Pan-Seared Scallops with Crispy Bacon and Lemon Butter

Seared scallops accompanied by crispy bacon bits and drizzled with a nutty lemon butter; a refined low-carb appetizer.

Ingredients

scallops, roe removed

bacon bits (lardons)

butter

fresh lemon juice

freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Pat the scallops dry to remove excess moisture; lightly salt and pepper just before cooking.
2. In a hot skillet without added fat, sear the bacon bits until crispy; remove and set aside on paper towels.
3. Wipe the skillet, add a little butter, then sear the scallops for 1.5–2 minutes per side over high heat to achieve a beautiful caramelized color; do not overcook.
4. Remove the scallops, lower the heat, and add the remaining butter to make a brown butter (beurre noisette); stir in the lemon juice off the heat.
5. Arrange the scallops on plates, sprinkle with crispy bacon, and drizzle with the lemon butter; serve immediately with lemon zest for freshness.

Variants

• Replace bacon with pancetta shavings for a similar flavor profile.

Tips

• Do not overcrowd the pan when searing scallops to ensure even browning.
• Cooking should be quick to keep the texture tender and melting.

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