Quick Seared Scallops

Name: Quick Seared Scallops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 10 large sea scallops; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I always savor the delightful experience of cooking scallops. This Quick Seared Scallops recipe is my go-to for impressing dinner guests or enjoying a luxurious meal at home. The method is simple yet effective, ensuring that the scallops are crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside. With just a few ingredients and about 20 minutes of my time, I can create a gourmet dish that shines, full of rich flavors that elevate the palette and make any evening special.

Created by

Jasmine Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-20T01:46:10.970Z

My journey with scallops began with a desire to create an elegant dish that doesn't take hours in the kitchen. I discovered that the key to perfect scallops is a hot pan and precise timing. The caramelization that happens when the scallops hit the heat is nothing short of magical. Every time I cook them, I’m reminded of my first experience, where the rich, buttery flavor simply melted in my mouth.

What I love most is how versatile they are; adding a simple lemon butter sauce brings brightness that complements the scallops beautifully. I’ve experimented with various spices and sides, but the classic pairing wins every time. It’s a dish that encourages creativity while remaining impressively easy.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Quick cooking time for a gourmet dish
Elegant presentation that impresses at any occasion
Deliciously buttery flavor with a perfect sear

      

Choosing the Right Scallops

When selecting scallops for this recipe, freshness is key to achieving optimal flavor and texture. Look for large sea scallops that are firm and have a slightly glossy appearance. Avoid any scallops that have a strong fishy odor or are slimy to the touch. If you're using frozen scallops, be sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, and pat them dry thoroughly before cooking to ensure a proper sear.

Scallops are best cooked straight from their natural state without any additional marinades. This allows the sweetness of the scallops to shine through. If you’re limited to smaller bay scallops, consider adjusting the cooking time—these will only need about 1-2 minutes per side to get a beautiful golden color without overcooking.

Perfecting the Sear

Achieving a perfect sear is all about heat control. Make sure your skillet is hot before you add the scallops; the olive oil should shimmer but not smoke. If the oil starts smoking, reduce the heat slightly. When you place the scallops in the pan, they should sizzle immediately. If you have crowded the pan, the temperature will drop, leading to steamed rather than seared scallops.

It's essential not to move the scallops around once they hit the pan; let them caramelize undisturbed for the first 2-3 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they release easily from the pan and have developed a rich golden crust. If they stick, give them another minute and try again.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful meal:

Scallops

10 large sea scallops
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Make sure to use the freshest scallops for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps for perfectly seared scallops:

Prepare the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel and season them with salt and pepper.

Heat the Pan

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.

Sear the Scallops

Add the scallops to the pan, making sure they are not overcrowded. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Make the Sauce

Remove the scallops from the pan and add butter and lemon juice. Stir until melted and combined.

Serve

Drizzle the sauce over scallops and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding garlic to the butter sauce for enhanced flavor.

Storing and Reheating

To store leftover scallops, let them cool to room temperature and transfer them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, for the best texture and flavor, it’s advisable to enjoy them fresh. If you need to reheat them, briefly warm scallops in a skillet over low heat for no more than a minute, just until heated through.

Avoid reheating in the microwave as this can turn scallops rubbery and tough. Instead, adding a splash of water to the skillet while reheating can help maintain moisture, ensuring they're still tender.

Serving Suggestions

When serving the scallops, consider pairing them with a light side salad or a creamy risotto to balance their rich flavor. The bright acidity of the lemon in the sauce beautifully complements the buttery scallops, so adding a side of asparagus or sautéed greens can enhance the overall experience.

For a special touch, consider serving scallops on a bed of cauliflower puree or alongside a citrus salsa for a vibrant color contrast and added flavor. Garnishing with additional fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh herbal note that enhances the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

→ What side dishes pair well with scallops?

They pair beautifully with a light salad, asparagus, or creamy risotto.

→ How do I know when the scallops are done?

They should be opaque and firm to the touch; avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.

→ Can I substitute the butter in the sauce?

You can use ghee or a plant-based butter alternative for a different flavor profile.