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Scallops in Lemon Wine Sauce


  • Author: Lusine Svetlana

Description

Treat yourself to a gourmet experience with our Scallops in Lemon Wine Sauce recipe. These succulent sea scallops are perfectly seared to golden perfection and then bathed in a luxurious sauce made with white wine, cream, garlic, butter, and fresh lemon juice. Elegant and exquisite, this dish is perfect for elevating any occasion, whether it’s a special dinner for two or a sophisticated gathering with friends and family.


Ingredients

  • 1 pound sea scallops
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter (divided)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup white wine
  • ⅔ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prep and Season Scallops: If scallops are frozen, defrost them in the fridge. Pat dry with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper.
  2. Sear the Scallops: Heat olive oil over high heat in a nonstick skillet. Once the oil is smoking, add the scallops and cook for 2 minutes or until golden brown. Flip the scallops over and cook for an additional 60 seconds or just until firm and browned. Be careful not to overcook. Remove the scallops from the heat and place them on a plate to rest.
  3. Prepare the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and wipe out the skillet with a paper towel. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan. Add minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the white wine and cook until reduced by half, about 3 minutes. Add the heavy cream and lemon juice. Simmer for 2 minutes more or until slightly thickened. Stir in the remaining butter.
  4. Serve and Garnish: Drizzle the sauce over the scallops and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Serving Tips:

  1. Plating Presentation: Arrange the seared scallops on individual plates and generously drizzle the lemon wine sauce over them for an elegant presentation that’s sure to impress your guests.
  2. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over the scallops just before serving to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
  3. Pairing Suggestions: Serve the scallops with crusty bread or toasted baguette slices to soak up every last bit of the delicious sauce. A side salad or steamed vegetables make excellent accompaniments for a well-balanced meal.
  4. Wine Pairing: Pair this dish with a crisp and refreshing white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay to complement the flavors of the lemon wine sauce and enhance the overall dining experience.
  5. Dinner Party Delight: Impress your dinner guests by serving the scallops as a luxurious appetizer or as the main course for a gourmet dinner party. Pair with a glass of champagne for a truly indulgent dining experience.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigeration: Store any leftover scallops and lemon wine sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
  2. Freezing: While scallops can be frozen, their texture may change slightly upon thawing. If freezing is necessary, store the scallops and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 1-2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  3. Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the scallops and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth or white wine to the sauce if needed to maintain its consistency.
  4. Avoid Overcooking: Be cautious not to overcook the scallops when reheating, as they can become tough and rubbery. Heat just until warmed through to preserve their delicate texture and flavor.
  5. Batch Cooking: Consider doubling the recipe and storing extra portions in the freezer for quick and convenient meals on busy days. Simply thaw and reheat as needed for a delicious and satisfying dinner option.