This pan-seared scallops recipe features large sea scallops cooked to perfection in a hot skillet. The result is a delicious seafood dinner with a caramelized outside and buttery tender texture that rivals restaurant quality.
Using a cast iron skillet and a few simple ingredients like olive oil, butter, garlic, and fresh herbs, you can achieve golden brown seared scallops that are easy to prepare. This recipe includes cooking tips to help you achieve the perfect sear every time.
Preparing the Perfect Scallops
To achieve the ideal pan-seared scallops, start with high-quality dry-packed sea scallops. These large scallops should be patted dry using paper towels to eliminate excess moisture, which is essential for achieving that golden brown crust.
Once the scallops are prepped, season them generously with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances their natural flavor and contributes to the overall taste of the dish.
Choosing the Right Cooking Oil
For searing scallops, selecting the right cooking oil is crucial. A light oil with a high smoke point, such as extra virgin olive oil, is perfect for this task. Heat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers, signaling that it’s ready for the scallops.
Adding the scallops to a hot pan ensures they sear rather than steam, which is key to achieving that caramelized outside. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain the necessary heat for a perfect sear.
The Searing Process
Once the scallops are in the skillet, let them sear undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes. This allows the scallops to develop beautifully browned edges. After this time, carefully flip the scallops using tongs to avoid breaking them.
At this stage, add butter and minced garlic to the pan. As the butter melts, tilt the skillet and use a spoon to baste the scallops with the melted butter. This technique not only adds flavor but also helps achieve a buttery tender texture.
Finishing Touches
After flipping and basting for another 1-2 minutes, the scallops should be opaque and tender. Remove the pan from heat and drizzle fresh lemon juice over the scallops for a bright finish.
Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the presentation and flavor. Serving immediately ensures that the scallops retain their perfect texture, making for an impressive seafood dinner.
Serving Suggestions
These pan-seared scallops can be served on their own or alongside a variety of sides. Consider pairing them with a light salad or a bed of creamy risotto to complement their delicate flavor.
The rustic wooden table setting adds a charming touch to the presentation, making this dish not only delicious but visually appealing as well. A drizzle of garlic butter over the scallops elevates the dish to restaurant quality, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a special meal at home.
Cooking Tips for Success
To ensure your scallops turn out perfectly every time, keep these cooking tips in mind. Always start with dry scallops and ensure your skillet is adequately heated before adding them.
Monitor the cooking time closely; scallops cook quickly, and overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture. The goal is to achieve a nice sear while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
Easy Pan-Seared Scallops Recipe
These seared scallops are made with dry-packed scallops that are patted dry with paper towels to ensure a great sear. The cooking process involves heating a hot pan over medium-high heat, adding light oil with a high smoke point, and basting the scallops with melted butter and garlic for enhanced flavor. This recipe serves 2 and takes about 15 minutes from start to finish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large dry scallops, patted dry
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Scallops: Pat dry the scallops with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat the Skillet: In a cast iron skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sear the Scallops: Place the scallops in the hot skillet, ensuring they are not crowded. Sear for about 2-3 minutes without moving them until they develop a golden brown crust.
- Flip and Baste: Flip the scallops carefully using tongs. Add butter and minced garlic to the pan. As the butter melts, tilt the pan and use a spoon to baste the scallops with the melted butter for additional flavor. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the scallops are opaque and tender.
- Remove and Serve: Remove the pan from heat. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and garnish with herbs. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 2 servings
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
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