Romantic Seared Scallops

Name: Romantic Seared Scallops
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 8 large sea scallops; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Everyday Inspiration

I can't get enough of these rich, buttery scallops! Whenever I make them, I'm transported to a cozy seaside restaurant where the ocean breeze mingles with the scent of garlic and lemon. The sear on these scallops creates that delicious crispy edge while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Whether it's a special date night or an unexpected celebration, this dish is always a hit at my table. Join me on this culinary adventure, and let's indulge in a captivating evening with each exquisite bite.

Created by

Olwen Bradford

Last updated on 2026-01-12T03:17:34.938Z

Making seared scallops has become one of my go-to dishes, especially for romantic evenings at home. The method is simple yet crucial: I always pat the scallops dry to ensure that perfect golden-brown crust. It's a small tip that makes a massive difference in texture and flavor. When they hit the hot skillet, they truly transform!

One time, I paired these scallops with a lemon butter sauce that was so lush and velvety, it elevated the entire meal. My partner raved about it, and now it's a staple in our household. It’s all about crafting layers of flavor in each bite, creating a culinary experience that both of us cherish deeply.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Delicately seared scallops with a perfect golden crust
Rich, lemony butter sauce that enhances the seafood flavor
Easy to make yet impressive enough for a romantic dinner

Getting the Perfect Sear

The key to achieving a beautiful sear on your scallops lies in proper drying and heating. Before cooking, ensure that your scallops are patted thoroughly dry. This step is crucial; excess moisture can prevent that coveted golden crust from forming. When you're ready to sear, use a heavy skillet, preferably cast iron, and preheat it on high until the oil shimmers. This indicates that the pan is sufficiently hot, allowing for a perfect, crispy edge within 2-3 minutes.

Avoid overcrowding the pan as this can cause the temperature to drop and steam the scallops instead of sear them. If you're making a larger batch, work in batches and keep the cooked scallops warm in a low oven (around 200°F) while finishing the rest. This way, each scallop maintains its ideal texture—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside.

Lemon Butter Sauce Variations

While the lemon butter sauce recipe is delightful as written, you can experiment with additional flavors. For a hint of spiciness, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. If you enjoy herbs, fresh dill or chives can replace parsley, adding a unique twist that pairs beautifully with scallops. Just remember to add herbs at the end to keep their flavor vibrant.

Additionally, should you find yourself without fresh lemons, using 1-2 tablespoons of white wine can provide a pleasant acidity. Simply reduce the sauce slightly after adding the wine, allowing it to blend with the butter before returning the scallops to the pan. This gives a lovely depth to the flavor profile and enhances that seaside ambiance.

Ingredients

For the Scallops

8 large sea scallops
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Lemon Butter Sauce

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Prepare the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.

Sear the Scallops

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over high heat. When the oil is shimmering, carefully place the scallops in the skillet. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Squeeze in the lemon juice and add the parsley, stirring to combine.

Serve

Return the scallops to the skillet to coat in the sauce. Serve warm with a drizzle of the sauce over the top.

Pro Tips

Always ensure your scallops are perfectly dry before cooking to achieve that beautiful sear.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, store the cooked scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, be cautious when reheating, as scallops can easily become rubbery. Gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Cover the pan briefly to create steam, which can help in reheating without losing texture.

It's best to avoid freezing scallops that have already been cooked, as they may lose their delicate texture upon thawing. If you want to prep ahead, consider cooking the lemon butter sauce separately and refrigerating it. This sauce can also be reheated gently when you're ready to serve.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the rich and buttery flavors of the scallops, consider serving them over a bed of lightly sautéed or steamed asparagus, or alongside a fresh arugula salad. The peppery notes of arugula and the crunch from toasted nuts can balance the richness of the dish beautifully. Pairing with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Chardonnay, can elevate your dining experience further.

For a heartier meal, consider serving the scallops with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or a creamy risotto. These starchy sides can absorb the lovely lemon butter sauce, making for a satisfying and indulgent plate that celebrates the seafood.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry.

→ How do I know when scallops are done?

Scallops should be opaque in the center and have a minimum internal temperature of 130°F.

→ What can I serve with seared scallops?

They pair beautifully with risotto, pasta, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.