Easy Scallops Dinner

Name: Easy Scallops Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 8 large sea scallops; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I love the simplicity and elegance of preparing scallops for a dinner that feels special yet is effortless. Cooking scallops has become one of my go-to meals, combining quick prep time with amazing flavors. I find that searing them to get a perfect golden crust while keeping the centers tender is a method I truly enjoy. Pairing them with a light lemon butter sauce elevates the dish and impresses everyone at the table. With just a few ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes!

Created by

Jocelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-20T03:19:11.591Z

When I first tried making scallops at home, I was surprised at how simple it was to achieve that delicious restaurant-like flavor. The key is to start with dry scallops and let them sear without crowding the pan. This allows the natural sweetness to shine through. After experimenting with different sauces, I found that a touch of lemon and butter brings everything together beautifully.

One evening, I decided to add a bit of garlic to the butter sauce, and the results were extraordinary! The combination of juicy scallops, aromatic garlic, and bright lemon transformed our dinner into a truly memorable experience.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy preparation that anyone can master
Delicate scallops with a beautiful sear and rich flavor
Light and flavorful sauce complements the scallops perfectly

      

Perfectly Searing Scallops

Achieving the perfect sear on scallops is crucial for both flavor and texture. Start by ensuring your scallops are patted dry thoroughly, as any moisture can steam them instead of searing them. This step is vital—moisture leads to a lack of that desired golden crust. When you add them to a hot skillet, listen for that immediate sizzle, which indicates a good sear is forming.

The ideal cooking time for scallops is around 2-3 minutes per side over medium-high heat. They should develop a deep golden color while remaining tender inside. Overcooking can lead to rubbery scallops; if they start to feel firm to the touch, it's time to take them off the heat.

Crafting the Lemon Butter Sauce

The lemon butter sauce not only enhances the scallops but also adds a rich, tangy flavor that brings freshness to the dish. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt levels in your sauce, letting the natural sweetness of the scallops shine through. As you melt the butter, keep the heat moderate to prevent it from browning too quickly and turning bitter.

Don’t skip the garlic—it infuses the sauce with aromatic depth. Sautéing it for just about a minute will release its fragrance without burning it. When you add the lemon juice and zest, be ready for a bright, zesty flavor that brightens the dish. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your scallops dinner, consider pairing it with a light side that complements the flavors. Dishes like a simple arugula salad with a vinaigrette or sautéed asparagus work beautifully alongside the scallops. The refreshing sides balance the richness of the lemon butter sauce and add texture to your meal.

If you have leftovers, scallops can be slightly tricky to store, as they are best enjoyed fresh. However, if you do have any, ensure they are stored in an airtight container and consumed within 24 hours. Reheat gently in a microwave or a pan over low heat to avoid toughening them.

Ingredients

For the Scallops

8 large sea scallops
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Lemon Butter Sauce

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Scallops

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

Sear the Scallops

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

Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, mixing well.

Serve

Return the scallops to the skillet and toss gently in the lemon butter sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

For perfectly cooked scallops, avoid overcrowding the pan. Give them space to sear properly for that delicious crust.

Ingredient Insights

Sea scallops are preferable for this dish due to their large size and sweetness. When selecting scallops, look for those that are firm and slightly opaque. Avoid any that look dry or overly slimy, as this could indicate they are not fresh. If sea scallops are unavailable, you can substitute with bay scallops, but be mindful that cooking time will decrease significantly—just 1-2 minutes per side is often sufficient.

Using fresh lemon juice is essential for an impactful flavor; the zest adds an aromatic quality that brightens the entire dish. If fresh lemons are out of season, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, but the zest is irreplaceable in achieving that fresh, citrusy punch.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your scallops don’t develop a nice sear, check the heat level of your skillet. If it’s not hot enough, the scallops will release moisture and end up steaming rather than browning. Adding too many scallops at once can also lower the temperature of the pan, so consider cooking in batches if necessary.

When reheating scallops, doing so on too high a heat can toughen them. I recommend adding a splash of water or broth to the pan while reheating on low heat to help keep them moist. You can also try adding more butter and a squeeze of lemon to reinvigorate their flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

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

→ What sides pair well with scallops?

Roasted vegetables, risotto, or a simple salad are great options.

→ How do I know when scallops are done?

They should be opaque in the center and have a golden crust on the outside.

→ Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

It's best to make the sauce fresh, but you can prep the garlic and lemon ahead.