Perfectly Seared Scallops – A Quick and Elegant Seafood Dish
Growing up, my family would often celebrate special occasions with a seafood feast. One dish that always stood out was the perfectly seared scallops, a dish that my grandmother would prepare with such love and care. The aroma of the scallops sizzling in the pan would fill the kitchen, creating an atmosphere of warmth and joy. This recipe not only brings back those cherished memories but also allows me to recreate that same magic in my own home.
What Makes It Special
This recipe for perfectly seared scallops is a true gem for several reasons:
- Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a gourmet dish ready in under 15 minutes.
- Elegant Presentation: The golden-brown crust of the scallops makes for a stunning presentation, perfect for impressing guests.
- Versatile Flavor: The simple seasoning allows the natural sweetness of the scallops to shine through, making it a delightful dish for any palate.
Gather Your Ingredients
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Servings: 2
- 8 large sea scallops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Fresh lemon wedges for serving
Let’s Get Cooking
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Start by patting the scallops dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful sear.
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Season both sides of the scallops generously with salt and pepper.
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In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
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Carefully place the scallops in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on one side until a golden crust forms.
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Flip the scallops and add the butter to the pan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, basting the scallops with the melted butter.
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Remove the scallops from the skillet and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges.
My Pro Tips
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For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding minced garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the butter while basting.
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Make sure your scallops are at room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking.
What to Serve With It
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Steamed asparagus
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- A glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen scallops?
A: Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best results.
The Heart of the Dish
Cooking these scallops is not just about the food; it’s about the memories and the love that goes into each dish. Every time I prepare this recipe, I am reminded of my grandmother’s kitchen and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. I hope this dish brings you as much happiness as it has brought me.
Your Turn
I invite you to try this recipe for perfectly seared scallops. Feel free to tweak it to your liking and share your experiences. I would love to hear how it turns out for you!
Perfectly Seared Scallops – A Quick and Elegant Seafood Dish
Ingredients
- 1 pound large sea scallops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season with salt and black pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the scallops to the skillet, making sure they are not overcrowded.
- Sear the scallops for about 2-3 minutes on one side until golden brown.
- Flip the scallops and add butter and minced garlic to the skillet.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, basting the scallops with the melted butter.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
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