Romantic Seared Scallops

Name: Romantic Seared Scallops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 12 large sea scallops; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 clove garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh Ideas

I love making Romantic Seared Scallops for special occasions or just a cozy dinner at home. The combination of perfectly seared scallops with a rich, buttery sauce creates an elegant dish that feels gourmet yet is surprisingly simple to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, it's ideal for impressing a loved one or enjoying a treat yourself. The key is getting that perfect sear, which enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops, making every bite a delightful experience.

Created by

Lorna Whitcombe

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:59:39.549Z

When I first attempted to make seared scallops, I was nervous but excited about what I could create. Each scallop requires a precise moment of heat to achieve that golden crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy. After several trials, I discovered that a hot skillet and dry scallops are the secrets to success.

Adding a splash of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh herbs transforms this dish into something truly magnificent. I love to serve them on a creamy bed of risotto or alongside sautéed vegetables for a complete dining experience that feels both opulent and comforting.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A delicate balance of flavors that dazzles the palate.
Quick and easy preparation makes it perfect for date night.
Impressive presentation with minimal effort, ideal for entertaining.

Searing Scallops to Perfection

Achieving that golden, crispy crust on your scallops is crucial for both flavor and texture. Before searing, make sure your scallops are thoroughly dried with paper towels; moisture is the enemy when it comes to getting a good sear. Additionally, season them generously with salt and pepper just before cooking to help enhance their natural sweetness. If you notice any moisture in the pan while cooking, simply increase the heat slightly to evaporate it and maintain that high-temperature searing environment.

When searing, ensure your skillet is sufficiently hot. Many recipes recommend medium-high heat, but I often find that a true high heat is best for scallops. Look for the oil in your skillet to shimmer or lightly smoke before adding the scallops. If they stick to the pan when you attempt to flip them, they're not ready—just give them an extra minute. This technique helps prevent the scallops from steaming and promotes that sought-after Maillard reaction, resulting in a beautiful crust.

Elevating Your Sauce

One of the beauties of this scallop dish is its simple yet elegant sauce. The combination of butter and lemon juice not only brings moisture to the dish but also balances the richness of the scallops. When adding the minced garlic to the melted butter, be sure to sauté it just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. This prevents the garlic from burning, which can impart a bitter taste to the sauce. Stir constantly to prevent it from browning too quickly; you're after a fragrant base, not a burnt layer.

If you're looking to add an extra layer of flavor to your sauce, consider deglazing the pan with a splash of white wine after removing the scallops. This can create a more complex sauce by incorporating those delicious brown bits left in the skillet. After adding the wine, allow it to reduce for a minute before incorporating the lemon juice and returning the scallops to the pan. This small change can elevate the sauce, making it even more luxurious without adding much extra effort.

Ingredients

For the Scallops

12 large sea scallops
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 clove garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper. This step is crucial for achieving that golden crust.

Sear the Scallops

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the scallops in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Make the Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same pan. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Pour in the lemon juice, stirring to combine, and return the scallops to the pan to coat them in the sauce.

Serve

Plate the scallops, drizzle with the sauce, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For the best results, ensure that the skillet is hot before adding the scallops to prevent sticking and to achieve a proper sear.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

While seared scallops are best enjoyed fresh, there are ways to prep in advance. You can pat the scallops dry and season them a few hours ahead of time; just keep them covered in the fridge until you're ready to cook. This allows the seasoning to adhere better and can enhance the flavor. However, I do recommend cooking them on the day you plan to serve them to retain their delicate texture and ensure they remain tender.

If you have leftover cooked scallops, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just be aware that reheating can toughen them; to gently warm, use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of broth or water to help maintain moisture and cover to avoid further drying out.

Serving Suggestions

Romantic Seared Scallops shine when served over a bed of creamy risotto or alongside a light salad. The rich sauce complements the creamy texture of risotto, while a bright salad can add a refreshing contrast. Consider using seasonal greens and citrus fruits to enhance the dish's flavor and presentation. A side of garlic bread also works well to soak up the leftover sauce, making your meal feel complete.

For an elegant touch, you might serve the scallops on a platter garnished with microgreens or edible flowers. This creates a visually stunning presentation perfect for special occasions. Pair your scallops with a crisp glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, to perfectly complement the dish, enhancing both the flavors of the scallops and the acidity of the sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What side dishes pair well with scallops?

Great options include risotto, asparagus, or a light salad.

→ How do I know when scallops are done?

They should be opaque throughout and have a nice golden color on the outside.

→ Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

It's best to make the sauce fresh just before serving to keep the flavors vibrant.