Seared Bay Scallops are a delightful seafood dish that combines elegance with simplicity. With their sweet, tender meat and a beautifully caramelized crust, these scallops are not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight on the plate. This recipe highlights the natural flavors of the scallops, enhanced by a quick sear in a hot skillet, resulting in a dish that can impress guests or satisfy a weeknight craving. The addition of a zesty lemon butter sauce elevates the dish, making it an irresistible choice for seafood lovers.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will adore this recipe for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The sweet, delicate taste of bay scallops is complemented by the richness of the butter and the brightness of lemon, creating a harmonious balance that dances on your taste buds. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a gourmet dish that fits well into low-carb and gluten-free diets, making it perfect for those seeking lighter meal options without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce seafood to your weekly meals without requiring extensive cooking skills.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Scallops: Always opt for fresh bay scallops when possible, as frozen scallops can sometimes lose their delicate texture.
- Pat Them Dry: To achieve that perfect sear, be sure to pat the scallops dry with paper towels before cooking. Moisture can prevent that beautiful crust from forming.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook scallops in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than searing.
- Resting Time: Allowing the scallops to rest for a minute after cooking will help retain the juices, keeping them tender and flavorful.
Make Ahead Tips
To save time, you can prep the lemon butter sauce in advance. Simply melt the butter, stir in lemon juice, and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also clean and pat dry the scallops ahead of time; however, it’s best to cook them fresh right before serving for optimal texture and flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Herbed Version: Add fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill to the butter sauce for a burst of freshness.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the butter sauce for a spicy twist.
- Alternate Cooking Methods: Try grilling the scallops for a smoky flavor or broiling them for a quicker cooking method.
How to Serve
Serve your seared bay scallops on a bed of creamy risotto or alongside a crisp salad. A drizzle of the lemon butter sauce over the top adds an elegant touch. For garnish, consider a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a twist of lemon zest to enhance the presentation.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your seared bay scallops with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay for a classic match. For those who enjoy cocktails, a refreshing gin and tonic or a citrusy mojito complements the dish beautifully. On the side, a light arugula salad or garlic sautéed green beans would make excellent accompaniments, while a lemon sorbet can cleanse the palate as a light dessert.
How to Store
If you have leftovers, store the scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. They are best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to reheat, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent overcooking. Avoid freezing cooked scallops, as they can lose their texture and flavor.
Equipment Needed
- Skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet, preferably cast iron or stainless steel, is best for achieving a good sear.
- Tongs: For turning the scallops without damaging them.
- Zester or Grater: For obtaining fresh lemon zest, if desired.
Dietary Adaptations
- Dairy-Free: Substitute vegan butter for regular butter to make this dish dairy-free.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so no adjustments are necessary.
- Nut-Free: This recipe is also nut-free, making it safe for those with nut allergies.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the spring and summer, fresh herbs and vegetables can be incorporated into the dish. Try adding a seasonal vegetable like asparagus or peas to your plate. In the fall, a touch of pumpkin puree can be served as a side for a heartier meal.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen scallops?: Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
- What’s the best way to tell if scallops are done?: They should be opaque and firm to the touch when fully cooked.
- How long do I cook scallops?: Generally, 2-3 minutes per side over medium-high heat is ideal.
How To Make Seared Bay Scallops
Seared Bay Scallops
Seared Bay Scallops are a delightful seafood dish that combines elegance with simplicity.
Ingredients
- 1 pound bay scallops
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the bay scallops under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels.
- Season the scallops lightly with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Once the butter has melted and is bubbling, carefully add the scallops to the skillet in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes without moving them, until they develop a golden-brown crust.
- Flip the scallops gently using tongs and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the other side.
- Remove the scallops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add the remaining tablespoon of butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest (if using). Stir to combine.
- Pour the lemon butter sauce over the scallops and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 218Total Fat 10gSaturated Fat 4gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 5gCholesterol 62mgSodium 832mgCarbohydrates 9gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 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
Seared Bay Scallops are a perfect dish to prepare for any occasion, whether it’s an intimate dinner for two or a festive gathering with friends. Their quick cooking time and rich flavor make them an accessible yet impressive dish that anyone can master. With the right techniques and a bit of care, you’ll create a seafood masterpiece that brings joy to your dining table. Enjoy the process, savor every bite, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations!
