Seared scallops are a simple yet fancy dish that can impress anyone! With their crispy outside and soft, buttery inside, they’re a treat for the taste buds.
Cooking them is quick and fun! Just a hot pan and a little oil, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time. Don’t forget the lemon – it makes everything better! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Scallops: Large sea scallops are the star here, offering a sweet, buttery taste. If you can’t find them, bay scallops will work, but reduce cooking time as they’re smaller.
Olive Oil: This oil adds flavor and helps achieve a nice sear. If you prefer, you can use avocado oil, which has a higher smoke point.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal to control the seasoning. You can use ghee for a dairy-free option or a plant-based butter if needed.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can substitute in a pinch—just 1/4 teaspoon will do.
Herbs: Fresh parsley and chives add brightness. Don’t have those? Try dill or basil for a different twist. Dried herbs can work but fresh is always better!
How Do You Get a Perfect Sear on Scallops?
The perfect sear gives scallops their wonderful texture and flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by drying the scallops well with paper towels; excess moisture can prevent browning.
- Heat your skillet on medium-high until it’s hot—not smoking. You want it hot enough to sear but not burn.
- Add the olive oil and let it shimmer. This means it’s ready for the scallops.
- Place scallops carefully in the pan, ensuring they’re spaced out. This helps them cook evenly.
- Don’t flip them too soon! Let them sear for 2-3 minutes until they’re golden brown.
- When flipping, wait for the second side to get that same nice color. The cooking process is quick, so keep an eye on them.
Following these tips will give you that lovely golden crust while keeping the inside tender!
Seared Scallops with Garlic Herb Butter and Citrus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large sea scallops (about 12)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives or green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (or orange juice, as suggested by orange slices)
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- Lemon or orange slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes of prep and cooking time. The scallops cook quickly, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Scallops:
Start by patting the scallops dry with paper towels. This step is essential to get that lovely golden-brown sear! After drying, season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This not only enhances their flavor but also helps create a nice crust when cooking.
2. Heat the Pan:
Place a large skillet on the stove over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat until it shimmers. You’ll want it hot but not smoking—this is the perfect temperature to sear your scallops!
3. Sear the Scallops:
Carefully place the scallops in the skillet, making sure to space them out. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this could lead to steaming instead of searing. Let them cook without moving them for about 2 to 3 minutes until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust.
4. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Now it’s time to flip the scallops! Gently turn each one over and sear the other side for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re opaque and cooked through—they cook quickly, so keep an eye on them! Once done, remove the scallops from the pan and set them on a plate.
5. Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. Allow it to melt, then add the minced garlic and diced red onion. Sauté for about 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the onion has softened.
6. Combine the Flavors:
Stir in the chopped parsley and chives along with the citrus juice. Allow this sauce to simmer for about 30 seconds so the flavors can meld together perfectly. The aroma will be amazing!
7. Return the Scallops:
Add the seared scallops back into the pan, spooning the delicious garlic-herb butter sauce over them. Warm them through for about a minute, allowing the scallops to soak up all that tasty goodness.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Your scallops are now ready to be served! You can either present them in the pan for a lovely table display or transfer them to a plate. Don’t forget to drizzle extra sauce over the top and garnish with fresh herbs and lemon or orange slices for that extra touch. Enjoy your perfectly seared scallops with vibrant fresh herbs and citrus notes!
Can I Use Frozen Scallops in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops! Just be sure to thaw them completely in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for quicker thawing. Make sure to pat them dry before cooking for a good sear!
Can I Substitute the Butter with Olive Oil?
Absolutely! If you want to make this dish dairy-free or lower in saturated fat, substitute unsalted butter with additional olive oil. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be a bit different, but it will still be delicious!
How to Store Leftover Scallops?
Store leftover scallops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat to prevent them from becoming tough. Adding a splash of broth or a little butter can help keep them moist.
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it over pasta, creamy risotto, or with a fresh green salad. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread also make excellent accompaniments!
