Description
“Master the art of perfectly seared scallops with this quick and easy recipe. Enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home in under 10 minutes with a golden crust and delicate, sweet flavor. Perfect for special occasions or a gourmet weeknight meal!”
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound large sea scallops (about 10–12)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Scallops
- Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Season both sides lightly with salt and black pepper.
- Heat the Pan
- Use a heavy-bottomed pan, preferably stainless steel or cast iron.
- Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Sear the Scallops
- Place scallops in the pan without overcrowding.
- Let them cook undisturbed for 1.5 to 2 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms.
- Flip each scallop and add butter (and garlic, if using) to the pan.
- Cook for another 1.5 to 2 minutes while spooning the melted butter over the scallops.
- Finish and Serve
- Remove from the pan and drizzle with lemon juice.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
- Serve immediately with your choice of side.
Notes
- Garlic Butter Scallops – Increase butter and add more garlic for a richer flavor.
- Spicy Scallops – Sprinkle with red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
- Citrus Zest – Add orange or lime zest for a fresh twist.
- Herb-Infused – Cook with fresh thyme or rosemary in the butter.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 minutes
- Category: seafood
- Method: Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: American,french
Keywords: Seared scallops, perfect scallops, pan-seared scallops, easy scallops recipe, gourmet seafood dish