| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 215 | 18g | 7g | 3g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 1g | 1g | 15g | 1.2g |
I’m thrilled to share with you my love for this exquisite recipe, Pan-fried Scallops with Samphire and Lemon Butter Sauce. Growing up in Texas, my culinary journey was deeply influenced by the bold, vibrant Tex-Mex flavors, yet my palate constantly yearned for fresh, coastal-inspired dishes that offer a perfect harmony of flavors and textures, much like this delightful recipe.
The Perfect Ocean Symphony
What makes this recipe so special is its ability to transport you straight to the ocean with just one bite. The marriage of pan-fried scallops with samphire – also known as sea beans – creates an exquisite pairing that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Samphire brings a salty, crisp flavor that complements the rich, succulent scallops perfectly.
The magic happens when you combine these with a luscious lemon butter sauce, rich with the tang of freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest, delicately infused with the aromatic essence of garlic and a touch of white wine. This dish feels like a warm, coastal breeze, balancing simplicity and elegance in every savory mouthful.
Nutritional Benefits
Not only is this recipe delightful to the taste buds, but it’s also packed with great nutritional benefits. Scallops are a powerhouse of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth, and they are rich in important minerals like selenium and zinc, which play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy immune system. Samphire, on the other hand, is renowned for its high nutrient content. It’s an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and B-complex, which are vital for maintaining good vision, a healthy immune system, and effective energy production respectively. This recipe is a nutritious, guilt-free indulgence that won’t weigh you down.
You might find that these Pan-fried Scallops with Samphire and Lemon Butter Sauce remind you of other classic seafood dishes like seafood pasta or lemon-garlic shrimp. Each of these dishes highlights the natural flavors of the ocean in simple yet impressive ways, making them perfect for any occasion. And if you’re looking for a fabulous pairing, this recipe works wonderfully alongside a fresh, crisp salad or a light, flavorful risotto.
Whether you’re treating yourself on a quiet night or impressing guests with your culinary skills, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite. Enjoy every bite of this elegant and nourishing creation.
What You’ll Need
- 18 large sea scallops
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound fresh samphire (sea beans)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 lemons, juiced and zested
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Method
Step One
Pat the sea scallops dry with paper towels to ensure they will brown properly. Season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Step Two
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the scallops in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step Three
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step Four
Add the fresh samphire to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still crisp. Remove the samphire from the skillet and set aside.
Step Five
In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter starts to foam, add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and white wine (if using). Allow the sauce to simmer for about 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
Step Six
Return the scallops to the skillet, spooning some of the lemon butter sauce over them. Let them warm through for about 1 minute.
Step Seven
To serve, plate the samphire and arrange the scallops on top. Drizzle with more lemon butter sauce and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
