Golden Pan-Seared Scallops

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 6 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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If you're looking to impress with minimal effort, these Golden Pan-Seared Scallops are the way to go. They deliver a restaurant-quality dish right from your kitchen, and the entire process is surprisingly quick and simple. Perfect for a weeknight treat or a special occasion!

Ingredients for Golden Pan-Seared Scallops

Scallops are the star of the show, offering a sweet, delicate flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. Always go for fresh sea scallops for the best taste and texture.

Unsalted butter is used to help achieve that golden crust and adds a rich, creamy flavor without overpowering the scallops.

Olive oil helps to raise the smoking point of the butter, ensuring a perfect sear without burning.

Salt and black pepper are simple seasonings that enhance the natural sweetness of the scallops without masking their flavor.

Lemon slices add a fresh burst of acidity that complements the richness of the butter and scallops.

Fresh parsley provides a pop of color and a hint of herby freshness to the finished dish.

Tips & Tricks

  • Ensure scallops are thoroughly dried to avoid steaming instead of searing.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary for the best results.
  • Keep a close eye on the butter; if it begins to brown too quickly, lower the heat slightly.

Serving Suggestions

These scallops pair wonderfully with a light arugula salad or a side of garlic butter pasta. For a more substantial meal, consider serving them alongside creamy risotto or a fresh vegetable medley.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, just make sure they're fully thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture.
What if I don't have fresh parsley?
Feel free to substitute with other fresh herbs like dill or chives, or simply omit if unavailable.
How can I tell if the scallops are cooked through?
They should be opaque in the center and have a firm texture when pressed lightly.

Golden Pan-Seared Scallops Recipe Walkthrough

Start by patting the scallops dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown sear. If there's any excess moisture, the scallops will steam instead of sear.

Generously season both sides of the scallops with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don't be shy; seasoning is key to bringing out their natural flavors.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when it starts shimmering, indicating it's hot enough for a good sear.

Add the butter to the skillet. Once it melts and starts to foam, you'll want to act quickly. This is when you add the scallops in a single layer. Make sure they aren't touching; overcrowding will lead to steaming.

Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side. You're looking for a golden crust to form, and the center should be opaque. Avoid moving them around too much; let them sit and develop that crust.

Remove the scallops promptly from the skillet to prevent overcooking. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over them to enhance the flavor profile with a bright, acidic kick.

Finish by garnishing with chopped parsley and serve immediately with extra lemon slices on the side. This dish is best enjoyed fresh!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare in under 15 minutes.
  • Uses simple, fresh ingredients for maximum flavor.
  • Creates a beautifully golden crust that's irresistible.
  • Perfectly balances rich buttery notes with a touch of citrus.

Ingredients

1 lb fresh sea scallops
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt to taste
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1 lemon, sliced
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to ensure a perfect sear.
2. Season both sides of the scallops generously with salt and black pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
4. Add the butter and let it melt completely.
5. Once the butter starts to foam, add the scallops in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch.
6. Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until a golden crust forms and the center is opaque.
7. Remove the scallops from the skillet and squeeze fresh lemon juice over them.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with additional lemon slices.

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