Golden, tender, and bursting with flavor, these pan-seared scallops are a simple yet elegant keto-friendly dinner. Cooked in olive oil and finished with garlic butter, each scallop develops a perfect crust while staying juicy inside. A squeeze of fresh lemon and a sprinkle of parsley bring brightness and balance to the rich, savory notes. Serve them hot straight from the skillet for a restaurant-quality dish that’s ready in under 10 minutes.
Ingredients
1 lb sea scallops (about 12 large)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Lemon wedges, for serving
Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Directions
Prep Scallops: Pat the scallops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Heat Pan: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Sear Scallops: Place scallops in the pan without crowding. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until a golden crust forms. Don’t move them around while searing.
Add Flavor: In the last minute of cooking, add butter and garlic. Spoon the melted butter over the scallops to baste.
Serve: Remove scallops from heat. Plate and drizzle with pan juices. Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
The Tasty Times
Sign up for our mailing list for the latest recipes