Name: Creamy Garlic Scallops Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1¼ lb Scallops; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1½ tbsp garlic; salt and fresh ground black pepper; ¼ cup dry white wine; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp lemon juice; ¼ cup parsley

This creamy garlic scallops recipe is a delightful dish that combines the richness of heavy cream with the sharpness of garlic and the zest of lemon juice. Perfect for a special dinner or a weeknight treat, these scallops are seared to perfection and coated in a luxurious sauce that will leave your taste buds craving more.

Photos of Creamy Garlic Scallops Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe may not be staples in every household. For instance, scallops are often purchased fresh or frozen and may require a trip to the seafood section. Dry white wine is another ingredient that might not be readily available in your pantry, but you can find it in the wine or liquor section of your supermarket. Lastly, heavy cream is essential for the sauce's richness and can usually be found in the dairy aisle.

Ingredients For Creamy Garlic Scallops Recipe

Olive oil: Used for frying the scallops to give them a crispy and browned texture.

Scallops: The main protein of the dish, tender and sweet when cooked properly.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness to the sauce and helps carry the flavors of the garlic and wine.

Garlic: Provides a fragrant and slightly spicy flavor that complements the scallops.

Salt and fresh ground black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the overall taste.

Dry white wine: Adds acidity and depth to the sauce, helping to balance its richness.

Heavy cream: The base of the creamy sauce, giving it a smooth and luxurious texture.

Lemon juice: Adds a touch of acidity and freshness to brighten the dish.

Parsley: Used as a garnish to add color and a hint of herbal freshness.

One reader, Jammie Dietz says:

This creamy garlic scallops recipe is a game-changer! The scallops are perfectly seared, and the garlic cream sauce is divine. It's an elegant dish that's surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for impressing guests or a special dinner at home. Absolutely delicious!

Jammie Dietz

Techniques Required

How to thaw scallops: Place frozen scallops in a bowl of cold water until they are fully thawed. How to remove side muscles from scallops: Gently pull off the small, tough muscle on the side of each scallop. How to pat dry scallops: Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the scallops to ensure a good sear. How to heat oil in a pan: Heat olive oil in a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat until it is hot and sizzling. How to fry scallops: Place scallops in a single layer in the hot pan, season with salt and pepper, and fry for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they are crisp and lightly browned. How to scrape browned bits: Use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits left in the pan after removing the scallops. How to simmer wine: Pour wine into the pan and bring it to a simmer, allowing it to reduce by half. How to thicken cream: Add cream to the pan and simmer until it slightly thickens. How to garnish with parsley: Chop parsley and sprinkle it over the dish before serving.

How To Make Creamy Garlic Scallops

This scallops recipe comes with a creamy and garlicky sauce for a more indulgent meal. It’s the perfect one-pan easy meal to whip up for dinner tonight.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 5 minutes

Total: 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2tbspolive oil
1¼lbscallops
2tbspunsalted butter,divided
1½tbspgarlic,minced
salt and fresh ground black pepper,to taste
¼cupdry white wine,or broth, optional
1cupheavy cream,light, full fat, or thickened cream
1tbsplemon juice
¼cupparsley,chopped

Instructions

Thaw the frozen scallops in water, then remove the side muscles from the scallops, if attached.
Thoroughly pat dry the scallops with paper towels.
Heat the olive oil in a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat until hot and sizzling.
Add the scallops in a single layer without over crowding the pan.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Fry for 2 to 3 minutes on one side, then flip and fry again for 2 minutes until crisp, lightly browned and cooked through.
Remove the scallops from the skillet, then transfer to a plate.
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the same pan, scraping up any browned bits left over from the scallops.
Add in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the wine, then bring to a simmer for 2 minutes or until wine reduces by about half.
Add the cream, then allow to simmer until slightly thickened.
Remove pan from the heat, then stir in the lemon juice.
Add the scallops back into the pan to warm through slightly, then garnish with parsley.
Serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 434.46kcal
Fat: 35.30g
Saturated Fat: 18.48g
Trans Fat: 0.24g
Monounsaturated Fat: 12.86g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.95g
Carbohydrates: 8.57g
Fiber: 0.38g
Sugar: 1.97g
Protein: 18.79g
Cholesterol: 130.80mg
Sodium: 582.74mg
Calcium: 64.64mg
Potassium: 394.49mg
Iron: 1.00mg
Vitamin A: 310.51µg
Vitamin C: 7.81mg

