Go Back Email Link
–+ servings
Scallops seared with lemons
Print Recipe
4.56 from 18 votes

Perfect Pan Seared Scallops

The secret to perfect sea scallops are quickly searing them in a blazing hot cast iron pan and basting with butter. Dinner is ready in 15 minutes!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time5 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 202kcal
Author: Cyndy Ufkes - The Art of Food and Wine

Equipment

  • Large Heavy bottomed pan

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs jumbo scallops, wet or dry-packed, side muscle removed
  • salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1½ Tbsp olive or vegetable oil
  • 1½ Tbsp butter cut into pieces
  • 4 slices lemon, optional garnish
  • 2 tsp Italian parsley, chopped, optional garnish

Instructions

  • Prepare scallops by removing side muscle. Rinse and pat dry with a paper towel.
    Once dry, sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  • Heat a heavy bottom or cast iron skillet over medium-high and add olive oil.
    Heat until the oil is very hot but not smoking.
  • Carefully add scallops in a single layer and do not crowd.
  • Sear undisturbed for 1½-2 minutes, until golden brown. Scallops should release easily from the pan. If not, let them cook a little longer.
  • Turn each scallop over with metal tongs or spatula.
    Reduce heat to medium and add butter pieces.
  • Using a large spoon baste the scallops with the melted butter and cook for about 60-90 seconds further. The center side of the scallops should be opaque.
  • Remove scallops from the pan and onto plates. The scallops should have a golden crust.
    Add lemon slices to the pan and sear on each side for 30-45 seconds.
  • Add a lemon slice to each plate as a garnish. Drizzle the butter from the pan on top of scallops and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve.

Notes

  • If using frozen scallops be sure they are 100% thawed before using them. 
  • U-10 size scallops are recommended. Don't use bay scallops
  • Be sure to remove the side muscle from the side of the scallops. Gently pull it off and discard it.

Nutrition

Calories: 202kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 21g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 52mg | Sodium: 668mg | Potassium: 352mg | Fiber: 0.03g | Sugar: 0.03g | Vitamin A: 141IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 12mg | Iron: 1mg