🦐 Crispy Seared Scallops + Garlic Herb Sauce
A restaurant-quality dish you can make at home! These scallops are beautifully golden and crisp on the outside, tender and buttery inside, finished with a rich, aromatic garlic herb sauce. Perfect for a quick dinner or an elegant meal.
📝 Ingredients
For the scallops:
- 12–16 large sea scallops (patted very dry)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
For the garlic herb sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (optional)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Prep the scallops
- Remove side muscle if attached.
- Pat scallops very dry (this is key for crispiness).
- Season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the scallops
- Heat olive oil in a pan over high heat until hot.
- Place scallops in pan (don’t overcrowd).
- Sear for 2–3 minutes without moving until golden crust forms.
- Flip, add 1 tbsp butter, and cook another 1–2 minutes.
- Remove and set aside.
3. Make garlic herb sauce
- In the same pan, melt butter on medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Stir in lemon juice, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine & serve
- Return scallops to the pan briefly or drizzle sauce over them.
- Serve immediately.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
- Over creamy mashed potatoes
- With rice or quinoa
- Alongside sautéed vegetables or salad
❓ Q&A
Q1: Why aren’t my scallops crispy?
Most likely they had too much moisture or the pan wasn’t hot enough.
Q2: Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, just thaw completely and dry them well before cooking.
Q3: How do I know they’re done?
They should be opaque in the center and slightly firm—don’t overcook!
Q4: Can I add cream to the sauce?
Yes, for a richer version, add a splash of cream after the garlic step.
Q5: What oil is best for searing?
Use high smoke point oils like avocado oil or light olive oil.