Description
Seared Scallops with Yuzu Garlic Butter is a quick and elegant dish combining tender, caramelized scallops with a bright, citrusy garlic butter sauce made from plant-based ingredients. This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of scallops enhanced by the tangy punch of yuzu, balanced with savory garlic and a touch of acidity, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 12 fresh dry-packed scallops
Sauce and Seasoning
- 3 tablespoons plant-based butter (natural)
- 2 tablespoons yuzu juice (natural)
- 1 teaspoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced finely
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the scallops: Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them completely dry using paper towels. Ensuring they are dry is essential for achieving a perfect sear.
- Heat the pan: Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add a small drizzle of olive oil. Allow the pan to become hot but not smoking before adding the scallops.
- Sear the scallops: Place the scallops in the pan with space between each one. Sear for about 2 minutes per side until a golden crust forms. Avoid moving scallops around to allow proper caramelization.
- Make yuzu garlic butter sauce: In a separate small saucepan, melt the plant-based butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the yuzu juice, apple cider vinegar, and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and finish: Transfer the seared scallops to a serving plate and spoon the warm yuzu garlic butter sauce over each scallop. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Dry your scallops thoroughly to ensure a good sear and browning.
- Use a heavy skillet such as cast iron or stainless steel for better heat retention and crust formation.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; give scallops enough space to sear evenly.
- Use freshly squeezed yuzu juice for the brightest flavor, if possible.
- Add garlic just before scallops finish searing to avoid burnt garlic taste.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 scallops with sauce
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: seared scallops, yuzu garlic butter, plant-based butter, quick seafood recipe, citrus seafood dish, gluten free appetizer