Seared Scallops & Brussels with Lemon Butter

Seared Scallops & Brussels with Lemon Butter is a delightful dish that combines the sweet taste of scallops with the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts, all enhanced by a zesty lemon butter sauce. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home. Its simplicity allows you to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The savory scallops paired with roasted Brussels sprouts create a mouthwatering experience.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, this dish is great for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad to customize to your liking.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and elegant plating make it a showstopper on any table.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and nutrients, this dish is both satisfying and wholesome.

Tools and Preparation

To make Seared Scallops & Brussels with Lemon Butter, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help ensure your cooking process goes smoothly and efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or grill
• Baking sheet
• Saucepan
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or grill: Ideal for achieving the perfect sear on the scallops, enhancing their flavor.
• Baking sheet: Ensures even roasting of the Brussels sprouts for that tender-crisp texture.
• Saucepan: Essential for making the smooth lemon butter sauce that ties everything together.

Ingredients

For the Scallops:

• 1 pound sea scallops
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

For the Brussels Sprouts:

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Seared Scallops & Brussels with Lemon Butter

Step 1: Sear the Scallops

To start, preheat your skillet or grill to medium-high heat.
1. Season the scallops with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Sear each scallop for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are cooked through.

Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

While the scallops are cooking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
1. In a mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes until they are tender-crisp.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat:
1. Melt the butter until it’s completely liquid.
2. Whisk in lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
3. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 4: Assemble Your Dish

On a serving platter:
1. Arrange roasted Brussels sprouts evenly.
2. Top them with seared scallops.
3. Drizzle generously with your homemade lemon butter sauce.

Tips

You can use any type of scallops you like for this recipe. For a spicier sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to enhance flavor. Serve alongside your favorite side dishes such as rice, quinoa, or a green salad to complete your meal. Enjoy!

How to Serve Seared Scallops & Brussels with Lemon Butter

Seared scallops and Brussels sprouts with lemon butter make for a stunning and delicious dish. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful meal.

Pairing with Grains

• Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa adds a nutty flavor and complements the dish perfectly.
• Rice: A simple side of steamed white or brown rice absorbs the lemon butter sauce well.
• Couscous: Light and airy, couscous can balance the richness of the scallops.

Adding Fresh Greens

• Mixed Green Salad: Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the warm scallops.
• Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach adds color and nutrients, enhancing the overall meal.

Enjoying with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover lemon butter sauce.
• Crusty Baguette: A slice of fresh baguette makes for an excellent accompaniment, adding texture to your plate.

How to Perfect Seared Scallops & Brussels with Lemon Butter

Perfecting this dish requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your cooking experience.

• Bold seasoning: Ensure you season both scallops and Brussels sprouts generously. This enhances their natural flavors.
• High heat cooking: Use medium-high heat when searing scallops for that beautiful golden crust while keeping them tender inside.
• Fresh ingredients: Always use fresh scallops and Brussels sprouts for the best taste and texture in your dish.
• Rest before serving: Allow the scallops to rest briefly after cooking. This helps retain their juices and improves flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Seared Scallops & Brussels with Lemon Butter

Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options that pair wonderfully with seared scallops and Brussels sprouts.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting addition.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus roasted until tender offers a vibrant touch alongside your main dish.
3. Herbed Quinoa Salad: A refreshing salad with herbs brings brightness and freshness to the table.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli provides crunch and balances out the richness of the main dish.
5. Sweet Potato Wedges: Crispy sweet potato wedges give a hint of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with lemon butter flavor.
6. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option, cauliflower rice provides volume without overpowering other flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Seared Scallops & Brussels with Lemon Butter turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the Drying Step: Not patting the scallops dry can prevent them from searing properly. Always use a paper towel to remove excess moisture for a perfect golden crust.

• Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too many scallops in the skillet can lead to steaming instead of searing. Cook in smaller batches for better results.

• Not Preheating Properly: Failing to heat the skillet enough before adding scallops can result in uneven cooking. Ensure your skillet is hot before you start cooking.

• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your dish bland. Be generous with spices and seasoning, especially on both the scallops and Brussels sprouts.

• Rushing the Cooking Process: Cooking at too high a temperature can cause burning. Maintain medium-high heat and cook scallops for 2-3 minutes per side for optimal texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2-3 days for best quality.

Freezing Seared Scallops & Brussels with Lemon Butter

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Seared Scallops & Brussels with Lemon Butter

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Seared Scallops & Brussels with Lemon Butter.

How do I choose fresh scallops?

Select scallops that appear moist and slightly translucent with a sweet sea scent. Avoid any that smell overly fishy or have a dull appearance.

Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, frozen scallops work well. Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to achieve a good sear.

What can I substitute for butter?

For a dairy-free version, consider using plant-based margarine or olive oil to create your lemon sauce without compromising flavor.

How do I store leftover lemon butter sauce?

Store any leftover lemon butter sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Reheat gently before using again.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include other seasonal vegetables like asparagus or green beans for added flavor and nutrition alongside your Seared Scallops & Brussels with Lemon Butter.

Final Thoughts

Seared Scallops & Brussels with Lemon Butter is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and textures, making it perfect for any occasion. The recipe’s versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite sides or additional veggies. Enjoy this elegant meal that’s simple yet impressive!