Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops over Rice

• 1 ½ cups uncooked white rice
• 3 cups water
• 1 pound sea scallops, patted dry
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Steps

1. 1 Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain.
2. 2 In a medium saucepan, combine rice and water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until tender.
3. 3 While rice cooks, pat scallops dry and season with salt and pepper.
4. 4 Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add scallops and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
5. 5 Remove scallops from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
6. 6 Stir in lemon zest and juice, then return scallops to skillet to reheat briefly in the sauce.
7. 7 Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and serve immediately, topped with scallops and sauce.
8. 8 Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Medium saucepan

Variations

• Add a splash of white wine to the skillet when sautéing the garlic for extra flavor.
• Top with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Substitutions

• Use vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the rice for added depth of flavor.
• Substitute scallops with shrimp for a similar seafood experience.

Pairings

• A zesty lemon wedge on the side.
• A crusty baguette to mop up the delicious sauce.

Nutrition

Tips

• For perfectly seared scallops, make sure they are completely dry before cooking.
• Adjust lemon juice to taste if you prefer a tangier sauce.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

Freezing: Not recommended due to texture changes in the scallops.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of sautéed spinach or a fresh garden salad.
• Pair with a crisp white wine for a delightful dining experience.

FAQ