The sizzle of butter hitting a hot pan is a sound that instantly brings comfort and anticipation to my kitchen. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Scallops and Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce, a dish that transforms simple ingredients into an elegant feast. In just about 35 minutes, you can elevate your weeknight dinners with this quick prep meal that’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also a fantastic way to impress guests without breaking a sweat. The rich, garlicky flavors combined with perfectly cooked seafood create a symphony of taste that’s simply irresistible. So, are you ready to dive into a culinary adventure that will leave everyone asking for seconds? Let’s get cooking!
Why is this seafood dish irresistible?
Simplicity, you’ll love how easy it is to prepare Scallops and Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce – just a handful of ingredients create a gourmet experience! Rich, the savory garlic butter sauce perfectly complements the tender seafood, giving your palate a delightful treat. Versatile, feel free to serve it with a light salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Quick cooking time ensures you can whip this up any night of the week, making it a go-to for busy schedules. Impress your loved ones with this dish that delivers restaurant-quality flavors without the stress!
Scallops and Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce Ingredients
For the Seafood
• Scallops – fresh sea scallops add a sweet, delicate flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich sauce.
• Shrimp – make sure to use peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience and a tender bite.
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
• Butter – high-quality unsalted butter creates a rich base for the sauce; feel free to substitute with ghee for a dairy-free option.
• Garlic – fresh minced garlic is key to achieving that bold, aromatic flavor; don’t use garlic powder for the best results.
• Salt – enhance the natural flavors of the seafood, but adjust to your liking.
• Pepper – freshly cracked black pepper adds a touch of heat and complements the dish beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
• Asparagus – this light vegetable dish adds freshness and color to your plate, perfectly balancing the richness of the seafood.
• Crusty Bread – a must-have for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce; it makes for a decadent finishing touch.
With these simple but essential ingredients, you’re set to make a splendid Scallops and Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce that will delight your family and friends!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Scallops and Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce
Step 1: Melt the Butter
In a large skillet, heat 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Allow the butter to fully melt and start bubbling, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent browning, as you'll want that delightful creamy base to enhance the flavors of your Scallops and Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Once the butter is melted, add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant and begins to turn golden. This step is crucial for developing the rich flavors that will envelop your seafood, so enjoy the aromatic scent filling your kitchen!
Step 3: Cook the Scallops
Gently place 4 fresh scallops into the skillet, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn opaque and develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. This visual cue indicates they are perfectly cooked and ready to bring a succulent richness to your Scallops and Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce.
Step 4: Add the Shrimp
Carefully transfer your peeled and deveined shrimp into the skillet along with the scallops. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring gently until the shrimp turn fully pink and opaque. This will take a little less time since shrimp cooks quicker than scallops, enhancing the dish's overall texture and flavor.
Step 5: Season to Perfection
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Stir gently to combine the seasonings with your seafood in the flavorful garlic butter sauce. Adjust seasoning according to your preference, allowing the natural flavors of the Scallops and Shrimp to shine through in this delightful dish.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Once everything is cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve your Scallops and Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce immediately for the best flavor and texture. Pair it with a light salad or some crusty bread to soak up that amazing sauce, and savor a restaurant-quality meal right at home!
What to Serve with Scallops and Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce
There's nothing quite like a beautiful seafood dish that can transport you straight to the coast with its delicate flavors and rich aromas.
- Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted with herbs, it’s essential for mopping up that decadent garlic butter sauce.
- Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing medley of veggies and a light vinaigrette adds crunch and balances the richness of the dish beautifully.
- Steamed Asparagus: This vibrant, slightly sweet vegetable pairs wonderfully, adding a pop of color and a healthy element to your plate.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice with a zesty twist complements the dish while providing a comforting, filling base that won't overpower the seafood.
- Creamy Polenta: Its smooth, buttery texture provides a lovely contrast to the tender seafood and enhances the overall dining experience.
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of crisp Chardonnay levels up the meal; its acidity cuts through the richness and enhances the seafood flavors.
- Lemon Sorbet: Cleanse your palate with a light, refreshing dessert after the savory main course, leaving a lasting impression.
- Grilled Vegetables: Smoky, charred flavors from seasonal veggies create a delightful contrast and add a wholesome touch to your meal.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: Refreshing and bubbly, it’s a perfect accompaniment to the buttery richness without overshadowing the exquisite flavors of the seafood.
