallops is a quick and elegant seafood dish featuring tender scallops baked in a fragrant garlic and butter sauce, enhanced with lemon juice and fresh parsley. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this rich yet healthy recipe delivers restaurant-worthy flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 12 fresh dry-packed sea scallops (about 1 pound)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, freshly minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Scallops: Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring they bake evenly without steaming.
  2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add freshly minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Arrange Scallops in Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish and place the scallops in a single layer. Pour the garlic butter sauce evenly over them, making sure each scallop is well coated.
  4. Bake Until Tender: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the scallops for 10-12 minutes, or until they become opaque and slightly golden on top. Be careful not to overcook to keep them juicy and tender.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove the scallops from the oven and garnish with additional fresh parsley or lemon zest for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use dry-packed scallops for the best texture and flavor, as wet scallops can be watery and less flavorful.
  • Avoid overcooking the scallops to prevent a rubbery texture; remove as soon as they turn opaque.
  • Fresh minced garlic is recommended over garlic powder for the best authentic flavor.
  • Allow scallops to come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even baking.
  • High-quality unsalted butter enhances the richness and smoothness of the sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: Garlic Butter Baked Scallops, baked scallops, seafood recipe, garlic scallops, easy seafood dinner, gluten free seafood, elegant appetizers