Introduction

Have you ever wondered how a dish can transport you to a coastal paradise in just under 30 minutes? The Garlic Butter Scallop Rice Bowl is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Packed with succulent scallops, aromatic garlic, and buttery goodness, this dish challenges the belief that gourmet meals must take hours to prepare. In fact, with these simple steps, you can impress your family or guests with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Let’s embark on this culinary adventure and dive into how you can create this delightful dish right at home!

Ingredients List

• 1 cup Jasmine rice (or any long-grain rice)
• 1 pound scallops (fresh or thawed)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish
• Optional: Sliced green onions for additional flavor

For a healthier twist, consider using brown rice or quinoa in place of Jasmine rice. If scallops aren’t available, shrimp or firm tofu can make excellent substitutes while keeping the dish rich and satisfying.

Timing

Preparing the Garlic Butter Scallop Rice Bowl takes about 10 minutes, while cooking will add another 15-20 minutes, bringing the total to approximately 30 minutes. This timing is 20% less than your average gourmet seafood recipe, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Rice

Start by rinsing the Jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and ensures fluffy grains. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice with 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until all water is absorbed.

2. Sauté the Garlic

While the rice is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

3. Cook the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. Increase the skillet’s heat to medium-high, then place the scallops in the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and opaque. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure a perfect sear.

4. Combine and Finish

Once the scallops are cooked, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the lemon juice to the skillet. Let the butter melt and coat the scallops. Gently toss them in the buttery garlic sauce for a minute to absorb all those flavors.

5. Assemble the Bowl

Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and divide it into serving bowls. Top each bowl with the luscious garlic butter scallops. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the top and garnish with chopped parsley and optional sliced green onions. Enjoy your creation!

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Sodium: 350mg

This dish is high in protein thanks to the scallops and provides healthy fats from the butter and olive oil. To enhance its nutritional profile, consider using whole grains and adding vegetables.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Substitute Jasmine rice with quinoa or brown rice for added fiber.
• Use a light olive oil or avocado oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
• Add more veggies such as spinach, asparagus, or bell peppers to boost vitamin intake.
• For a lower-calorie version, swap scallops for a mix of mushrooms and cauliflower, offering a hearty bite without the guilt.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your Garlic Butter Scallop Rice Bowl by pairing it with a crisp green salad drizzled with a light citrus vinaigrette. Alternatively, serve it alongside steamed seasonal vegetables or a glass of chilled white wine for a special occasion. Personalize your dish by adding a dash of your favorite hot sauce or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a unique twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the skillet: This prevents a good sear and may lead to steaming the scallops instead.
• Not drying the scallops: Moisture creates steam, which prevents browning. Always pat scallops dry before cooking.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Fresh seafood and high-quality butter will dramatically enhance your dish.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Store leftover scallops and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on low heat in a skillet to maintain texture. If you want to prepare ingredients ahead of time, pre-cook the rice and chop garlic the night before to save even more time.

Conclusion

The Garlic Butter Scallop Rice Bowl is an exquisite, quick, and satisfying dish that you can whip up in just 30 minutes. With a bit of preparation and a few quality ingredients, you can delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Give it a try and let us know your thoughts in the comments! Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipe updates!

FAQs

A: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the rice and garlic sauce ahead of time. Cook the scallops right before serving for the best texture and flavor.

B: What can I substitute for scallops if I do not have any?

Shrimp, firm tofu, or chicken breast can all make great substitutes. Adjust cooking times accordingly as each protein has different cooking requirements.

C: How do I know when the scallops are done cooking?

Scallops are done when they are opaque and nicely browned on both sides, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side on medium-high heat.

D: Is this dish suitable for freezing?

While the rice can be frozen, scallops don’t freeze well after being cooked due to their delicate texture. It’s best to enjoy them fresh.

E: Can I use frozen scallops instead of fresh ones?

Yes, but ensure they are properly thawed before cooking for the best results. Pat them dry to achieve a nice sear.

Irresistible Garlic Butter Scallop Rice Bowl Recipe to Try

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• Author: jamal
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Savor this Garlic Butter Scallop Rice Bowl for a delightful meal experience Easy to make its perfect for seafood lovers Enjoy bold flavors 154 chars

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 cup Jasmine rice

1 pound scallops

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

Chopped parsley for garnish

Optional: Sliced green onions for additional flavor

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Instructions

Rinse the Jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rice with 2 cups of water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.

Pat the scallops dry and season with salt and pepper. Increase the skillet’s heat to medium-high, add scallops, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and opaque.

Once cooked, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and lemon juice to the skillet, letting the butter melt and coat the scallops.

Fluff the cooked rice, divide it into bowls, and top with scallops. Drizzle with remaining sauce and garnish with parsley and optional green onions.

Notes

The Garlic Butter Scallop Rice Bowl is an exquisite, quick, and satisfying seafood dish that combines succulent scallops, aromatic garlic, and buttery goodness, ready in just 30 minutes.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 servings
• Calories: 450
• Fat: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 35g