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Learn how to make perfectly seared scallops with this easy recipe! You only need 5 simple ingredients to make this impressive recipe. Perfect for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion!
How to cook Scallops
Scallops are one of those things that are SO simple to cook, and yet, so simple to screw up. I have to admit I botched a few batches myself back in the day (it was like eating rubber!), but with their hefty price tag, I quickly made it my mission to learn the key to a perfectly seared scallop. And by perfect, I mean a scallop with a flavorful crust and an interior so tender it basically melts in your mouth. That’s perfection!The good thing about this whole post is that perfectly seared scallops are easy as 1-2-3. I totally was going to type “easy as pie”, but ya know, these little guys are so much easier than that whole situation 😉
The first thing you want to do is make sure you have good quality scallops. I know they’re pricey, but I think that if you’re going to put in the effort – especially with seafood – freshness and quality are always key. So get the best you can.
Once you’ve selected your scallops, all you need to do is pat them dry, sprinkle them well with salt and pepper (freshly grated is always the best!), and toss them in a buttered hot skillet.
Now! Here’s where you need to pay attention – do not over cook these babies! I repeat: DO NOT OVERCOOK. Pardon the yelling; but that part is so crucial!!!
Oh, and serve these sensational scallops right away!!! They shouldn’t wait more than a few minutes before entering a mouth. And just a heads up – they always taste best fresh from the skillet, so I’d suggest stealing one or two straight from the pan before serving 😉
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Scallop Recipes
- Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Caper Sauce
- Honey-Glazed Scallops
- Pan-Seared Scallops with Tomatoes, Olives, and Capers
Perfectly Seared Scallops
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
Instructions
- Remove tiny side muscle from the scallops if they have them, then rinse with cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.
- Add the butter and oil to a large saute pan over high heat.
- Generously salt and pepper the scallops. Once the butter/oil combo begins to smoke, gently add the scallops, making sure they are not touching. Sear scallops for 1 1/2 minutes on each side - not touching them at all while they're searing. The scallops should have a nice golden crust on each side and be translucent in the center. Serve right away!!!
UM, UM, SO DELICIOUS!
This recipe is so easy, quick and delicious! It will be part of the Father’s day meal I am making for my husband tonight
Fantastic. I made before but never were this good. you just need to stay on top of every detail just like you mentioned. timing was perfect. Will be making more often now. Delicious!!!,
The BEST I’ve ever made ! Thank-you!
These scollops were THE BEST!!! Thank you for sharing this. We love scollops, but they are pricie but now they aren’t, by fixing them at home! THANKS again. JoAnne
What do you think if I lightly dusted them with cornstarch? I serve mine with asparagus when it’s in season. Today I’m going to pair them with sauteed yellow squash, onions, portobello mushrooms and couscous with carmelized onions. SO yummy! I prepare my sides first and keep them warm so that the last thing I do is sear the scallops and serve it all immediately! Thank you for your recipe!