Technique Tip for This Recipe

To achieve a perfect sear on your scallops, make sure they are thoroughly patted dry before cooking. Moisture on the surface will cause them to steam rather than sear, preventing that desirable golden crust.

How to Save Time on This Recipe

Thaw in advance: Thaw scallops in the fridge overnight to save time.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out olive oil, butter, garlic, and wine before starting.

Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using pre-minced garlic from a jar.

Simultaneous tasks: While scallops cook, prepare the parsley and other ingredients.

High heat sear: Ensure the pan is hot to quickly sear scallops and develop a crust.

One-pan method: Use the same pan for scallops and sauce to reduce cleanup time.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Garlic Scallops Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a similar smoke point and neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for cooking scallops.
scallops - Substitute with shrimp: Shrimp has a similar texture and cooks quickly, making it a suitable replacement for scallops in this recipe.
unsalted butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee has a rich, buttery flavor and a higher smoke point, making it a good alternative for sautéing.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a mild, sweet flavor that can complement the dish similarly to garlic.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar level of saltiness along with a depth of umami flavor.
fresh ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used to maintain the dish's seasoning without altering the taste significantly.
dry white wine - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can provide a similar depth of flavor without the alcohol content.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream provides a rich, creamy texture and can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, making it a good substitute for lemon juice.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro provides a fresh, herbaceous flavor that can complement the dish similarly to parsley.

Best Way to Present This Dish

Use a large white plate: The simplicity of a white plate will allow the colors of the scallops and sauce to stand out, creating a visually appealing presentation.
Arrange scallops in a circular pattern: Place the scallops in a neat circle or semi-circle, leaving space in the center for the sauce.
Drizzle the sauce artistically: Use a spoon to drizzle the creamy garlic sauce around and over the scallops, ensuring it looks elegant and not too heavy.
Garnish with fresh parsley: Finely chop the parsley and sprinkle it lightly over the scallops and sauce for a pop of color and freshness.
Add a lemon twist: Place a thin twist of lemon on the side of the plate to add a touch of brightness and a hint of acidity.
Use microgreens for a touch of sophistication: Add a small cluster of microgreens on top of the scallops or beside them to elevate the dish's presentation.
Serve with a side of crusty bread: Place a small piece of crusty bread on the side of the plate to complement the creamy garlic sauce and add texture.
Finish with a light drizzle of olive oil: Just before serving, add a light drizzle of olive oil over the entire dish to give it a beautiful sheen and enhance the flavors.

Best Tools for This Recipe

Large pan or skillet: This is essential for searing the scallops and creating the creamy garlic sauce. A wide surface area ensures even cooking and prevents overcrowding.
Paper towels: Used to thoroughly pat dry the scallops, which is crucial for achieving a good sear.
Tongs: Handy for flipping the scallops without damaging their delicate texture.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring the olive oil, butter, garlic, and lemon juice.
Measuring cup: Used to measure the dry white wine and heavy cream precisely.
Knife: For finely chopping the garlic and parsley.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping garlic and parsley.
Spatula: Useful for scraping up the browned bits from the pan and stirring the sauce.
Plate: To transfer the cooked scallops temporarily while you prepare the sauce.
Whisk: Helps in mixing the cream and lemon juice into the sauce smoothly.
Serving dish: For presenting the finished creamy garlic scallops elegantly.

