Perfectly Pan-Seared Scallops: A Quick & Flavorful Delight!
Hello! I am back with another craving this week. I know that it’s been a while since I’ve posted. I’ve been figuring out some things in my personal life, but I’m happy to share this scrumptious recipe with you all. I pan-seared some scallops tonight, which turned out perfectly with only a few ingredients.
Scallops are like the fancy little gems of the sea—sweet, tender, and oh-so-satisfying when cooked just right. If you’ve ever thought restaurant-quality scallops were out of reach, think again! With this simple yet flavorful pan-seared scallops recipe, you’ll be whipping up an impressive seafood dish in under 10 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Pan-Seared Scallops Recipe
- Quick & Easy — in minutes! Perfect for weeknights or date nights.
- Flavor-Packed—A touch of chili powder, garlic, pepper, and lemon elevates these scallops to the next level.
- Versatile — with pasta, roasted veggies, or even a fresh salad.
The Secret to Perfectly Seared Scallops
The key to getting that beautiful golden-brown crust? A hot pan and dry scallops! Before searing, make sure to pat them dry—moisture is the enemy of that crispy sear. Then, let the pan do the magic!
Pan-Seared Scallops Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb raw scallops
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1½ tbsp olive oil
- ½ squeezed lemon juice
Instructions
- Clean and rinse the scallops, then pat them dry.
- Season the scallops with chili powder, black pepper, garlic powder, and sea salt in a mixing bowl.
- Heat a medium-sized pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tbsp of olive oil.
- Once the pan is hot, add the scallops and sear for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the scallops for added flavor.
- Serve immediately with your favorite vegetables, pasta, or side dish. Enjoy!
Pairing Options?
These scallops are versatile and pair well with just about anything! Try them with:
- Sun-dried Tomato & Spinach Pasta
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Roasted Broccolini
- Fresh Salad
- White or Brown Rice
- Squash & Zucchini
Tonight, I paired my scallops with sun-dried tomato and spinach pasta, which is my favorite dish to cook. It was so delish! I recommend pairing scallops with a rich pasta of your choice.
Final Thoughts
Who knew an elegant seafood dish could be this easy? Whether you’re impressing guests or just treating yourself, this pan-seared scallop recipe is a must-try. Give it a shot and let me know how it turns out!
What’s your favorite way to enjoy scallops? Let me know in the comments below!