1. Prepare the Scallops:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season the Scallops:
Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps them sear nicely. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Prepare the Baking Dish:
Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Combine Ingredients:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped parsley, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
Taste and Adjust:
Taste the garlic butter sauce and adjust seasoning as needed. You can add more lemon juice for tanginess or more garlic for a stronger flavor.
3. Bake the Scallops:
Arrange the Scallops:
Place the seasoned scallops in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle half of the garlic butter sauce over the scallops.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque and cooked through. The scallops should be tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Broil (Optional):
For a golden, slightly crispy top, switch the oven to broil for the last 2 minutes of baking. Watch closely to avoid burning.
4. Serve:
Garnish and Serve:
Remove the scallops from the oven and drizzle the remaining garlic butter sauce over them. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Enjoy:
Serve immediately, either as an appetizer or over a bed of rice, pasta, or alongside a fresh salad.
Tips for Success:
Dry Scallops: Ensure scallops are thoroughly patted dry to get a nice sear and to prevent excess moisture from diluting the butter sauce.
Butter Substitutes: You can use ghee or a plant-based butter substitute if you prefer a dairy-free option.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Just reheat it before drizzling over the scallops.
Conclusion:
Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are a delightful and elegant dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly flavorful. The combination of tender scallops with a rich garlic butter sauce creates a sophisticated meal that’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home. Enjoy these scallops with your favorite sides for a truly memorable dining experience!
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