How To Store / Freeze This Recipe

Refrigeration:
- Allow the scallops to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Transfer the scallops and sauce into an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- When ready to enjoy, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture.
Freezing:
- Cool the scallops completely before freezing.
- Place the scallops in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
- Pour the sauce into a separate freezer-safe container.
- Label and date the containers, then freeze for up to 2 months.
- To reheat, thaw the scallops and sauce in the refrigerator overnight.
- Warm the sauce in a skillet over low heat, then add the scallops and heat through gently.
Tips for Best Results:
- Avoid overcooking when reheating to maintain the tender texture of the scallops.
- If the sauce separates during reheating, whisk in a small amount of heavy cream to bring it back together.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving to refresh the flavors.

How To Reheat Leftovers

Place the leftover creamy garlic scallops in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
When ready to reheat, remove the scallops from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil or unsalted butter to prevent sticking.
Add the scallops to the skillet in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
Gently reheat the scallops for about 2-3 minutes on each side, being careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.
While the scallops are reheating, pour the leftover creamy garlic sauce into a small saucepan.
Heat the sauce over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from separating or burning.
If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of heavy cream or dry white wine to loosen it up.
Once the scallops are warmed through and the sauce is heated, combine them in the skillet, gently stirring to coat the scallops with the sauce.
Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Serve immediately and enjoy the reheated creamy garlic scallops with your favorite side dish.

Random Fact About This Recipe

A fun fact about this creamy garlic scallops recipe is that scallops are a great source of lean protein and are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, magnesium, and potassium.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This creamy garlic scallops recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The main expense comes from the scallops, which can be pricey depending on the region. However, the other ingredients like olive oil, garlic, heavy cream, and parsley are relatively affordable. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30 USD. Overall Verdict: 7/10.

Healthy or Unhealthy?

This creamy garlic scallops recipe is a delightful indulgence, but let's break down its health profile.

Healthy Aspects:

Scallops: High in protein and low in fat, scallops are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.
Garlic: Known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
Olive Oil: A healthy fat that can help reduce bad cholesterol levels.

Unhealthy Aspects:

Heavy Cream: High in saturated fats and calories, which can contribute to heart disease and weight gain if consumed in excess.
Butter: Adds more saturated fat and calories.
Salt: Excessive salt can lead to high blood pressure.

To make this dish healthier, consider the following adjustments:

Replace heavy cream with a lighter alternative: Use half-and-half or a mixture of low-fat milk and a small amount of cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
Reduce butter: Substitute half the butter with more olive oil or use a heart-healthy spread.
Lower the salt: Use herbs and spices to enhance flavor without adding extra salt.
Add vegetables: Incorporate spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to boost the nutritional content and add more fiber.

Editor's Thoughts on This Recipe

This creamy garlic scallops recipe is a delightful balance of rich flavors and textures. The seared scallops provide a crisp, golden exterior while remaining tender inside. The garlic-infused butter and wine reduction add depth, and the heavy cream creates a luxurious sauce. Lemon juice introduces a refreshing acidity, cutting through the richness. Garnishing with parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness. This dish is elegant yet straightforward, making it perfect for both special occasions and weeknight dinners.

Enhance Your Creamy Garlic Scallops Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Imagine the creamy, buttery goodness of mashed potatoes infused with the aromatic essence of garlic. This side dish will perfectly complement the rich, velvety sauce of your creamy garlic scallops, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Crisp, tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection and finished with a bright touch of lemon zest. This side dish adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the scallops, making each bite a delightful experience.

Wild Rice Pilaf: Wild Rice Pilaf: A medley of wild rice and vegetables cooked in a savory broth, offering a nutty and earthy flavor profile. This side dish provides a wonderful textural contrast and a hearty base that pairs beautifully with the creamy scallops.

Citrus Arugula Salad: Citrus Arugula Salad: A vibrant mix of peppery arugula, juicy citrus segments, and a light vinaigrette. This refreshing salad adds a burst of color and a zesty tang that cuts through the richness of the scallops, creating a balanced and invigorating meal.

