Description
Crispy on the outside, buttery and tender on the inside—these Easy Pan Seared Scallops are the perfect quick dinner or impressive appetizer. In under 15 minutes, you’ll have a golden, restaurant-quality dish bursting with garlic, lemon, and herb flavors. Ideal for anyone craving a fancy seafood treat without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for quick dinner ideas, a healthy seafood recipe, or just need a fresh addition to your meal rotation, these scallops fit the bill.
Ingredients
1 pound sea scallops
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Pat the scallops completely dry using paper towels.
2. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
4. Place scallops in the pan without crowding. Sear for 2–3 minutes until golden.
5. Flip and sear the other side for 1–2 more minutes.
6. Reduce heat to medium and add butter and garlic.
7. Spoon garlic butter over the scallops for a quick baste.
8. Turn off the heat and add lemon juice, zest, and parsley.
9. Transfer to a plate and serve immediately.
Notes
Use dry sea scallops for best sear and flavor.
Avoid overcrowding the pan or scallops will steam instead of sear.
Add garlic only after searing to avoid burning it.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 pound scallops
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: easy dinner, seafood, scallops, quick dinner, healthy recipe