![- 1 pound large sea scallops, thoroughly patted dry - 2 tablespoons high-quality olive oil - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter - 1 garlic clove, finely minced - 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped - Zest of 1 medium lemon - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish) - Lemon wedges (for serving) - Heavy skillet or pan - Tongs - Paper towels To make crispy pan-seared scallops, you need fresh ingredients. Start with large sea scallops. These offer the best taste and texture. Make sure to pat them dry. Moisture will make it hard to get that perfect sear. Next, gather your oils and butter. High-quality olive oil will add flavor. Unsalted butter helps create a rich taste and a nice color. You will also need garlic for some depth. Fresh thyme adds a lovely aroma, while lemon zest brightens the dish. For seasoning, salt and black pepper are key. They bring out the natural sweetness of the scallops. Finally, fresh parsley is a great garnish. It adds color and a hint of freshness. Don't forget lemon wedges for serving. They give a nice tang when squeezed over the scallops. Gathering the right tools is just as important. A heavy skillet or pan helps achieve that great sear. Tongs make flipping the scallops easy and safe. Lastly, paper towels are essential for drying and draining excess oil. With these ingredients and tools, you are on your way to making delicious crispy pan-seared scallops. Check the Full Recipe for all the steps! - Ensure scallops are dried thoroughly. - Season scallops with salt and pepper. To start, the first step is to dry your scallops well. Any moisture will stop them from getting that nice, crispy crust. Use a paper towel to pat each scallop dry. This simple step is key! After drying, season both sides of the scallops with salt and pepper. This brings out the natural flavor of the scallops. - Heat olive oil in skillet. - Sear scallops undisturbed for 2-3 minutes. - Flip scallops and add butter, garlic, and thyme. Next, grab a heavy skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You want it to shimmer but not smoke. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Once the oil is ready, carefully place the scallops in the pan. Don't overcrowd them; give each scallop space. Let them sear undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown crust. After the first side is brown, flip the scallops using tongs. Now, add the unsalted butter, minced garlic, and chopped thyme to the pan. These ingredients will add rich flavor and aroma. Cook for another 2 minutes, spooning the melted butter over the scallops. This basting makes them even more delicious! - Baste scallops with butter. - Garnish and serve immediately. When the scallops are done, take them out of the skillet. Place them on a paper towel to absorb some oil. Just before serving, sprinkle fresh lemon zest over the scallops. This adds a bright flavor. Don’t forget to garnish with finely chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve them right away with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing. For the full recipe, be sure to check out the complete details! To get the best sear on your scallops, start with drying them well. Moisture can ruin that nice crust. I always pat them dry with paper towels. This step is key for crispy scallops. Next, heat your pan to just the right temperature. You want it hot enough to shimmer but not smoke. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. You can elevate the flavor of your scallops with different seasonings. Besides salt and pepper, try adding paprika or lemon zest. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can also work wonders. Always use high-quality ingredients. Fresh scallops and good olive oil make a big difference in taste. For plating, arrange the scallops neatly on a plate. A serving platter makes it look fancy. You can sprinkle some extra lemon zest on top for color. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley. It adds a pop of green and freshness to the dish. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a final touch. For more detailed instructions, check out the Full Recipe. {{image_4}} If you want to shake things up, try adding some spice. A sprinkle of chili flakes can turn your scallops into a spicy delight. This simple change adds warmth without overpowering the dish. For those who love fresh flavors, adding zest from an orange can create a citrus twist. The bright notes of orange will brighten up your plate and balance the richness of the scallops. Pair your crispy pan-seared scallops with a creamy risotto or a fresh salad. A side of risotto adds comfort, while a salad brings a crisp element. Both sides complement the scallops beautifully. For wine lovers, a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc works wonders. Its bright acidity cuts through the richness of the scallops, enhancing the meal. If you want to try something different, consider broiling or grilling your scallops. Both methods bring out unique flavors and give a nice char. Baking is another option for a healthier dish. It allows the scallops to cook gently while keeping them moist. Each method offers a new way to enjoy this delicious seafood. Check out the Full Recipe for all the details! - Storing leftover cooked scallops: Place your cooked scallops in an airtight container. Refrigerate them for up to two days. This keeps them fresh and tasty. - Storing raw scallops: If you have raw scallops, keep them in their original packaging. If opened, place them in a covered bowl. Store them in the coldest part of your fridge. Use raw scallops within 24 hours for the best flavor. - Best methods for reheating scallops: The stove works best for reheating scallops. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil or butter. Add the scallops and warm them for about one minute on each side. - How to maintain texture: Avoid microwaving scallops. It can make them rubbery. Instead, use low heat and watch them closely. This way, they stay tender and juicy. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. How long to cook scallops? Cook scallops for about 2-3 minutes on each side. The goal is a golden crust. Thin scallops cook faster, while thicker ones may need a bit more time. Can I use frozen scallops? Yes, you can use frozen scallops. Just make sure to thaw them completely. Pat them dry well before cooking. This helps achieve that crispy sear. How to tell if scallops are done? Perfectly cooked scallops should be opaque and firm to the touch. They should have a nice golden-brown crust. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? This recipe is best made fresh. However, you can prepare the ingredients in advance. Season the scallops and chop your garlic and herbs ahead of time. What can I substitute for olive oil? You can use avocado oil or canola oil instead of olive oil. Both have high smoke points and work well for searing. Are there alternatives for scallops? Yes, you can use shrimp or firm fish like swordfish. Both options will provide a similar texture and taste in your dish. For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above. This guide covered all you need to make perfect scallops. We discussed key ingredients, the right tools, and step-by-step cooking instructions. I shared tips for achieving the best flavor and presentation. You can even try different variations and learn how to store leftovers. Now, with these insights, you can create a delicious scallop dish at home. Enjoy the cooking process and impress everyone at your table!](https://eataroundit.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/aa970b77-d9bf-47fb-9b8c-d1545bad80c8-250x250.webp)
Crispy Pan-Seared Scallops
Craving a delicious seafood dish? This crispy pan-seared scallops recipe is perfect for you! With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you'll be able to create restaurant-quality scallops right at home. Elevate your cooking with this impressive and flavorful dish that's sure to wow your family and friends. Ready to dive in? Explore the recipe now and start your culinary adventure!