Scallops with Leeks and Spicy Butter

  • 2 trimmed leeks
  • 12 scallops
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Lemon wedges
  • For the Chilli Butter
  • 250g butter
  • 1 red chilli, deseeded and chopped
  • 2 crushed garlic cloves
  • 2 lemons, zest only
  • Small bunch of chopped parsley
  • Beat all the butter ingredients together with a wooden spoon, then roll into a cylinder, wrap in film and chill in the fridge. When ready to cook, slice the leeks into long thin strips and steam for 6 mins to soften. Season well and set aside.
  • Pat the scallops dry and sizzle in very hot oil for 2 mins to caramelise on one side. Flip over, fry for 1 minute more, then remove from the heat and add a few slices of the chilli butter to the pan. Baste thoroughly. Add a tangle of the warm steamed leeks to each plate, then top with 3 scallops and plenty of the buttery pan juices. Sprinkle with some more parsley and serve immediately with a little lemon juice drizzled over the top.
10 mins
4 serving