Seared Scallops with Lemon and Spinach

Seared Scallops with Lemon and Spinach

📝 Ingredients (Serves 2)

For the Scallops:

• 8–10 large sea scallops (dry-packed preferred)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp butter

• Salt, to taste

• Black pepper, to taste

• ½ tsp paprika (optional)

• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)

For the Lemon Spinach:

• 2 cups fresh spinach

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp butter or olive oil

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 1–2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• Salt & pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh parsley

• Lemon slices

• Chili flakes

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Prep the Scallops

• Pat scallops completely dry using paper towels (this is key for a good sear).

• Season both sides with salt, pepper, and optional paprika/garlic powder.

2️⃣ Sear the Scallops

1. Heat a heavy pan (cast iron works best) on medium-high.

2. Add olive oil and butter.

3. When hot and shimmering, place scallops in the pan (do not overcrowd).

4. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.

5. Remove scallops and set aside.

3️⃣ Make the Lemon Spinach

1. In the same pan, add butter or olive oil.

2. Add garlic and sauté for 20–30 seconds.

3. Add spinach and cook until just wilted (about 1 minute).

4. Add lemon zest and lemon juice.

5. Season with salt and pepper.

4️⃣ Assemble & Serve

• Place spinach on a plate.

• Top with seared scallops.

• Spoon some pan juices over the top.

• Garnish with parsley, chili flakes, or lemon slices.

❓ Q & A

Q: How do I know when scallops are perfectly cooked?

A: They should be golden outside and slightly translucent in the center. Overcooking makes them rubbery.

Q: Can I use frozen scallops?

A: Yes, but thaw them fully and pat them very dry before cooking.

Q: Why didn’t my scallops brown?

A: Possible reasons:

• Pan wasn’t hot enough

• Scallops were wet

• Pan was overcrowded

Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice?

A: Fresh lemon juice is best, but bottled can work in a pinch.

Q: Is this dish healthy?

A: Yes! It’s:

• High in protein

• Low carb

• Rich in iron and vitamins

• Keto-friendly

Q: What can I serve with this?

A: Great sides include:

• Garlic mashed potatoes

• Lemon rice

• Quinoa

• Roasted veggies

• Pasta

Q: Can I add a sauce?

A: Yes! Try:

• Lemon butter sauce

• Garlic cream sauce

• White wine sauce