SEARED SCALLOPS WITH LEMON AND BACON

Seared Scallops with Lemon and Bacon image

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Time 30m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 6

3 slices bacon (about 2 ounces), cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 1/2 pounds sea scallops, muscle removed (see Cook's Note)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 1/2 teaspoons finely chopped flat-leaf parsley leaves

Steps:

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and fry the bacon pieces until golden and crisp, about 5 minutes. Reserve the bacon fat in the skillet and transfer the bacon with a slotted spoon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Meanwhile, arrange the scallops so they lay flat and are evenly spaced on a plate. Pat them completely dry with a paper towel. Season the scallops with salt and pepper.
Cook the scallops, undisturbed, over high heat until they are golden brown on the bottom, about 3 minutes. Flip the scallops and cook for 1 minute more. Turn off the heat, add the lemon zest and juice, parsley and reserved bacon pieces and toss to combine. Divide the scallops among 4 plates or a serving platter and serve immediately.