Are you a seafood lover looking for some inspiration to take your scallop dishes to the next level? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be diving into 18 mouthwatering scallop recipes that showcase the perfect sear. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and simple or bold and adventurous, we’ve got you covered.
From creamy sauces to tangy marinades, these recipes offer a world of flavor options for your next dinner party or special occasion. And with their tender, buttery texture, it’s no wonder scallops have become a staple on many a restaurant menu. So why not try your hand at making them at home? With our collection of 18 crispy scallop recipes, you’ll be well on your way to becoming the next big thing in seafood cuisine.
Stay tuned for some seriously delicious ideas that will leave your taste buds singing!
Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this decadent and flavorful recipe, featuring succulent seared scallops smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper.
3. Add the butter to the preheated pan and let it melt. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
5. If using white wine, add it to the pan after searing the scallops and simmer for 1-2 minutes, until reduced slightly.
6. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes total.
Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Caper Sauce
This recipe combines the sweetness of scallops with the brightness of lemon and the tanginess of capers, creating a dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels.
3. Add olive oil and butter to the skillet; sauté garlic until fragrant (30 seconds).
4. Add the scallops; cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Flip the scallops and add lemon juice, white wine (if using), mustard, and capers.
6. Simmer the sauce for 1 minute, stirring occasionally.
7. Serve the scallops immediately, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Garnish with parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Seared Scallops with Brown Butter and Sage
Seared Scallops with Brown Butter and Sage Recipe
This elegant dish showcases the tender sweetness of scallops paired with the nutty richness of brown butter and the earthy aroma of sage. It’s a perfect combination for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons fresh sage leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add scallops and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Remove from heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes or until it turns into a rich, nutty brown color.
5. Stir in chopped sage leaves.
6. Serve seared scallops with brown butter and sage sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Seared Scallops with Creamy Parmesan Risotto
Elevate your dinner game with this decadent and flavorful recipe that combines the tender sweetness of seared scallops with a rich and creamy risotto.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup Arborio rice
– 3 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat scallops dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear scallops for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown. Transfer to a plate.
4. In the same skillet, add white wine (if using) and cook until reduced by half.
5. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
6. Gradually add warmed chicken broth, stirring constantly, and cooking until risotto is creamy and tender.
7. Remove from heat. Stir in butter and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve scallops atop risotto and garnish with chopped parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Seared Scallops with Mango Avocado Salsa
Savor the sweet combination of succulent scallops and a tangy mango avocado salsa, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Pat scallops dry with paper towels; season with salt and pepper.
3. Add olive oil to the skillet; sear scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine mango, avocado, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice in a bowl.
5. Serve scallops with mango avocado salsa spooned over top; garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Seared Scallops with White Wine Reduction
A classic seafood dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. This recipe yields succulent scallops with a rich and flavorful white wine reduction.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the butter and cook until melted.
4. Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove from heat.
5. In a small saucepan, combine white wine, chicken broth, and garlic. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced by half.
6. Serve the scallops with the white wine reduction spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Seared Scallops with Herb Butter and Crispy Prosciutto
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive dish, featuring succulent scallops paired with a flavorful herb butter and crispy prosciutto.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– Fresh lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, parsley, chives, and garlic.
3. Season scallops with salt and pepper.
4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add scallops and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, bake prosciutto slices in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy.
6. Serve scallops with herb butter and crispy prosciutto on top. Garnish with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Seared Scallops with Truffle Oil and Mushrooms
Elevate your dining experience with this decadent dish, featuring succulent scallops seared to perfection and infused with the earthy essence of truffle oil. Paired with sautéed mushrooms, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons truffle oil
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Pat scallops dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Add butter to the preheated skillet. Once melted, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add mushrooms to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add truffle oil to the skillet and stir to combine with mushrooms.
