Scallop Pan-Seared with Tasty Sauce

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €19.44 · €4.86/serving

• 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oilEst. price €0.08–€0.20
• Salt and freshly ground pepper to tasteEst. price €0.01–€0.03
• 1/2 cup of dry white wine or water, or more as requiredEst. price €0.25–€0.60
• 1 tablespoon of finely minced garlic (crushing the garlic releases more flavor)Est. price €0.10–€0.25
• 3 tablespoons of creamy butterEst. price €0.30–€0.75
• 1 1/2 pounds of plump sea scallopsEst. price €18.00–€30.00
• Juice of 1 fresh lemonEst. price €0.30–€0.70
• 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh chives (garnish with chives for a pop of color)Est. price €0.40–€0.90

Steps

1. 1

   Dice 2 tablespoons of butter into small pea-sized pieces and place them on a chilled plate in the freezer. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat for 3 to 4 minutes. Introduce the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and olive oil into the skillet, allowing the butter to slowly melt before proceeding.

2. 2

   Begin by drying the scallops using paper towels before placing them into a hot pan. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the scallops, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan, and cook them in batches if needed. Cook the scallops until they develop a golden brown color on each side, making sure they are not completely cooked through yet. This process typically takes around 2 minutes per side, adjusting as necessary based on the size of the scallops. Once done, transfer the seared scallops onto a plate for further use.

3. 3

   Add the minced garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and white wine into the skillet. Utilize a spatula to scrape off all the caramelized bits from the bottom of the pan. Reduce the heat to medium and allow the liquid in the skillet to reduce until it thickens slightly, which should take about a minute or two. Gradually incorporate the chilled butter pieces from the freezer into the skillet, one at a time, whisking continuously to create a velvety sauce. If needed, introduce an additional tablespoon or two of liquid to adjust the consistency of the sauce.

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• Cultural note

  Pan-seared scallops with a tasty sauce is a popular dish in many coastal regions around the world, especially in Mediterranean and Asian cuisines. The combination of garlic, butter, and white wine creates a rich and flavorful sauce that complements the delicate taste of scallops.

• Seasonal note

  Scallops are typically in season from fall to spring, making this dish ideal to enjoy during those months. Chives and lemon are also commonly available during the same period, enhancing the freshness of the dish.

• Health note

  This dish is a good source of protein and healthy fats, which can support muscle growth and provide energy. However, the high cholesterol and sodium content may not be suitable for individuals with specific dietary restrictions. The vitamin C from the lemon juice helps boost immunity.