Valentine Dinner Garlic Butter Scallops

Name: Valentine Dinner Garlic Butter Scallops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb large sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Occasion Inspiration

When I think of a romantic dinner, garlic butter scallops always come to mind. The delicate sweetness of scallops, paired with rich, melted garlic butter, creates an irresistible dish that feels indulgent and special. I love preparing this meal for Valentine’s Day or any date night because it’s surprisingly easy to make yet tastes elegant and upscale. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick cooking time, I can impress my loved ones and create a lovely atmosphere in the comfort of my own home.

Created by

Darcy Penrose

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:09:35.233Z

Preparing garlic butter scallops is a ritual I cherish, especially when cooking for someone special. It’s all about searing the scallops perfectly to achieve that golden crust while keeping the center tender and juicy. I've learned that using high-quality scallops makes a significant difference, and a hot pan is essential to sear them without sticking.

To enhance the dish further, I love finishing it with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and some chopped herbs. This brightens the flavors and adds a fresh touch that elevates the meal. Trust me, serve this with a glass of crisp white wine, and you’ll create a moment to remember.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Irresistibly tender scallops seared to perfection
Rich garlic butter sauce that compliments the seafood beautifully
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute romantic dinners

Choosing the Perfect Scallops

When selecting scallops for this recipe, opt for large sea scallops rather than bay scallops. Their size and texture allow for a great sear, resulting in that sought-after golden crust. Look for those that are firm and slightly translucent, avoiding any that appear dull or have a strong fishy smell. Fresh scallops should ideally be cooked the same day they are bought, but can safely be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

It's important to pat the scallops dry with paper towels before cooking. Excess moisture can prevent them from searing properly, leading to a steamed texture rather than the desired golden-brown exterior. If you notice any residual liquid, removing it will enhance their flavor and improve the overall presentation.

The Role of Garlic Butter

The garlic butter sauce not only elevates the scallops but also provides a rich, savory contrast to their sweetness. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the seasoning level precisely. You can also experiment with different butter options; for instance, ghee or a vegan butter substitute can be used if you're looking for a dairy-free variation without losing the beautiful buttery flavor.

For a more robust garlic flavor, feel free to use more than the four cloves suggested. Just remember to monitor the cooking time closely to prevent the garlic from burning, which can turn the sauce bitter. If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter during the garlic cooking phase.

Serving Suggestions

For a truly romantic presentation, serve the garlic butter scallops on a bed of creamy risotto or alongside a fresh arugula salad. The peppery greens provide a nice contrast and balance to the richness of the scallops. You can also pair them with a simple pasta dressed in olive oil and lemon, which allows the scallops to shine as the star of the meal.

To enhance the dining experience, consider pairing your dish with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lime. A light Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the scallops beautifully and resets the palate between bites. Don't forget to provide fresh crusty bread for soaking up that luscious garlic butter!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your garlic butter scallops:

Ingredients

1 lb large sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon

With these ingredients, you're ready to create a dish that your loved ones will rave about!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to cook your garlic butter scallops:

Sear the Scallops

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is bubbling, add the scallops, ensuring they are not crowded. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Season with salt and pepper.

Prepare the Garlic Butter

Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the pan. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and let it melt, stirring everything together.

Finish and Serve

Remove the scallops from the pan, drizzle them with the garlic butter sauce, and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your gourmet meal right away for the best flavor!

Pro Tips

For the best results, make sure your scallops are dry before searing, as moisture can prevent them from browning properly. Use a heavy skillet for even cooking.

Storing and Reheating

While garlic butter scallops are best enjoyed immediately after cooking, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. It's advisable to reheat them gently on low heat in a skillet to avoid rubbery textures. Adding a splash of fresh lemon juice during reheating can help refresh the flavor.

To freeze cooked scallops, transfer them to a freezer-safe container within an hour of cooking. They will maintain their best quality for about one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and again, use low heat to gently warm them up, ensuring tenderness.

Variations to Try

If you want to switch up the flavors, consider marinating the scallops for about 30 minutes in a mixture of olive oil, lemon zest, and soy sauce before cooking. This adds a delightful umami punch that complements the sweetness of the scallops wonderfully. For a unique twist, try adding a splash of white wine to the garlic butter after cooking the scallops, creating a delicious sauce.

For those opting for a low-carb alternative, replace traditional sides with cauliflower purée or sautéed leafy greens. Both options provide a great base that allows the garlic butter scallops to stand out while keeping the meal light and healthy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to achieve the best sear.

→ What wine pairs well with garlic butter scallops?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the dish beautifully.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Asparagus or spinach sautéed in the garlic butter makes for a delicious addition.

→ How do I know when scallops are done cooking?

Scallops should be opaque and firm to the touch when fully cooked, typically taking about 4-6 minutes total.