Scallops with Butter and Parsley
AI-generated image
Gluten-free French

Scallops with Butter and Parsley

Sweet sea scallops are quickly sautéed until golden, then finished with nutty butter, parsley, lemon, and a touch of garlic for a polished French appetizer.

23 min 4 servings Medium
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How to prepare

1
Pat the scallops dry once more and season both sides with the salt and black pepper. Leave them at room temperature for 5 minutes while preparing the pan.
2
Heat a large heavy skillet over medium-high heat for 2 minutes, then add the olive oil and 15 g of the butter. When the butter foams without browning, arrange the scallops in a single layer.
3
Sauté the scallops for 2 to 3 minutes without moving them, until the undersides are deeply golden and the scallops release easily. Turn and cook for 1 to 2 minutes more, until opaque nearly through and firm at the edges.
Golden scallops searing in a skillet AI-generated image
4
Transfer the scallops to warmed plates. Lower the heat to medium-low, add the remaining butter and garlic, and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the lemon zest, 15 ml lemon juice, and parsley; scrape up the browned bits for 30 seconds.
5
Spoon the hot lemon-parsley butter over the scallops and serve immediately while the crust is crisp and the centers are tender.
Scallops with butter, parsley, and lemon served on a plate AI-generated image

Why this recipe works

A very hot pan creates a caramelized crust before the scallops release their delicate juices. Butter, garlic, parsley, and lemon then form a bright, aromatic sauce that complements rather than masks their sweetness.

Storage and reheating

How to store it

Refrigerate leftovers in a covered container for up to 2 days. Store the scallops with their sauce to help retain moisture.

How to reheat it

Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat with a teaspoon of water for 2 to 3 minutes, just until warmed; do not boil the sauce or overcook the scallops.

Nutrition / serving

308kcal
35.30 gprotein
11.19 gcarbs
14.07 gfat
P
Pantryvale editorial kitchen
Recipe prepared for publication with complete ingredients and ordered cooking steps.
Published 15 Aug 2026 · updated 16 Aug 2026