Quick Seared Scallops

Name: Quick Seared Scallops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 8 large sea scallops; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; Fresh lemon juice; Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love preparing Quick Seared Scallops for a light yet impressive meal. The way they sear to a beautiful golden brown in just minutes perfectly captures the flavor of the sea, and it's so easy to make! This dish is a true crowd-pleaser, and every time I serve it, I get compliments from family and friends. Whether enjoyed as a fancy appetizer or a simple main course, the combination of textures and tastes makes this recipe a must-try for any seafood lover.

Created by

Imogen Walker

Last updated on 2026-01-20T03:19:11.629Z

During one of my recent cooking adventures, I decided to try searing scallops, which I had always found intimidating but ultimately so rewarding. I learned that the key is to let the pan get piping hot before adding the scallops to achieve that perfect golden crust. The intrigue of hearing them sizzle as they hit the hot skillet is a sound I’ll never tire of!

The first time I perfected this dish, I wanted to keep it simple to let the scallops shine. Just a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh herbs elevate the dish without overpowering it. Trust me; every bite is a thrilling experience of flavor!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick cooking time ensures a fresh meal in minutes
Perfectly seared scallops with a delightful crust
Versatile enough for an elegant dinner or a casual weeknight meal

      

Mastering the Technique

Searing scallops may seem intimidating, but with a little practice, you'll achieve the perfect golden crust every time. The key is to start with dry scallops, as moisture can prevent a proper sear. Pat them thoroughly with paper towels; this step is crucial for attaining that coveted caramelization. Additionally, ensuring your skillet is hot enough—look for shimmering oil—is vital for speed and texture in your cooking.

When placing the scallops in the skillet, leave ample space between them to facilitate even cooking and browning. Overcrowding the pan traps steam, which can lead to rubbery textures rather than that delightful sear. Also, resist the urge to constantly move the scallops around; let them sit for about 2-3 minutes on each side to develop that beautiful crust.

Ingredient Insights

Using fresh sea scallops enhances the overall flavor of this dish. Opt for 'dry' scallops—those that aren’t treated with preservatives—as they offer a cleaner taste and cook better. While larger scallops can be stunning, don’t shy away from medium-sized ones if that’s what you have available. They can still acquire the same rich flavor and texture if cooked correctly.

The addition of butter towards the end of cooking not only adds richness but also promotes a glossy finish. Swirling the butter in the pan allows it to infuse the scallops with flavor without overwhelming their natural sweetness. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can replace butter with a high-quality extra virgin olive oil, though it won’t provide the same rich flavor.

Ingredients

For the Scallops:

8 large sea scallops
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
Fresh lemon juice
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Ensure your scallops are dry for the best sear!

Instructions

Prepare the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with paper towels, then 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

Add scallops to the pan in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Add Butter

In the last minute of cooking, add butter to the pan, swirling it to coat the scallops for extra flavor.

Serve

Remove scallops from the skillet and drizzle with fresh lemon juice. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Serve immediately for the best taste!

Pro Tips

Rest your scallops for a minute before serving to lock in the flavors. Experiment with different herbs for a unique twist!

Serving Suggestions

These Quick Seared Scallops can be served elegantly atop a bed of creamy risotto or alongside a light arugula salad for a refreshing contrast. A citrusy vinaigrette can enhance the freshness, making it a perfect pairing. Alternatively, consider serving them on small skewers as a stunning appetizer for gatherings, allowing guests to enjoy the flavors with minimal fuss.

For a more robust meal, pair with seasonal vegetables, like steamed asparagus or sautéed spinach, which can be ready in the same timeframe as the scallops. This combination not only completes the dish visually but also ensures a balanced plate of flavor and nutrition.

Make-Ahead and Storage

While seared scallops are best enjoyed fresh, you can prep elements ahead of time. Clean and season your scallops in advance, storing them covered in the refrigerator, but aim to cook them up to an hour before serving for optimal texture. I recommend preparing a complementary sauce or side dish in advance to streamline dinner prep.

Leftovers, if any, can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours but may lose some of their texture. To reheat, use a gentle approach—like a microwave on low power—for about 30 seconds, flipping halfway through. However, take caution not to overheat, as scallops tend to become rubbery when reheated.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What else can I serve with scallops?

They pair wonderfully with risotto, pasta, or a fresh salad.

→ How do I know when the scallops are cooked?

They should be opaque and firm to the touch, about 3-4 minutes per side.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Scallops are best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients a few hours in advance.