6. Sear scallops in the skillet for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Serve scallops atop mushrooms and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Seared Scallops with Spicy Chili Lime Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful recipe that combines the tender sweetness of scallops with a bold and spicy kick. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
– Chili lime sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Pat scallops dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Add olive oil to the skillet and sear scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
4. Remove scallops from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium. Add chili flakes, garlic, and lime juice to the skillet. Stir for 1 minute.
6. Pour in chili lime sauce (if using). Simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Serve seared scallops with spicy chili lime sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Seared Scallops with Roasted Garlic Aioli
This recipe combines the sweetness of scallops with the pungency of roasted garlic, all tied together with a creamy aioli. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 4 heads of garlic
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the top off each head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil.
3. Roast garlic for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
4. Sear scallops in a hot skillet with a small amount of oil for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. In a bowl, mix roasted garlic with mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve scallops with roasted garlic aioli spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Seared Scallops with Bacon and Pea Puree
A rich and savory dish that combines the sweetness of scallops with the smokiness of bacon and the freshness of peas.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Rinse the scallops and pat dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Add the butter to the same skillet used for the bacon. Once melted, add the scallops and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, puree the peas in a blender or food processor with a splash of white wine (if using).
6. To serve, place the seared scallops on a plate, top with crispy bacon, and spoon the pea puree alongside.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Seared Scallops with Citrus Beurre Blanc
Elevate your dinner party with this elegant and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of scallops with the brightness of citrus. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add scallops and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Transfer to the oven and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, make the beurre blanc: combine white wine, heavy cream, orange juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until reduced by half.
5. Serve scallops with the citrus beurre blanc spooned over top. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Seared Scallops with Honey Glaze and Pistachios
Elevate your seafood game with this sweet and savory dish, featuring seared scallops smothered in a honey glaze and crunchy pistachios.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the scallops and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Brush the glaze over the seared scallops and sprinkle with pistachios.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Seared Scallops with Coconut Curry Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the tender sweetness of scallops with the warmth of coconut curry.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add coconut milk, curry powder, and cumin; stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer sauce for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Season scallops with salt and pepper. Add to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side or until cooked through.
7. Serve scallops with coconut curry sauce spooned over top; garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Seared Scallops with Balsamic Fig Reduction
Elevate your seafood game with this sweet and savory dish featuring succulent scallops seared to perfection and served with a rich balsamic fig reduction.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup fig jam
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Rinse scallops under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Add olive oil to the preheated pan and sear scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, until they reach an internal temperature of 120°F (49°C).
4. While scallops cook, combine balsamic vinegar and fig jam in a small saucepan over low heat. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the reduction thickens slightly.
5. Serve seared scallops with the warm balsamic fig reduction spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Seared Scallops with Chimichurri Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe that combines succulent scallops with a tangy Argentinean-inspired chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh parsley leaves and stems
– 1 cup fresh oregano leaves
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse scallops under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine garlic, parsley, oregano, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth to make chimichurri sauce.
5. Serve seared scallops with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Seared Scallops with Saffron Cream Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this decadent and flavorful dish, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Pat scallops dry with paper towels; season with salt and pepper.
3. Add butter to the skillet; sear scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine saffron-infused water, heavy cream, garlic, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Reduce cream sauce by half; stir in chopped parsley (if using).
6. Serve scallops with the Saffron Cream Sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time:
– Scallops: 4-6 minutes
– Saffron Cream Sauce: 10-12 minutes
Seared Scallops with Crispy Shallots and Arugula
This elegant yet effortless recipe showcases the tender sweetness of scallops paired with the crunch of crispy shallots and peppery arugula. Perfect for a quick dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced shallots
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season scallops with salt and pepper.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
4. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add sliced shallots and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
5. Toss arugula leaves with a pinch of salt. Divide among plates.
6. Top arugula with seared scallops and crispy shallots. Serve with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your seafood game with these 18 crispy scallops recipes, seared to perfection! From classic combinations like garlic butter sauce and lemon caper sauce, to more adventurous pairings like mango avocado salsa and truffle oil and mushrooms, there’s something for every taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive special occasion dish, these recipes are sure to impress.
