Golden Seared Scallops

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 5 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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Golden Seared Scallops are a simple yet elegant way to elevate any meal. Perfectly seared to form a crispy crust, these scallops are then bathed in a zesty lemon-garlic sauce, making them a quick, gourmet treat.

Ingredients for Golden Seared Scallops

Scallops are the star of the show here, offering a sweet, delicate flavor that pairs beautifully with bold seasonings. Olive oil helps to form a lovely crust on the scallops while adding a hint of fruitiness. Butter adds richness and depth to the sauce. Garlic and lemon juice lend a bright, aromatic punch that complements the sweetness of the scallops. Finally, fresh parsley brings a pop of color and a fresh, herbal note to finish the dish.

Tips & Tricks

  • Ensure scallops are completely dry before cooking to achieve the best sear.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
  • Keep a close eye on the garlic to prevent it from burning.
  • Use a non-stick or well-seasoned skillet to avoid sticking.

Serving Suggestions

These scallops pair beautifully with a simple side of steamed asparagus or a fresh arugula salad. For a heartier meal, try serving them over a bed of creamy risotto or alongside buttery mashed potatoes. A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish’s flavors perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
You can use dried parsley, though fresh is best. Alternatively, try fresh dill or chives.
How do I know when scallops are cooked?
They should be opaque and firm to the touch, with a slight golden crust.

Golden Seared Scallops Recipe Walkthrough

First, you'll want to make sure your scallops are as dry as possible, so pat them down with a paper towel. This helps achieve that golden, crispy crust you're aiming for. Once dried, season both sides with a pinch of salt and a sprinkle of pepper.

Next, heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers. Carefully lay the scallops into the skillet, giving them plenty of space to breathe — this ensures they sear rather than steam. Let them cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden color.

Once seared, remove the scallops from the skillet and set them aside. Lower the heat to medium, then melt the butter in the same pan. Add the minced garlic and stir it around for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant but not browned.

Now, pour in the lemon juice and sprinkle in the parsley. Give everything a good stir to combine and let the sauce simmer briefly. Return the scallops to the skillet and gently spoon the sauce over them until they're well coated. Serve immediately, garnished with a bit more parsley for a fresh touch.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy prep — ready in under 20 minutes.
  • Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor.
  • Perfect for impressing guests or a cozy date night.
  • Versatile enough for pairing with a variety of sides.
  • Rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

Ingredients

1 lb scallops
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
1 clove garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
2. Season both sides of the scallops with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
4. Add the scallops to the skillet, making sure they do not touch, and cook for 2 minutes on each side until a golden crust forms.
5. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the skillet.
7. Stir in minced garlic, cooking until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
8. Pour in lemon juice and add chopped parsley, stirring to combine.
9. Return the scallops to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to coat.
10. Serve immediately with an additional sprinkle of parsley.

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