Make Ahead Options
These Scallops and Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the garlic butter sauce up to 3 days in advance by melting the butter and sautéing the garlic, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves you time on busy weeknights but also ensures the sauce remains just as delicious. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the garlic butter sauce in a skillet before adding the fresh scallops and shrimp. Cook the seafood until perfectly tender, and you'll have a delightful dish ready to impress your family with minimal effort!
Scallops and Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this dish to your personal taste and dietary preferences!
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Dairy-Free: Swap butter with ghee or coconut oil for a creamy flavor without dairy. The coconut oil adds a subtle twist of sweetness to the dish.
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Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of fresh lemon zest to the garlic butter sauce for a bright, zesty kick. It enhances the seafood's natural flavors and adds a refreshing touch.
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Herb-Infused: Stir in fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil just before serving for a fragrant garnish. This not only elevates the presentation but also adds layers of flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic for a spicy finish. This hint of heat will awaken your taste buds, making every bite even more exciting.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes during the last minute of cooking for added color and nutrition. They provide a delightful freshness to balance the rich garlic sauce.
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Seafood Medley: Make it a seafood extravaganza by adding scallops, shrimp, and some tender calamari or mussels. This combination brings a variety of textures and flavors to your plate.
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Creamy Sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream after cooking the seafood. This creates a luxurious cream sauce that perfectly coats the scallops and shrimp, elevating your meal to new heights.
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Garlic Lovers: Extra garlic never hurt anyone! If you adore that pungent flavor, feel free to double the minced garlic for an even more aromatic dish. Your kitchen will be filled with irresistible scent!
By adjusting these elements, your Scallops and Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce can transform into countless delightful variations. Enjoy exploring your culinary creativity!
Storage Tips for Scallops and Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to keep the seafood tender.
Freezer: While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked dish for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for optimal taste.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the scallops and shrimp in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the garlic butter sauce rich and flavorful.
Wrap It Up: If storing the sauce separately, cool it completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to a week.
Tips for the Best Scallops and Shrimp
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Perfect Timing: Be mindful of cooking time; scallops need 2-3 minutes per side, while shrimp cooks faster. Overcooking can lead to rubbery seafood.
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality scallops and shrimp to enhance flavor and texture; frozen options are fine but ensure they are properly thawed.
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Adjusting Heat: Maintain medium heat when cooking. Too high can burn the garlic or overcook the seafood, ruining your Scallops and Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce.
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Butter Temperature: Ensure the butter is bubbly before adding garlic; this releases essential flavors. If it browns, it's too hot!
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Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to play with seasonings. Add a hint of lemon or fresh herbs for a personalized touch to your Scallops and Shrimp.
Scallops and Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe FAQs
What type of scallops should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh sea scallops are ideal for this dish as they provide a sweet, delicate flavor that pairs perfectly with the garlic butter sauce. If fresh is not available, frozen scallops work as well; just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for the best results.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
I recommend enjoying your Scallops and Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain tenderness in the seafood.
Can I freeze Scallops and Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce?
Very! While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked seafood for up to 1 month. To do this, make sure it cools completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or a freezer bag. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to retain flavor and texture.
What’s the best method to reheat the seafood without compromising texture?
I often reheat my scallops and shrimp in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of broth or water to the pan to help maintain moisture and keep that garlic butter sauce rich and flavorful. Stir gently until warmed through, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes—this way, your seafood won’t turn rubbery!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! For those with shellfish allergies, this dish is not suitable, as both scallops and shrimp are shellfish. Also, to accommodate dairy-free diets, you can substitute the butter with ghee or a plant-based alternative. Always check the ingredient labels of your substitutes if you have specific dietary restrictions!
How can I tell if the scallops are cooked perfectly?
Great question! Look for scallops that turn opaque and develop a beautiful golden-brown crust, typically about 2-3 minutes per side in your skillet. They should be firm yet tender when poked, and not rubbery. If you’re achieving that golden color, you’re likely right on track to enjoy a perfect Scallops and Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce!
Savor Scallops and Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce Tonight
Equipment
- large skillet
Ingredients
For the Seafood
- 4 pieces fresh scallops add a sweet, delicate flavor
- 8 ounces peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience and tender bite
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter high-quality for best results
- 1 tablespoon fresh minced garlic avoid garlic powder for best results
- 1 teaspoon salt to enhance the natural flavors
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper adjust to taste
Serving Suggestions
- 1 cup asparagus adds freshness and color
- 1 loaf crusty bread for soaking up the sauce
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until melted and bubbling, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Gently place 4 scallops in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until opaque.
- Carefully add the shrimp, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until fully pink and opaque.
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately paired with asparagus or crusty bread.
