Easy Scallops Dinner

Name: Easy Scallops Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 12 large sea scallops; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 2 garlic cloves, minced; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I love making this Easy Scallops Dinner when I want a meal that feels fancy but is simple to prepare. The beauty of this dish lies in the delicate balance of flavors, combining perfectly seared scallops with a light sauce that enhances their natural sweetness. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, it’s a dish that impresses while being incredibly easy to whip up. Perfect for a date night or a cozy dinner at home, I'll share my secrets for achieving perfectly cooked scallops every time.

Created by

Clara Jennings

Last updated on 2026-01-20T01:16:06.879Z

When I first tried cooking scallops, I was intimidated by their delicate nature. But over time, I've learned that a few simple techniques can bring out the best in them. I often use a hot cast-iron skillet, as it gets the perfect sear while keeping the inside tender. This method works wonders and is key to making mouthwatering scallops that aren't overcooked.

One of the most important tips I've gathered is to dry the scallops with a paper towel before cooking. This step ensures that they brown beautifully rather than steam. Pair that with a hint of garlic and a splash of lemon, and you have a dish that feels like a restaurant experience at home.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy preparation for busy evenings
Deliciously seared scallops that are tender and flavorful
A light, tangy sauce that elevates the dish without overpowering

      

The Art of Searing Scallops

Searing scallops to perfection is key to this recipe's success. Begin by ensuring the scallops are thoroughly dry. Excess moisture can prevent them from developing that beautiful golden crust. To achieve optimal browning, allow your skillet to heat until it’s just about smoking. When you place the scallops down, listen for that satisfying sizzle—this indicates they've made good contact with the pan, which is essential for developing flavor.

Cook the scallops without moving them for the first 2-3 minutes. This undisturbed time allows for the formation of a crust. When you flip them, the other side should also cook for about 2-3 minutes or until they are opaque throughout and firm to the touch. Under-cooked scallops can feel rubbery, so it's crucial to get the cooking time right.

Crafting the Perfect Sauce

The sauce for this dish is incredibly simple yet packs a transformative punch. Using the same skillet preserves all the lovely brown bits left from searing the scallops, which enriches the sauce. When melting the butter, watch for it to turn frothy before adding the minced garlic. Cooking the garlic until fragrant is essential—aim for about one minute—since this brings out its natural sweetness without letting it burn, which could introduce bitterness.

Lemon juice is a critical ingredient here, providing acidity to balance the richness of the butter. For a twist, consider experimenting with citrus alternatives like lime or even a splash of white wine. This gives the sauce a unique depth and can complement the natural sweetness of the scallops beautifully. Just ensure to let the alcohol cook off slightly if you add wine.

Presentation and Serving Suggestions

Serving your scallops attractively not only makes the dish look enticing but also enhances the dining experience. I recommend plating the scallops on a warm plate to keep them at the perfect temperature. Drizzling the sauce over the scallops just before serving ensures they remain moist and flavorful. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness—this little detail elevates the dish from simple to presentation-worthy.

This dish pairs elegantly with a variety of sides. Consider serving over a bed of creamy risotto or alongside roasted asparagus for a well-rounded meal. If you're feeling adventurous, a quinoa salad can add a pleasing texture and nutty flavor that complements the scallops. Don't forget to squeeze extra lemon over the top right before serving for a bright finish!

Ingredients

For the Scallops

12 large sea scallops
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper.

Sear the Scallops

Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the scallops and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, then add the lemon juice. Stir well.

Combine and Serve

Return the scallops to the skillet, coating them in the sauce. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Pro Tips

Remember, scallops cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking. The internal temperature should reach 130°F for perfectly tender scallops.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover scallops, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that scallops are best enjoyed fresh, so reheating should be done cautiously to avoid overcooking. Gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or a little more butter to help retain moisture.

For those who love to meal prep, consider making the sauce in advance and storing it separately. When ready to serve, simply reheat it and sauté freshly seared scallops instead. This allows you to maintain the quality of the scallops while saving precious time on busy weeknights.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a lighter option or a dietary swap, try using coconut oil instead of butter. It brings a subtle sweetness that can enhance the dish while still providing a nice sear. For those avoiding butter altogether, vegan margarine works well too—just make sure it can handle the heat without burning.

In terms of scallops, bay scallops can be used as a more budget-friendly option. While they won’t provide the same impressive presentation, they can work beautifully in a sauté or pasta dish where they're mixed with other ingredients. Adjust the cooking time as needed, since bay scallops are smaller and will cook much faster.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What side dishes go well with scallops?

Scallops pair beautifully with light salads, rice, or a vegetable medley.

→ How can I tell when scallops are done?

Scallops should be opaque and firm to the touch when fully cooked but still tender.

→ Can I add other flavors to the sauce?

Absolutely! Consider adding a splash of white wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.