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Perfectly Browned Scallops with Lemon

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Pixicook editorial team

Delicious sea scallops seared to perfection with a golden crust, served with a fresh squeeze of lemon.

Ingredients for Perfectly Browned Scallops with Lemon

units in
USchevron
serves
4 peoplechevron

Sea Scallops, tendons removed

0 lb

Salt

to taste

Black Pepper, freshly ground

to taste

Vegetable Oil

tablespoons

Unsalted Butter

tablespoons

Lemon Wedges, for serving

each

How to Make Perfectly Browned Scallops with Lemon

1. Towel Dry Scallops

Spread scallops on a rimmed baking sheet topped with a clean dish towel. Cover with another towel and gently press to blot moisture. Leave at room temperature for 10 minutes to absorb excess liquid.

2. Season

Season both sides of the scallops with salt and pepper.

3. Sear in Batches

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over high heat until smoking. Place half the scallops flat side down in the skillet, cook without moving for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes until a golden crust forms.

4. Butter Baste

Add 1 tablespoon butter to the skillet. Flip scallops with tongs, baste with melted butter by tilting the skillet, and cook until firm and opaque (115 degrees), about 30 to 90 seconds. Remove smaller scallops as they finish cooking. Transfer to a plate and cover loosely with foil.

5. Repeat

Clean skillet with paper towels. Repeat the process with the remaining oil, scallops, and butter.

Variations

Asian-Style Scallops

Season the scallops with a mix of soy sauce, minced ginger, and a touch of sesame oil. Cook as per the core recipe and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Citrus Scallops

Create a citrus marinade with orange juice, lemon zest, and a hint of honey. Marinate the scallops briefly, then sear and serve with a citrus salsa made from chopped citrus fruits, jalapeños, and cilantro.

Herb-Infused Scallops

Before cooking, marinate the scallops for 30 minutes in olive oil with minced garlic, chopped herbs (like parsley, thyme, or basil), and a squeeze of lemon. Cook as per the core recipe.

Scallops with Cream Sauce

After searing scallops, deglaze the pan with white wine, then add cream and a pinch of tarragon, reducing it to a thick sauce to spoon over the scallops.

Mediterranean Scallops

Top cooked scallops with a mixture of chopped olives, tomatoes, capers, and a splash of balsamic vinegar for a Mediterranean twist.

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