Irresistible Crispy Pan-Seared Scallops Recipe to Try

Crispy Pan-Seared Scallops are the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture this: succulent scallops, golden-brown on the outside and tender on the inside, with a crisp edge that practically sings as you take your first bite. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses and promising an experience that’s nothing short of divine. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.

Now, let me tell you about the first time I made these beauties. It was a cozy Friday night, and I was trying to impress my friends with my “chef skills.” Spoiler alert: they were impressed! Nothing screams “I have my life together” like a perfectly cooked scallop dish. So grab your apron and get ready for a flavor explosion!

I remember my friends’ reactions when I served these scallops; their eyes lit up like kids in a candy store.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Scallops: Look for plump, sweet scallops that feel firm to the touch—freshness is key for this dish.
• Salt: A good sprinkle enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops without overpowering their delicate flavor.
• Pepper: Freshly cracked pepper adds a lovely warmth and subtle kick to each bite.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter for cooking; it allows you to control the seasoning while adding richness.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps achieve that beautiful golden crust when searing.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish and balances the butter’s richness beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Start by prepping your ingredients so everything is at hand when you’re ready to cook.

Gather Your Tools: Get your frying pan ready! A heavy skillet works best for even heat distribution. Make sure it’s large enough to hold all your scallops without crowding them.

Season Your Scallops: Pat dry each scallop with paper towels—this helps them sear beautifully! Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

Heat Up Your Fat: In your skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and butter until it shimmers and smells heavenly—about 1-2 minutes should do it.

Add Scallops to Pan: Carefully place each scallop in the skillet without overcrowding; you want space for them to brown nicely. Sear for about 2-3 minutes until they develop a golden crust.

Flip and Finish: Using tongs or a spatula, gently flip each scallop and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they’re opaque throughout but still tender—no one likes rubbery scallops!

Squeeze Lemon Juice: Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the cooked scallops right before serving; this will elevate their flavor profile and add zest!

Serve these crispy pan-seared scallops warm alongside your favorite sides or atop a bed of creamy risotto or fresh salad—it’s an irresistible combination you’re sure to love! Enjoy every delectable bite as if it’s a tiny celebration on your plate.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the scallops in a hot pan for about two minutes per side until golden brown. This ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out seasonings! Try garlic butter, lemon zest, or fresh herbs to personalize your scallops.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover scallops in an airtight container for up to two days. Reheat in a pan over low heat to avoid overcooking.

It was my sister’s birthday when I perfected these crispy pan-seared scallops. Her delighted smile made all the effort worthwhile, proving that good food can create unforgettable memories!

FAQ

What type of scallops should I use for crispy pan-seared scallops?

Use dry sea scallops for better flavor and texture in your dish.

How do I know when my scallops are done cooking?

Scallops should be opaque and firm to touch when fully cooked and ready to serve.

Can I prepare crispy pan-seared scallops ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can prep ingredients early for quicker cooking later on.

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Crispy Pan-Seared Scallops

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 16 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Crispy Pan-Seared Scallops are a gourmet delight that transform any meal into a special occasion. These perfectly seared scallops boast a golden-brown crust and a tender, succulent interior, making them the star of your dinner table. With just a handful of ingredients and quick cooking time, you can impress your guests or treat yourself to an elegant dish that’s bursting with flavor.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb fresh sea scallops
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice

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Instructions

1. Thoroughly pat dry scallops with paper towels; season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. In a heavy skillet over medium-high heat, combine butter and olive oil until shimmering.
3. Place scallops in the skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Sear for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
4. Gently flip scallops and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until opaque and tender.
5. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Seafood

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 scallops (85g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 16g
• Cholesterol: 45mg