Parmesan Polenta: Parmesan Polenta: Creamy polenta enriched with the savory depth of Parmesan cheese. This comforting side dish offers a smooth and cheesy backdrop that enhances the luxurious texture of the scallops, making every bite a decadent delight.

Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dish

Lemon Butter Shrimp: Dive into a plate of succulent shrimp bathed in a luscious lemon butter sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend meal. Serve it over a bed of pasta or alongside a fresh salad for a complete experience.

Garlic Butter Lobster Tails: Indulge in the rich flavors of lobster tails smothered in a decadent garlic butter sauce. This luxurious dish is surprisingly easy to prepare and will make any dinner feel like a special occasion. Pair it with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken: Transport your taste buds to Tuscany with this creamy, flavorful chicken dish. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a rich cream sauce creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Serve it with crusty bread or rice to soak up every last drop of the delicious sauce.

Garlic Parmesan Crusted Salmon: Elevate your salmon game with a crispy garlic parmesan crust. This dish is both healthy and indulgent, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Serve it with a side of steamed asparagus or quinoa for a well-rounded meal.

Scallop Risotto: Combine the delicate flavors of scallops with the creamy goodness of risotto for a dish that is pure comfort food. The addition of parmesan cheese and a hint of white wine elevates this dish to gourmet status. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete dining experience.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these Stuffed Mushrooms. Imagine plump, juicy mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The filling is rich and creamy, perfectly complementing the earthy flavor of the mushrooms. A touch of Parmesan cheese adds a delightful, crispy top layer. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of flavor in every mouthful.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with a classic Bruschetta. Freshly toasted baguette slices are topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar enhance the flavors, making each bite a perfect balance of freshness and tang. This appetizer is not only delicious but also visually appealing, with its bright colors and enticing aroma.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a decadent molten chocolate cake with a gooey center that oozes out as you cut into it. This dessert is a perfect balance of rich dark chocolate and a light, airy cake. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an indulgent treat that will leave your guests in awe. The contrast between the warm, flowing chocolate and the cold, creamy ice cream creates a delightful sensory experience.

Lemon Meringue Pie: For a refreshing and tangy finish to your meal, consider a lemon meringue pie. The crisp, buttery pie crust is filled with a luscious, tart lemon curd and topped with a fluffy, golden-brown meringue. The combination of textures and flavors makes this dessert a standout. Garnish with a few lemon zest curls and a sprig of mint for an elegant presentation that will impress your guests.

Why trust this Creamy Garlic Scallops Recipe:

This recipe for creamy garlic scallops is a must-try for seafood lovers. The combination of olive oil, unsalted butter, and garlic creates a rich and flavorful base, while the dry white wine and lemon juice add a delightful tang. The heavy cream ensures a luxurious texture, and the parsley provides a fresh finish. Each step is carefully crafted to bring out the best in the scallops, making this dish both simple and sophisticated. Trust this recipe for a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Share your thoughts on this Creamy Garlic Scallops Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

How do I know when the scallops are cooked through?

You’ll know the scallops are cooked through when they turn opaque and firm up. They should have a nice golden-brown crust on each side. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so keep an eye on them.

Can I use a different type of wine?

Absolutely! If you don’t have dry white wine, you can use chicken broth or even a splash of lemon juice mixed with water. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly.

What can I serve with creamy garlic scallops?

These scallops go great with a variety of sides. I love serving them over pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes. A side of steamed veggies or a fresh salad also pairs well.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

You can, but the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy. If you’re looking to cut calories, half-and-half is a decent substitute, but the texture and flavor will be a bit lighter.

How do I prevent scallops from sticking to the pan?

Make sure your pan is hot and the oil is sizzling before adding the scallops. Also, don’t move them around too much. Let them sear and form a crust before flipping. A non-stick skillet can also help.