Scallops with Lemon-Basil Sauce

Look for dry-packed sea scallops at your local seafood market. They haven't been soaked in a liquid solution, which increases their weight and sodium content.

Prep Time 3 Mins
Cook Time 12 Mins
Yield 4 servings (serving size: 5 ounces scallops and about 1 tablespoon sauce)

RECIPE BY OXMOOR HOUSE

Ingredients
1 large lemon
1 1/2 pounds large sea scallops
1/4 teaspoon salt, divided
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
1 tablespoon butter, divided
3/4 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon water
1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh basil


How to Make It

Step 1
Finely grate lemon rind, reserving 1/4 teaspoon. Squeeze lemon, reserving 2 tablespoons juice. Pat scallops dry with paper towels.

Step 2
Sprinkle scallops with 1/8 teaspoon each salt and pepper. Melt 2 teaspoons butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add scallops; cook 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until done. Remove scallops from pan; keep warm.

Step 3
Add wine and reserved lemon juice to pan, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 2 minutes, stirring to loosen browned bits from bottom of pan. Combine water and cornstarch; add to pan. Cook, stirring constantly, 2 minutes or until sauce begins to thicken. Add reserved lemon rind, remaining 1 teaspoon butter, remaining 1/8 teaspoon each salt and pepper, and basil. Remove from heat. Serve over scallops.

Step 4
Serve with: Buttery Angel Hair Pasta with Parmesan Cheese