Seared Sea Scallops
Seared Sea Scallops
Seared sea scallops are a delicacy that highlights the natural sweetness and delicate texture of the scallops. The key to perfect searing is high heat and not overcooking. This simple recipe creates a beautifully browned exterior with a tender, buttery interior.
Ingredients
(Serves 2)
- 12-16 fresh sea scallops (preferably dry-packed)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Fresh parsley or microgreens for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Scallops
- Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. This is essential for achieving a good sear.
- Season the scallops with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
2. Heat the Pan
- Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (preferably cast iron or non-stick) over medium-high heat.
- Add the olive oil and allow it to heat up until shimmering, but not smoking.
3. Sear the Scallops
- Carefully place the scallops in the pan, making sure they are not overcrowded. You may need to do this in batches.
- Sear the scallops without moving them for about 2-3 minutes on the first side, or until they develop a deep golden brown crust.
- Flip the scallops over using tongs or a spatula and sear the other side for an additional 1-2 minutes, until they are just opaque in the center and still tender. The scallops should be firm but moist inside, not rubbery.
4. Finish with Butter and Lemon
- Add the butter to the pan and swirl it around until it melts.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the scallops and spoon the melted butter over them for extra flavor.
5. Serve
- Transfer the scallops to a serving plate, drizzle with the butter sauce from the pan, and garnish with fresh parsley or microgreens.
Tips
- Dry-packed Scallops: If possible, use dry-packed scallops as they sear better and have a more natural flavor. Wet-packed scallops contain added moisture and can release liquid when cooking, preventing a nice sear.
- Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: If you're making a larger batch, sear the scallops in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause steaming instead of searing.
- Cooking Time: Scallops cook quickly, so be careful not to overcook them. They should feel firm to the touch but still tender inside.
These Seared Sea Scallops are perfect as an appetizer, over pasta, or served alongside a light salad or vegetable dish. The buttery lemon sauce enhances their natural sweetness, creating a restaurant-quality dish at home. 🦪🍋🧈
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