Pan-seared scallops is a simple dish creates a crispy, golden crust while maintaining a tender, buttery interior. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of cooking time, you can impress your family or guests with this restaurant-quality meal that captures the essence of ocean-fresh flavors.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This pan-seared scallops recipe is beloved for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The scallops cook quickly, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend meal. They are naturally low in calories and high in protein, fitting seamlessly into a variety of diets, including paleo and keto. The rich, briny taste of scallops pairs beautifully with simple seasonings, allowing the star of the dish to shine. Plus, the dish can be made in under 15 minutes, meaning you can whip up gourmet dining at home without spending hours in the kitchen.
Tips and Tricks
- Use dry scallops: Look for “dry” scallops that have not been treated with preservatives. They will sear better and have a cleaner taste.
- Pat them dry: Before cooking, make sure to pat the scallops dry with a paper towel. This helps achieve that beautiful golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the scallops in batches if necessary to avoid steaming, which can happen if they are too crowded in the skillet.
- High heat is key: Use a heavy skillet, like cast iron or stainless steel, and let it get hot before adding the scallops. This ensures they sear properly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking: Scallops cook quickly. Aim for about 2-3 minutes per side; they should be opaque and slightly firm, not rubbery.
- Skipping the drying step: Not drying the scallops can lead to steaming instead of searing.
- Improper seasoning: A simple sprinkle of sea salt and freshly cracked pepper enhances the scallops’ natural flavor without overpowering it.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare your scallops by cleaning and drying them a few hours ahead of time, storing them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Keep them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess moisture. However, scallops are best cooked fresh, so avoid marinating for long periods as this can affect their texture.
Recipe Variations
- Herbed Butter: Infuse the cooking oil or butter with garlic or herbs like thyme and parsley for added flavor.
- Sauce it up: Consider a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of white wine to create a quick pan sauce after searing.
- Vegetarian option: Swap scallops with large mushroom caps, such as portobello, for a savory alternative.
How to Serve
Serve the pan-seared scallops on a bed of creamy risotto or alongside a fresh arugula salad. Garnish with a sprinkle of microgreens or lemon zest for a pop of color. A drizzle of balsamic reduction or herb oil can also elevate the dish’s presentation.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your pan-seared scallops with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Grigio. For cocktails, a classic gin and tonic works beautifully. Complementary side dishes could include asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a light citrus salad. For dessert, consider a lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate.
How to Store
Leftover scallops should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 1-2 days for best quality. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to avoid overcooking. Freezing is not recommended, as it can alter the texture of the scallops.
Equipment Needed
- A heavy skillet (cast iron or stainless steel is preferred)
- A spatula for flipping the scallops
- Paper towels for drying the scallops
Dietary Adaptations
For a vegan adaptation, use large king oyster mushrooms instead of scallops and follow the same cooking method. To make it dairy-free, substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan butter. Ensure any sauces or garnishes used are also free from dairy and other allergens.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the spring and summer, pair scallops with fresh seasonal vegetables like peas or asparagus. In the fall, consider serving with roasted butternut squash or a warm grain salad to reflect the flavors of the season.
Cost Breakdown
The estimated cost for pan-seared scallops comes to around $10-$15 per serving, depending on the scallop size and quality. For a budget-friendly option, consider using smaller scallops or substituting with shrimp or fish.
Kitchen Hacks
- To save time, have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking.
- Use a kitchen timer to keep track of cooking times, ensuring perfectly cooked scallops every time.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen scallops? Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and dry them thoroughly before cooking.
- What if I don’t have a heavy skillet? A non-stick pan can work, but be cautious about heat levels, as they may not sear as effectively.
- How do I know when scallops are done? They should be opaque throughout and have a slightly firm texture.
How To Make pan seared scallops recipe
Pan Seared Scallops
Pan-seared scallops is a simple dish creates a crispy, golden crust while maintaining a tender, buttery interior.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of dry sea scallops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme), optional for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Begin by patting the scallops dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat until shimmering.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the scallops to the pan. Make sure they are not touching each other.
- Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes without moving them, allowing a golden crust to form.
- Flip the scallops using a spatula and add the butter to the pan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, basting the scallops with melted butter for extra flavor.
- Remove the scallops from the pan and place them on a plate. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your choice of sides.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 243Total Fat 14gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 8gCholesterol 62mgSodium 832mgCarbohydrates 8gFiber 1gSugar 0gProtein 24g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Cooking pan-seared scallops is a rewarding experience that brings a taste of the sea right to your kitchen. With this recipe, you’ll master the art of searing scallops to perfection in no time. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish will surely impress and satisfy. Happy cooking!
