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Perfectly Seared Scallops

Perfectly Seared Scallops

The ultimate seafood dish, Perfectly Seared Scallops are a quick and elegant option for any meal. With a crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior, they are easy to make yet impressive enough for guests. Treat yourself to this delicious recipe tonight!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Seafood
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound sea scallops patted dry
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Freshly ground sea salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Lemon for squeezing, optional

Equipment

  • Frying Pan

Method
 

  1. Remove tiny side muscle from the scallops if they have them, then rinse with cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.
  2. Add the butter and oil to a large saute pan over high heat.
  3. Generously salt and pepper the scallops. Once the butter/oil combo begins to smoke, gently add the scallops, making sure they are not touching.
  4. Sear scallops for 1 and a half minutes on each side - not touching them at all while they're searing.
  5. The scallops should have a nice golden crust on each side and be translucent in the center.
  6. Serve right away!!!

Notes

  • Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.
  • Freezing: You can freeze cooked scallops for up to three months. Make sure they are cooled first and placed in an airtight container.
  • Pairing: These scallops pair beautifully with a lemon garlic pasta or a fresh arugula salad for a light meal.
  • Serving Sizes: Adjust the number of scallops based on your guests’ preferences. Generally, 4 to 6 scallops per person is a good serving size.
  • Flavor Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or dill for unique flavor profiles.
  • Cooking Method: While this recipe focuses on sautĂ©ing, consider grilling scallops for a smoky flavor.