Seared Scallops

Seared scallops are a delightful seafood dish with a beautifully caramelized crust and a tender, buttery interior, Perfect for a romantic dinner, a special occasion, or simply a weeknight treat, seared scallops bring a taste of fine dining to your home with minimal effort.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This seared scallops recipe is a true culinary gem that combines simplicity with gourmet flair. The rich, savory flavors of the scallops are enhanced by a quick sear in a hot pan, resulting in a dish that’s both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious. Not only is it quick to prepare—taking less than 15 minutes from start to finish—but it also fits well into low-carb and gluten-free diets, making it a perfect choice for health-conscious eaters. The versatility of this dish allows you to easily pair it with various sides, making it suitable for any occasion.

Tips and Tricks

To achieve perfectly seared scallops, here are some tips:

• Pat them dry: Before cooking, use paper towels to remove excess moisture from the scallops. This step is crucial for achieving that golden crust.
• Use a hot pan: Preheat your skillet to medium-high heat before adding oil. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary; overcrowding will lower the pan temperature and prevent a good sear.
• Season just before cooking: Salt draws moisture out, so season the scallops right before they hit the pan to keep them juicy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks run into a few common pitfalls when preparing seared scallops:

• Overcooking: Scallops only need about 2-3 minutes on each side. Overcooking can make them tough and chewy.
• Not using enough heat: A properly heated pan is key to achieving that golden crust. If your pan isn’t hot enough, the scallops will steam instead of sear.
• Skipping the drying step: This leads to a lack of color and texture. Always dry your scallops before cooking.

Make Ahead Tips

While seared scallops are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components in advance:

• Prep the sauce: If you’re adding a sauce, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Marinate: If you decide to marinate your scallops (with a simple mix of olive oil and herbs), you can do this for up to an hour before cooking for enhanced flavor.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to switch things up with these variations:

• Herbaceous touch: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or parsley during cooking for a burst of flavor.
• Citrus twist: Add a splash of lemon or orange juice right before serving for a refreshing zing.
• Spicy scallops: Sprinkle a bit of chili flakes or cayenne pepper in the pan for a spicy kick.

How to Serve

To serve your seared scallops, arrange them artfully on a plate. A drizzle of lemon butter sauce or herb-infused oil works beautifully as a garnish. Pair them with a fresh arugula salad, creamy risotto, or sautéed asparagus for a well-rounded meal. A simple sprinkle of microgreens or edible flowers can elevate the presentation to a restaurant-quality dish.

Pairing Suggestions

Pair your seared scallops with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light, citrusy cocktail like a gin and tonic. For side dishes, consider serving them with a zesty lemon quinoa salad or a velvety parsnip puree. For dessert, a light sorbet or panna cotta would complement the meal perfectly.

How to Store

Leftover seared scallops can be tricky, as they are best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For freezing, place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking, and they can last up to a month. To reheat, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.

Equipment Needed

You will need a heavy skillet or cast iron pan for optimal heat retention and even cooking. If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, a stainless-steel skillet will work as well. A good pair of tongs is handy for flipping the scallops without damaging them.

Dietary Adaptations

For a vegan alternative, consider using king oyster mushrooms sliced to mimic scallops. Marinate them in the same way and sear them until golden. This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but ensure any sauces or sides you choose are also gluten-free. For dairy-free adaptations, substitute butter with olive oil or a dairy-free alternative.

Seasonal Adaptations

In spring and summer, pair your scallops with fresh peas or asparagus for a seasonal touch. In the fall, consider incorporating roasted root vegetables or a pumpkin puree for a comforting twist. In winter, serve with citrus salads to brighten up the plate.

Cost Breakdown

The estimated cost for this seared scallops recipe is around $15 – $20 for two servings, depending on the market price of scallops. To keep costs down, consider choosing smaller scallops or substituting with shrimp or another seafood option that’s on sale.

Kitchen Hacks

To make cooking easier, use a non-stick spray on your skillet to ensure that the scallops release easily. If you’re chopping fresh herbs, use kitchen scissors for a quick and no-mess approach. And when slicing shallots or garlic, use a food processor to save time and tears.

Recipe FAQs

• Can I use frozen scallops? Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
• Can I substitute scallops with another seafood? Absolutely! Shrimp or fish fillets can work as great alternatives.
• What’s the best way to know when scallops are done? They should be opaque and firm to the touch, not rubbery.

How To Make seared scallops recipe

Yield: 2

Seared Scallops

Print

Seared scallops are a delightful seafood dish with a beautifully caramelized crust and a tender, buttery interior, Perfect for a romantic dinner, a special occasion, or simply a weeknight treat

Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Total Time 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound of fresh sea scallops
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Fresh herbs for garnish (e.g., parsley or chives)

Instructions

1. Start by patting the scallops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Wait until the oil is hot, shimmering but not smoking.
3. Carefully add the scallops to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes without moving them.
4. Once a golden crust forms, flip the scallops using tongs. Add the butter to the pan and allow it to melt, spooning the melted butter over the scallops as they cook for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Once cooked, remove the scallops from the heat. Drizzle with lemon juice and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Nutrition Information

Yield

2

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 482Total Fat 27gSaturated Fat 10gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 15gCholesterol 124mgSodium 1896mgCarbohydrates 14gFiber 1gSugar 0gProtein 47g

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.

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Final Thoughts

Making seared scallops at home is a rewarding culinary experience that’s sure to impress. With a few simple techniques and fresh ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in no time. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor the deliciousness of these elegant seafood gems!