Pan-Seared Scallops with Herb-Butter Sauce

Ingredients: 

Scallops:

• 1 lb dry bay scallops
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• kosher salt and fresh black pepper to taste

Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium shallot finely diced
• ¼ cup dry white wine
• ⅛ cup finely chopped fresh chopped tarragon
• ⅛ cup finely chopped fresh chopped chives
• ¼ teaspoon lemon zest
• kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 to 3 lemon wedges reserved for serving

Directions:

1. Remove the tough muscle from the side of the scallop. Some scallops are sold with this already removed.
2. Sprinkle scallops on both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat for 1 to 2 minutes. Add the oil and butter. Heat until decently hot.
4. Pat the scallops dry once more, then add onto the pan in a single layer. Do not over-crowd. Let sear for 1 to 1 minutes.
5. Using tongs, turn the scallops and let sear until the other side is equally browned (another 1 to 2 minutes). Scallops should be almost firm to the touch when done.
6. Remove the scallops from the pan onto a plate, and set aside to keep warm.
7. Return the pan to the stove and lower the heat to medium. Add ½ tablespoon of butter and the shallots. Sauté for about a minute.
8. Add the wine and simmer until reduced by half.
9. Add the herbs and lemon zest, then reduce the heat to low.
10. Add the remaining butter, and whisk constantly until all the butter is melted.
11. Return the scallops briefly to the pan, and gently roll them in the sauce.
12. Taste the sauce, and add more salt and pepper to taste.
13. Serve with arugula or lettuce and lemon wedges. Enjoy!

Note: Make sure the scallops are patted very dry and the oil is very hot before adding to the pan.

 

Original Recipe: 12tomatoes.com