Seared scallops are a quick and elegant seafood dish that can elevate any meal. With a golden crust on the outside and a tender, buttery interior, they are a favorite for both special occasions and weeknight dinners.
This recipe is simple and requires minimal ingredients, allowing the natural flavor of the scallops to shine. Pair them with a light sauce or serve over a bed of greens for a delightful presentation.
Easy Seared Scallops Recipe
This recipe features fresh sea scallops seared to perfection in a hot skillet, resulting in a deliciously caramelized exterior. The dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and serves 2 people.
Ingredients
- 12 large sea scallops, patted dry
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh lemon juice for serving
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Scallops: Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sear the Scallops: Carefully place the scallops in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for about 2-3 minutes without moving them, until a golden crust forms.
- Flip and Finish: Gently flip the scallops and add the butter to the pan. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, basting the scallops with the melted butter until they are opaque and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the scallops from the skillet and drizzle with fresh lemon juice. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 2 servings
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
