Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Caper Sauce is an elegant, simple seafood dish that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy dinners. The scallops are seared to golden perfection and topped with a tangy, buttery lemon caper sauce that adds a burst of fresh flavors. This dish is easy to prepare and pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or a light salad. With ingredients like white wine, garlic, capers, and fresh parsley, it brings Mediterranean-inspired flavors to your table.
Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Caper Sauce is an elegant, flavorful seafood dish that combines the rich taste of seared scallops with a tangy, buttery sauce. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe is perfect for a special dinner or cozy night at home.
INGREDIENTS
- Unsalted butter: 1/4 cup, creates a rich base for the sauce
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced for depth of flavor
- Salt: 1/4 tsp, seasons the sauce
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp, adds mild spice
- Red pepper flakes: 1/4 tsp, adds subtle heat
- Lemon zest: 1 tsp, brings bright citrus notes
- White wine: 1/3 cup, adds acidity and enhances flavor
- Sugar: 1 tsp, balances the tangy flavors
- Capers: 1 1/2 tbsp, rinsed, for briny contrast
- Lemon juice: 2 tbsp, adds fresh acidity
- Fresh parsley: 1 tbsp, chopped for garnish
- Sea scallops: 1 lb, patted dry to ensure a good sear
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 tbsp, for searing scallops
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp, helps prevent butter from burning
- Salt and pepper: to taste, for seasoning scallops
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown. Add garlic, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and lemon zest, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Step 2:
- Add white wine and sugar, reduce heat, and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in capers and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in lemon juice and parsley.
- Step 3:
- Heat 1/2 tbsp butter and olive oil in a separate pan over high heat. Season scallops with salt and pepper and sear for 1.5 minutes per side until golden.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve hot with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad.
- Leftover sauce can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
Helpful Notes
- Ensure scallops are dry before searing to achieve a golden crust.
- Deglaze the pan with white wine to enhance the sauce’s flavor.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Emma recommends using a nonstick pan and high heat for a perfect sear on the scallops.
Bringing Mediterranean Flavors to Your Plate
This dish is inspired by the fresh, bold flavors of the Mediterranean, combining garlic, lemon, and capers with seared scallops for a unique dining experience.
An Elegant Dish for Special Occasions
Whether for a date night or a dinner party, these Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Caper Sauce make an impressive, flavorful main course.
FAQs
What’s the best way to sear scallops?
Use high heat and make sure scallops are completely dry before searing for the best golden crust.
Can I substitute the white wine in the sauce?
Yes, chicken broth can be used as a substitute for white wine in the sauce.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftover sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can I use bay scallops instead?
Yes, bay scallops can be used, but adjust the cooking time as they are smaller and cook faster.
Summary
Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Caper Sauce is an elegant, flavorful dish that’s surprisingly simple to make. Fresh sea scallops are seared to golden perfection in a mixture of butter and olive oil, creating a tender, flavorful base. The lemon caper sauce adds a bright, tangy contrast to the rich scallops, made with ingredients like garlic, white wine, lemon zest, and capers. The sauce is finished with fresh parsley and a touch of lemon juice for a refreshing burst of flavor. Ideal for date nights or dinner parties, this dish is perfect served with pasta, rice, or a light, crisp salad. Enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean with this delightful recipe that balances rich and tangy flavors beautifully.