SEA SCALLOPS APPETIZER RECIPES

Steps:

• Using a fork or electric mixer, beat one stick of butter until fluffy.
• Add remaining herb butter ingredients (shallots, zest, thyme, parsley and wine.) Mix well and set aside.
• Pat scallops dry with paper towels and lightly season with salt.
• In a large skillet (I usually use nonstick), over medium-high heat, melt 1 1/2 tablespoons butter and add oil.
• Place 1/3 to 1/2 of the scallops in hot skillet (sear in 2 or 3 batches, don't overcrowd) and cook for 2 minutes (approximately) on each side, until lightly browned on each side and slightly opaque in the center. (Be sure to watch the heat! Better undercooked than overcooked!)
• Remove to a warm plate and repeat searing until all scallops are cooked, adding a bit of extra oil as needed.
• Reduce heat to medium and add 1/2 cup dry white wine to skillet to deglaze; simmer for 1-2 minutes.
• Remove from heat and add half of the herb butter; stir until melted and combined; drain off, and into skillet, any juices that have accumulated on the plate of cooked scallops and return skillet to medium heat for 30 seconds. Taste for seasoning.
• Pour a small amount of sauce on plate and arrange scallops on top. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives. Serve immediately.
• Cover and refrigerate remaining unused herb butter.
• Note: If you don't have shallots, use chives. No zest? Leave it out. No lemon thyme? Use a pinch of dried thyme or leave it out. It will be fine.

Steps:

• Remove the small side muscle from the scallops, rinse with cold water and thoroughly pat dry.
• Add the butter and oil to a 12 to 14-inch saute pan on high heat. Salt and pepper the scallops. Once the fat begins to smoke, gently add the scallops, making sure they are not touching each other. Sear the scallops for 1 1/2 minutes on each side. The scallops should have a 1/4-inch golden crust on each side while still being translucent in the center. Serve immediately.