Introduction
Transform ordinary weeknight ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal with this unbelievably quick and easy scallops and shrimp recipe! This dish is perfect for busy cooks who crave delicious, flavorful food without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready to impress yourself (and maybe a date!) with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Why This Works
This recipe works because it’s all about simple, high-quality ingredients and a technique that maximizes flavor in minutes. The garlic butter sauce is rich and decadent, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the scallops and shrimp. It’s a balanced, satisfying meal that’s ready faster than takeout!
Key Ingredients
- 🍤 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 🐚 1 pound large sea scallops, patted dry
- 🧈 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 🧄 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 🌿 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 🍋 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 🌶️ ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 🧂 Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the seafood: Pat the shrimp and scallops dry with paper towels. This is crucial for a good sear.
2️⃣ Melt the butter: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter.
3️⃣ Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4️⃣ Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5️⃣ Cook the scallops: Add the scallops to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
6️⃣ Combine and serve: Return the shrimp to the skillet. Stir in the lemon juice and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for dipping.
Handy Tips
- Use high-quality seafood for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the seafood! Overcooked shrimp and scallops will be tough and rubbery.
- If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried parsley.
Heat Control
Medium-high heat is key here. It allows for a quick sear that creates a beautiful crust on the seafood without overcooking the inside. Lower heat will result in steamed, not seared, seafood.
Crunch Factor
While this recipe isn’t about crunch, the quick sear on the scallops and shrimp creates a delightful texture contrast to the creamy garlic butter sauce.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine to the skillet after sautéing the garlic.
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors.
- Use pre-minced garlic to save time, but fresh garlic always delivers the best flavor.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This dish is perfect for a romantic dinner, so presentation matters! Serve it in a beautiful shallow bowl, garnished with fresh parsley and a lemon wedge.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
🌟 Herby: Incorporate chopped chives, dill, or thyme along with the parsley.
🌟 Citrusy: Add a tablespoon of orange zest or juice for a bright, zesty twist.
🌟 Creamy: Stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream at the end for a richer sauce.
Troubleshooting
- Seafood is overcooked: Reduce the heat and shorten the cooking time.
- Sauce is too oily: Skim off excess butter before serving.
- Seafood sticks to the pan: Ensure the pan is hot enough and that the seafood is patted dry before cooking.
FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp and scallops? A: Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Q: What kind of pasta pairs well with this dish? A: Linguine, fettuccine, or angel hair pasta all work well.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: It’s best served immediately, but the sauce can be made ahead and reheated.
Conclusion
This Scallops and Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce recipe is a winner for weeknight dinners! It’s quick, easy, and delivers incredible flavor. Share it with your friends and family—they’ll thank you for it! Enjoy!
30-Minute Garlic Butter Scallops & Shrimp: Weeknight Winner
A quick and flavorful dish featuring succulent scallops and shrimp in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 pound sea scallops
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Cooked rice or pasta for serving
Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
- Season the scallops with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic. Sautu00e9 for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Return the scallops to the skillet, add lemon juice, and toss everything together gently.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve over rice or pasta.
Tips
- Ensure the scallops are dry before cooking to achieve a nice sear.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the skillet after cooking the shrimp.