Scallops With Herbed Brown Butter
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026
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This elegant dish of pan-seared scallops with herbed brown butter offers a sophisticated dining experience that is surprisingly simple to achieve at home. By searing the scallops until golden and then basting them in foaming butter infused with fresh tarragon or sage, you create a rich, restaurant-quality finish. The addition of fresh lemon juice cuts through the richness, providing a bright acidity that perfectly balances the sweet, delicate flavour of the seafood.
As a diabetes-friendly option, this recipe focuses on high-quality protein and healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice for a light lunch or a celebratory starter. Serve these scallops alongside steamed seasonal greens or a crisp garden salad for a well-rounded, low-carbohydrate meal that feels truly indulgent without being heavy.
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Ingredients for Scallops With Herbed Brown Butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
450g sea scallops, side muscle removed
Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper
2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
4 sprigs herbs (such as tarragon, lemon thyme, or sage)
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
How to make Scallops With Herbed Brown Butter
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season scallops with salt and pepper and cook until deep golden brown on 1 side, about 3 minutes. Turn scallops and add butter and herbs to pan. Continue cooking, spooning butter over scallops often, until scallops are cooked through and butter is brown and smells nutty, about 3 minutes longer. Add lemon juice. Serve scallops with brown butter pan sauce.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
16 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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