Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Butter Sauce

Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Butter Sauce is a delightful dish that brings together the sweetness of scallops and the earthiness of Brussels sprouts, all enhanced by a zesty lemon butter sauce. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe combines sophistication with ease, making it an appealing choice for both novice and experienced cooks alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of seared scallops and roasted Brussels sprouts with lemon butter sauce creates a symphony of flavors.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein and vitamins, this meal is as healthy as it is delicious.
• Versatile Pairing: Serve it with rice, quinoa, or a green salad for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and textures make this dish visually stunning, sure to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather your tools and ensure everything is ready. Having the right equipment on hand will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or grill
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Saucepan
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or grill: Perfect for achieving that beautiful sear on your scallops.
• Baking sheet: Ensures even roasting of the Brussels sprouts for optimal flavor and texture.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for tossing ingredients together before cooking, ensuring they are well coated.
• Saucepan: Essential for making the silky lemon butter sauce that ties the dish together.

Ingredients

For the Scallops

• 1 pound sea scallops
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

For the Brussels Sprouts

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

For the Lemon Butter Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Butter Sauce

Step 1: Sear the Scallops

Preheat your skillet or grill to medium-high heat. Season the scallops using the following steps:
1. Combine garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
2. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels.
3. Rub the seasoning mixture onto both sides of each scallop.
4. Add olive oil to the hot skillet and place scallops in a single layer.
5. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

While searing the scallops, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Follow these steps:
1. In a mixing bowl, toss trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well coated.
2. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until tender-crisp.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat:
1. Melt butter until bubbly but not browned.
2. Whisk in lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook while stirring until smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 4: Assemble Your Dish

To serve:
1. Arrange roasted Brussels sprouts on a platter.
2. Top with seared scallops.
3. Drizzle generously with lemon butter sauce just before serving.

Enjoy this exquisite Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Butter Sauce as a fantastic centerpiece for your next meal!

How to Serve Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Butter Sauce

Serving Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Butter Sauce is all about presentation and pairing. This dish is not only flavorful but also visually appealing, making it perfect for entertaining or a special family dinner.

On a Platter

• Arrange the roasted Brussels sprouts in a circle on a large platter.
• Place the seared scallops in the center for an elegant look.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
• This adds color and enhances the dish’s flavor profile.

Accompanied by Lemon Wedges

• Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
• This allows guests to add extra zest to their scallops as desired.

Pairing with Wine

• Serve alongside a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
• The acidity of the wine complements the lemon butter sauce beautifully.

How to Perfect Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Butter Sauce

To achieve perfect seared scallops and roasted Brussels sprouts, consider these key tips for enhancing your dish.

• Use fresh scallops: Fresh scallops have a sweeter flavor and better texture than frozen ones.
• Preheat your skillet: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding scallops. This helps achieve that golden crust.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Sear scallops in batches if necessary to maintain high heat.
• Check for doneness: Scallops should be opaque and firm but still slightly springy when done.
• Uniform size for Brussels sprouts: Halve Brussels sprouts evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
• Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to add herbs or spices to customize the flavors in both the scallops and Brussels sprouts.

Best Side Dishes for Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Butter Sauce

Pairing side dishes with Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Butter Sauce enhances your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that complement the main dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting contrast to the dish’s brightness.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light salad made with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness and texture.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears seasoned lightly can elevate the meal’s sophistication.
4. Wild Rice Pilaf: Earthy wild rice mixed with herbs offers a nutty flavor that pairs well with seafood.
5. Couscous with Herbs: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs brings a light, zesty element to your plate.
6. Mixed Green Salad: Crisp greens dressed in vinaigrette provide a refreshing balance to richer elements of the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Butter Sauce, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season scallops and Brussels sprouts properly can result in bland flavors. Always use the recommended spices for a tasty dish.
• Overcooking the scallops: Cooking scallops too long can make them rubbery. Sear them just until they are opaque and slightly golden, about 2-3 minutes per side.
• Not preheating properly: If your skillet or oven isn’t hot enough, you won’t achieve that perfect sear on your scallops or crispiness on your Brussels sprouts. Preheat your cooking surfaces before starting.
• Ignoring the sauce timing: Making the lemon butter sauce too early can lead to it cooling down and thickening too much. Prepare it right before serving for a smooth texture.
• Using low-quality ingredients: The flavor of this dish depends on fresh, high-quality scallops and Brussels sprouts. Invest in good ingredients for the best outcome.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Butter Sauce

• It’s best to freeze components separately for optimal texture.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Frozen scallops should be consumed within 1 month for best quality.

Reheating Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Butter Sauce

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftovers in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place food in a microwave-safe container. Heat on medium power in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth if needed, and stir occasionally until heated completely.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the scallops are cooked?

Scallops are cooked when they turn opaque and have a golden crust outside. They should feel firm but not hard.

Can I substitute other vegetables instead of Brussels sprouts?

Yes, you can use asparagus, green beans, or broccoli as alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What is the best way to serve Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Butter Sauce?

Serve this dish warm on a platter, drizzled with lemon butter sauce. Accompany it with grains like rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While you can prepare components ahead of time, it’s best to cook them fresh right before serving for optimal taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Butter Sauce is a delightful dish that impresses with its flavor and presentation. It’s versatile enough to adapt with different vegetables or spices based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a gourmet meal at home!

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Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Butter Sauce

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Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Seared Scallops and Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Lemon Butter Sauce, a dish that elegantly marries the sweetness of perfectly seared scallops with the earthy crunch of roasted Brussels sprouts. Finished with a zesty lemon butter sauce, this gourmet meal is both easy to prepare and visually stunning, making it ideal for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home. In under an hour, you can present a dish that impresses with its flavor and presentation, ensuring your guests will rave about this culinary delight!

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound sea scallops
• 1 pound Brussels sprouts
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt and black pepper
• Butter
• Lemon juice
• Fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Sear the Scallops: Season dry scallops with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear scallops for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
2. Roast the Brussels Sprouts: Toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until tender-crisp.
3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Assemble: Serve roasted Brussels sprouts on a platter topped with seared scallops and drizzle with lemon butter sauce.

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Searing/Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: For enhanced flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or dill to the scallops while cooking. Substitute Brussels sprouts with seasonal vegetables such as asparagus or green beans for variety.