Simple Seared Scallops Dish

Name: Simple Seared Scallops Dish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 2
Ingredients: 12 large sea scallops; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup white wine; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Clean & Simple Meals

I absolutely love preparing this Simple Seared Scallops Dish whenever I want to impress guests or treat myself to something special. The method is straightforward and yields perfectly golden-brown scallops with a delightful buttery sauce. I’ve found that cooking them just right requires precise timing and attention to the heat, which makes a noticeable difference in the taste and texture. Whether served on a bed of creamy risotto or with a side of seasonal vegetables, this dish is an elegant yet accessible culinary masterpiece that I frequently revisit.

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2026-01-22T13:58:28.202Z

Cooking scallops has been a journey for me, and I remember the first time I attempted this dish. I was nervous, fearing I would overcook them and ruin dinner. Instead, I discovered that using a hot skillet helps achieve that perfect sear, giving the scallops a beautiful caramelized crust.

After a few tries, I learned to add a splash of white wine to the pan once the scallops were cooked. This creates a delightful sauce that elevates the dish. The combination of flavors is incredible and always leaves everyone asking for more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent flavor with a quick cooking time
Elegance of seared scallops made simple
Versatile dish perfect for any occasion

Understanding Scallops

Scallops are known for their delicate texture and sweet flavor, which makes them an exquisite choice for elevating any meal. The key to achieving that perfect sear lies in choosing the right type of scallops. Fresh sea scallops, often labeled as 'dry' scallops, are preferred because they don’t undergo any preservatives, meaning they sear beautifully and retain their natural sweetness. Avoid 'wet' scallops, which are soaked in a sodium solution that can result in a rubbery texture and decreased flavor.

In terms of size, large sea scallops are ideal for this recipe. Their size allows for a golden crust on the outside while maintaining a tender, slightly opaque center when cooked correctly. It's essential to cook them quickly over high heat to achieve a caramelized exterior while keeping the inside juicy—this balance is what makes seared scallops such a coveted dish.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Scallops

One of my essential tips for searing scallops is to ensure they’re completely dry before cooking. After rinsing, pat them thoroughly with paper towels. Moisture on the surface will lead to steaming rather than searing, preventing that beautiful crust from forming. Additionally, resist the temptation to touch or move them too soon; they should naturally release from the pan once they’re properly seared, usually within 2-3 minutes.

Heat control is paramount when cooking scallops. Start with a pre-heated skillet over medium-high heat and wait for the oil to shimmer before adding scallops. This heat allows the Maillard reaction to occur, resulting in that sought-after golden-brown crust. If they’re browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly; if they’re not browning at all, increase the heat. Perfectly cooked scallops should have a deeply golden exterior and a tender, slightly firm center.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients

12 large sea scallops
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup white wine
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Once you have all the ingredients, you’re ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your scallops:

Prepare the Scallops

Rinse the scallops under cold water and thoroughly pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Heat the Skillet

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once it's shimmering, it's ready for the scallops.

Sear the Scallops

Place the scallops in the skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they develop a golden crust, then carefully flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Finish with Sauce

Reduce heat to medium, add butter and garlic, and sauté for about 1 minute. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to create a sauce.

Serve

Plate the scallops and drizzle the sauce over them. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your exquisite scallops with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

Make sure the scallops are very dry before searing them to achieve that golden crust. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan
cook in batches if necessary.

Sauce Variations

The simple buttery garlic sauce in this recipe can be easily customized to suit your palate. For a zesty twist, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dash of lemon zest after simmering the white wine. This will enhance the flavor profile while complementing the sweetness of the scallops beautifully. Alternatively, for a deep, earthy note, add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce right before serving.

If you want to make the sauce richer, you can substitute the white wine with a splash of champagne or a dry vermouth, which can add complexity. Consider using shallots instead of garlic for a milder, sweeter base. All these variations can turn this already indulgent dish into a show-stopping masterpiece.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation of your seared scallops, consider plating them over a bed of creamy risotto or alongside seasonal sautéed vegetables. The creaminess of the risotto complements the scallops beautifully, while the crunch of fresh vegetables adds a nice contrast. You can also serve them on a nest of wilted greens or with a grain salad for a hearty touch.

As for garnishes, don't shy away from creativity! Besides fresh parsley, you can top them with microgreens for a pop of color or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor. These finishing touches not only enhance the visual appeal of the dish but also contribute to its overall taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

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

→ What can I serve with scallops?

Scallops pair well with risotto, pasta, or seasonal vegetables.

→ How do I know when scallops are cooked?

Scallops should be opaque and slightly firm to the touch when fully cooked, typically taking about 4-6 minutes total.

→ Can I substitute the white wine?

Yes, you can use chicken broth or omit it altogether for a non-alcoholic version.