Introduction
If you’re a seafood lover, then you probably enjoy indulging in some perfectly cooked scallops. These succulent shellfish are a delicacy that can be prepared in various ways, but one of the best methods is to cook them in a cast iron skillet. In this article, we will guide you through a simple and delicious recipe for cooking scallops in cast iron.
The Benefits of Cooking Scallops in Cast Iron
Using a cast iron skillet to cook scallops offers several advantages. Firstly, cast iron provides excellent heat distribution, ensuring that your scallops are cooked evenly and to perfection. Secondly, the natural non-stick properties of a well-seasoned cast iron skillet prevent the scallops from sticking to the pan, making them easy to flip and remove once cooked. Lastly, cooking scallops in cast iron imparts a unique and savory flavor that enhances their natural sweetness.
Ingredients
For the Scallops:
- 1 pound of fresh scallops
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Scallops
Start by patting the scallops dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help achieve a nice sear. Season the scallops generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Preparing the Cast Iron Skillet
Place your cast iron skillet on the stove over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat up for a minute or two. You want the skillet to be hot before adding the scallops.
Step 3: Searing the Scallops
Carefully add the scallops to the hot skillet, making sure to leave some space between each scallop. Allow them to sear undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they easily release from the skillet and have a golden brown crust.
Step 4: Making the Lemon Butter Sauce
While the scallops are cooking, melt the butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped parsley.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Once the scallops are cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove them from the skillet and transfer them to a serving plate. Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the scallops, or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired.
Conclusion
Now you know how to cook scallops in a cast iron skillet to perfection. This simple recipe allows you to enjoy the natural flavors of the scallops while adding a touch of savory richness with the lemon butter sauce. Serve them as an appetizer or main course, and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. Happy cooking!