Scallops and Crabmeat Recipe for Easy Gourmet Meals

Seafood lovers, get ready to indulge in a luxurious dish that combines the delicate sweetness of scallops with the rich, briny flavor of crabmeat. This scallops and crabmeat recipe is perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to impress your guests with a restaurant-quality meal made right at home.

The combination of tender seared scallops and succulent crabmeat, enhanced with a light garlic butter sauce, creates a symphony of flavors that’s both elegant and comforting.

Whether you are a seasoned home cook or a beginner looking for a delicious seafood recipe, this dish offers a balance of simplicity and sophistication. You’ll find it easy to prepare, yet the presentation and taste will wow anyone at your dinner table.

Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe stands out for several reasons. First, the use of fresh scallops and high-quality crabmeat ensures every bite bursts with authentic ocean flavor.

The cooking method is straightforward: a quick sear locks in the scallops’ juiciness, while the crabmeat is gently folded into a creamy, buttery sauce that enhances its natural sweetness.

It’s also incredibly adaptable. You can serve it as an appetizer, main course, or even over pasta or rice for a heartier meal.

The balance between the rich crab and the lightness of the scallops makes it a well-rounded dish that seafood fans and newcomers alike will appreciate.

Lastly, this recipe is perfect for those who want a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The total cook time is under 30 minutes, giving you more time to enjoy your company and less time stressing over the stove.

Ingredients

• 12 large sea scallops, patted dry
• 8 oz fresh crabmeat, picked over for shells
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional but recommended)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
• Olive oil for searing

Equipment

• Large non-stick or stainless steel skillet
• Small saucepan
• Sharp knife
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Paper towels
• Serving platter or individual plates

Instructions

1. Prepare the scallops: Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Removing moisture is key to getting a perfect sear.
2. Season the scallops: Lightly season both sides of the scallops with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Set aside.
3. Heat the skillet: Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet over medium-high heat. Allow it to get hot but not smoking.
4. Sear the scallops: Place the scallops in the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until a golden crust forms. Remove scallops and set aside on a warm plate.
5. Make the garlic butter sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
6. Deglaze and flavor: Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, stirring to deglaze the pan and reduce slightly for 2-3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
7. Add crabmeat: Gently fold the crabmeat into the sauce, warming it through without breaking up the lumps. Cook for 2 minutes until heated evenly.
8. Combine and garnish: Return the scallops to the skillet or serving dish. Spoon the crab and garlic butter sauce over the scallops. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
9. Serve immediately: Present the dish hot with your choice of sides. Enjoy the rich flavors and delicate textures!

Tips & Variations

Tip: Always pat your scallops dry before searing to get the best caramelized crust. Wet scallops will steam and won’t brown properly.

Variation: For a creamier version, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce after deglazing the pan, letting it simmer until thickened.

Tip: If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the garlic butter sauce.

Variation: Serve over a bed of linguine or risotto for a more filling entrée.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This scallops and crabmeat recipe pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides that won’t overpower its delicate flavors. Consider serving with:

• Steamed asparagus or green beans tossed with lemon zest
• A crisp mixed green salad with vinaigrette, such as our Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas
• Garlic butter rice or a creamy risotto for a hearty base
• Lightly toasted baguette slices to mop up the luscious garlic butter sauce

For a full meal, you might also enjoy pairing this dish with a refreshing white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay.

Conclusion

This scallops and crabmeat recipe is a true celebration of seafood that combines elegance with ease. It’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home.

The balance of the sweet, tender scallops and the succulent crabmeat in a buttery garlic sauce is irresistible.

With just a handful of fresh ingredients and simple techniques, you’ll achieve a dish that tastes far more complex and luxurious than the effort required. Plus, the versatility of this recipe means you can easily adapt it to your preferences or dietary needs.

If you love seafood and want to explore more recipes that bring joy to your dinner table, be sure to check out other delicious options like our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or the comforting Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food.

For a fresh and light side, the Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas is a perfect complement.

Enjoy creating this delightful seafood dish and savor the flavors of the sea in your own kitchen!

{“@context”: “https://schema.org/”, “@type”: “Recipe”, “name”: “Scallops and Crabmeat Recipe”, “image”: [], “author”: {“@type”: “Organization”, “name”: “GluttonLv”}, “description”: “A delicious seafood dish combining tender scallops with sweet crabmeat in a garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a quick and elegant meal.”, “prepTime”: “PT15M”, “cookTime”: “PT10M”, “totalTime”: “PT25M”, “recipeYield”: “4 servings”, “recipeIngredient”: [“1 lb sea scallops, cleaned”, “8 oz lump crabmeat”, “3 tbsp unsalted butter”, “2 cloves garlic, minced”, “1 tbsp olive oil”, “1/4 cup dry white wine”, “1 tbsp lemon juice”, “2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped”, “Salt and pepper to taste”, “1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)”, “1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)”], “recipeInstructions”: [{“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Pat scallops dry and season with salt and pepper.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Sear scallops 2-3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through; remove from pan.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Add garlic to skillet and saut\u00e9 until fragrant, about 1 minute.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Pour in white wine and lemon juice, simmer for 2 minutes.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Stir in crabmeat and remaining butter, cook until heated through.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Return scallops to skillet, toss gently to combine.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Sprinkle with parsley, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan if using.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Serve immediately.”}], “nutrition”: {“calories”: “320 kcal”, “proteinContent”: “38 g”, “fatContent”: “14 g”, “carbohydrateContent”: “3 g”}}