Valentine Dinner Garlic Butter Scallops

Name: Valentine Dinner Garlic Butter Scallops
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 12 large sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Celebration Cooking

We absolutely love making Valentine's Day special, and these garlic butter scallops are a standout dish in our celebrations. When I first made them, I was taken aback by how such a simple recipe could be so delicious! The combination of succulent scallops sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce creates an unforgettable flavor experience that's perfect for a romantic dinner. Pair these with a crisp white wine and a side of asparagus for a meal that will sweep your loved one off their feet. Trust me, this dish will elevate your evening!

Created by

Arden Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-01-13T07:31:37.121Z

When I decided to make garlic butter scallops for our Valentine's dinner, I had no idea it would become one of my favorite recipes. The key to success is using fresh scallops and not overcrowding the pan, ensuring that they sear beautifully. I experimented with adding a squeeze of lemon for brightness and found it was the perfect finishing touch!

Over the years, I've learned that high-quality ingredients make all the difference. Whether it’s the garlic or the butter, each component should shine. I love serving the scallops atop a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, which complements the rich sauce beautifully. Your loved ones will be begging for seconds!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Tender scallops infused with rich garlic butter flavor
Quick preparation makes it perfect for a romantic dinner at home
Beautiful presentation that impresses without the stress

Scallop Selection and Preparation

Choosing the right scallops is crucial for a successful dish. Look for large sea scallops that are plump and have a slightly translucent appearance. Avoid scallops that appear dry or discolored, as they may have been previously frozen or are past their prime. When preparing, ensure they are thoroughly cleaned and dried to achieve that perfect sear; moisture can prevent the lovely crust from forming.

Another important step is to season the scallops adequately before they hit the pan. A light sprinkling of salt and pepper enhances their natural sweetness and allows the garlic butter sauce to shine through later. Patting them dry will prevent them from steaming instead of frying, ensuring a better texture.

Mastering the Garlic Butter Sauce

The garlic butter sauce is what elevates these scallops to a luxurious level. Using unsalted butter gives you control over the seasoning, allowing you to customize the saltiness to your preference. Cook the garlic just until fragrant; this takes about a minute. Overcooking it can lead to bitterness, which would diminish the sauce's overall quality. You’ll know it’s ready when it starts to become golden and aromatic.

Incorporating lemon juice not only brightens the flavors but also balances the richness of the butter. If you prefer a little spice or depth, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of white wine to the sauce as it cooks, which can add another layer of complexity to your romantic dinner.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a truly romantic presentation, serve the scallops on a bed of lightly sautéed asparagus or over a creamy risotto. Adding a splash of fresh herbs like chives or dill can enhance the dish visually and flavor-wise. Pair it with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or another crisp white wine to elevate the dining experience.

If you're looking to switch things up, consider adding other ingredients to the sauce. A tablespoon of capers can add a delightful brininess, or you could toss in some cherry tomatoes for sweetness. If you need to scale the recipe up for more guests, simply double the scallops and butter but ensure not to overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious plate of garlic butter scallops:

Ingredients

12 large sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your garlic butter scallops:

Prepare the Scallops

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Season the scallops with salt and pepper. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the scallops to the pan.

Sear the Scallops

Cook the scallops without moving them for about 2-3 minutes, or until they develop a golden crust. Flip them gently using tongs and cook for another 2-3 minutes until opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Return the scallops to the pan, spooning the sauce gently over them to coat.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve the scallops immediately. Enjoy your delightful Valentine’s dinner!

Serve hot and savor every bite of this delectable dish!

Pro Tips

Ensure the scallops are patted dry before cooking to achieve a perfect sear. Don’t overcrowd the pan to maintain high heat, which allows for that beautiful golden crust.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

One common issue is undercooking the scallops, leaving them rubbery rather than tender. When cooking, watch for a golden crust and a firm, opaque center. If they're still transparent in the middle after flipping, simply give them an extra minute on each side, reducing heat if necessary to prevent burning.

Conversely, overcooking is another pitfall. Scallops cook quickly, and a minute too long can make them tough. To remedy this, always keep a close eye during the cooking process and err on the side of caution; remember that residual heat can continue to cook them even after they are removed from the skillet.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you need to prepare this dish in advance, cook the scallops and sauce separately. Scallops can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day; just reheat them gently in a pan over low heat to avoid overcooking. The garlic butter sauce can also be prepared and kept sealed in an airtight container for a similar duration.

Freezing cooked scallops is not recommended, as the texture may suffer once thawed. However, the garlic butter sauce can be frozen for up to a month. Simply thaw and reheat when you’re ready to serve them again—just be cautious when reintroducing the scallops to prevent them from becoming tough.

Flavor Pairing Ideas

To enhance the overall flavor profile of your dish, consider incorporating complementary flavors on the plate. A light salad with arugula or mixed greens, drizzled with a simple lemon vinaigrette, offers a refreshing contrast to the rich scallops. Roasted or grilled vegetables can also make for a beautiful and nutritious side that balances out the dish's richness.

For an added touch of elegance, finishing the dish with a sprinkle of microgreens or edible flowers can make it visually stunning, perfect for impressing your Valentine. Additionally, consider adding side items like garlic mashed potatoes or a fluffy quinoa pilaf that can soak up the garlic butter sauce beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, but make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

→ What can I serve with scallops?

They pair nicely with mashed potatoes, pasta, or a fresh salad.

→ How can I tell when scallops are cooked?

Scallops are done when they are opaque and firm to the touch. They should not be rubbery.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!