Delicious Diver Scallops with Garlic Butter Sauce: A Recipe for Gourmet Success

by Oleg Nikitenko December 13, 2024

Scallops Butter Sauce Recipe

Diver scallops are among the most coveted seafood delicacies, prized for their sweet flavor, tender texture, and eco-friendly harvesting methods. Pairing these scallops with a rich garlic butter sauce creates a dish that’s as indulgent as it is simple to prepare.

In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into creating the perfect diver scallop dish, covering everything from sourcing premium scallops to cooking them to perfection. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned chef, this recipe will elevate your culinary skills.

What Are Diver Scallops?

Diver scallops are hand-harvested from the ocean floor by professional divers, making them an environmentally sustainable choice. They are:

  • Fresh: Often fresher than trawl-caught scallops.
  • Tender: Known for their delicate texture and sweetness.
  • Eco-Friendly: Harvested with minimal disruption to the marine environment.

For premium options, consider Jumbo Sea Scallops or Hokkaido Scallops , both excellent for this recipe.

Why Garlic Butter Sauce Is the Perfect Pairing

Garlic butter sauce enhances the natural sweetness of scallops with its rich, savory flavor. Its simplicity ensures the scallops remain the star of the dish while adding depth and richness.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Scallops

To prepare this dish, you’ll need:

  • 1 lb of Diver Scallops: Choose Alaskan Pink Scallops or Smoked Weathervane Scallops for unique flavors.
  • Garlic Butter Sauce:
    • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
    • 4 cloves garlic, minced
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
    • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Diver Scallops with Garlic Butter Sauce

1. Prepare the Scallops

  1. Thaw and Rinse: If frozen, thaw scallops overnight in the refrigerator. Rinse under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.
  2. Remove the Side Muscle: Gently remove the small, tough muscle on the side of each scallop.

2. Heat the Pan

  1. Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan for even heat distribution.
  2. Heat the pan over medium-high heat and add olive oil to prevent butter from burning.

3. Sear the Scallops

  1. Season scallops with salt and pepper.
  2. Place scallops in the hot pan, ensuring they are spaced apart.
  3. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding to ensure a perfect sear.

Pro Tip: “A good sear is about patience. Let the scallops cook undisturbed for that beautiful crust,” advises Chef Thomas Keller, a celebrated culinary expert.

4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

  1. Remove scallops from the pan and reduce the heat to medium.
  2. Add butter to the pan and let it melt.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
  4. Add lemon juice and parsley, stirring to combine.

5. Combine and Serve

  1. Return scallops to the pan and spoon the garlic butter sauce over them.
  2. Serve immediately with your choice of sides, such as pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

Pairing Suggestions

  1. Vegetable Side Dishes: Roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli complement the richness of the sauce.
  2. Starchy Accompaniments: Garlic mashed potatoes or buttered noodles make excellent bases for soaking up the sauce.
  3. Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay enhances the dish’s flavors.

Tips for Perfect Scallops Every Time

  1. Dry Them Thoroughly: Moisture prevents scallops from achieving a golden sear. Pat them dry before cooking.
  2. Use High Heat: A hot pan ensures a quick sear without overcooking the interior.
  3. Don’t Overcook: Scallops are done when they are opaque and firm but not rubbery.

Why Choose Global Seafoods for Diver Scallops?

Global Seafoods offers a curated selection of high-quality scallops that are perfect for this recipe. Options include:

FAQs About Diver Scallops with Garlic Butter Sauce

1. Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, frozen scallops work well if thawed properly. For best results, try Alaskan Pink Scallops .

2. How do I store leftover scallops?
Store cooked scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

3. Can I add other ingredients to the sauce?
Absolutely! White wine, capers, or crushed red pepper flakes are great additions.

4. What’s the best way to reheat scallops?
Reheat scallops gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve their texture.

5. How do I know if scallops are fresh?
Fresh scallops should have a mild, sweet smell. Avoid scallops with a strong fishy odor.

6. Where can I buy premium diver scallops?
Explore Global Seafoods for a wide selection of top-quality scallops.

Conclusion

Diver scallops with garlic butter sauce are a timeless dish that combines elegance and simplicity. By using high-quality ingredients and following our detailed recipe, you can create a gourmet experience in your own kitchen.

Elevate your meals with the finest diver scallops from Global Seafoods and impress your family or guests with this delicious, restaurant-quality dish.

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