Easy Scallops Dinner

Name: Easy Scallops Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 12 large sea scallops; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lemon; Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I’ve always loved scallops for their delicate sweetness and luxurious feel, and this Easy Scallops Dinner is my go-to recipe for a quick yet impressive meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a gourmet dish ready in about 20 minutes. The scallops sear beautifully, developing a golden crust while remaining tender inside. This dish pairs wonderfully with a light lemon butter sauce and seasonal vegetables, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-20T00:34:13.068Z

When I first tried cooking scallops, I was surprisingly intimidated by their reputation, but I soon discovered that they are one of the easiest proteins to prepare. The key is to let them sear undisturbed in a hot pan, creating that gorgeous caramelization without overcooking. I usually serve mine with a quick lemon butter sauce which elevates the dish effortlessly and adds a refreshing zing.

One trick I've learned is to pat the scallops dry thoroughly before cooking. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden crust. If you're using frozen scallops, make sure to thaw them completely and dry them well. It makes all the difference in presentation and taste!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and effortless preparation that fits any weeknight schedule
Rich, buttery flavor enhanced by fresh lemon and herbs
Impressive presentation makes it perfect for date nights or special occasions

      

Mastering the Sear

To achieve the perfect sear on your scallops, start by ensuring they're completely dry. This helps in forming that coveted golden crust. I recommend using a cast-iron skillet as it retains heat exceptionally well, allowing for even cooking. Heat the oil until it’s shimmering but not smoking; if you see faint wisps of smoke, reduce the heat slightly. A high heat is essential to create that caramelization without overcooking the delicate seafood inside.

It's crucial not to overcrowd the pan. If your skillet is too crowded, the scallops will steam rather than sear. Work in batches if necessary. You can tell they are ready to flip when they release easily from the skillet and show a beautiful brown crust. If they stick, give them another 30 seconds before trying again. Note that perfectly seared scallops should feel firm to the touch but still have a slight give.

Crafting the Lemon Butter Sauce

The lemon butter sauce is a game-changer for your scallops. Unsalted butter is essential here, as it allows you to control the saltiness of your dish. Start by letting the butter melt gently to avoid burning. Incorporating minced garlic adds a fragrant quality, but be cautious—garlic can turn bitter if overcooked. Sauté it just until fragrant, about 30 seconds, then immediately deglaze the pan with fresh lemon juice, which not only brightens the flavor but also lifts any fond stuck to the pan, enhancing the sauce's depth.

For those who enjoy variations, you can easily infuse additional flavors into the sauce. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick, while a splash of white wine added alongside the lemon juice will enhance the sauce’s complexity. Just remember to let it cook out for a minute or two to blend the flavors before returning the scallops to the pan. You want a glossy sauce that clings lightly to the scallops.

Serving Suggestions

While this scallops dinner shines on its own, it pairs excellently with sides that soothe and complement its richness. Consider serving it over a bed of lightly dressed arugula or beside a fresh cucumber salad to provide a crisp contrast. For a heartier accompaniment, creamy risotto or garlic mashed potatoes lend an inviting creaminess that balances the dish beautifully. Presentation is vital—arranging scallops in a fan shape on the plate and drizzling the sauce strategically elevates the overall dining experience.

For meal prep lovers, this dish is simple to adapt. You can prepare the scallops ahead but be mindful to store them correctly in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Reheating scallops can be tricky, as overcooking can turn them rubbery. If reheating, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat just until warmed through. Pair with newly made lemon sauce for best results, keeping the dish fresh and vibrant on any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Scallops

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

For the Lemon Butter Sauce

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
Chopped fresh parsley 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, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add scallops in a single layer, making sure they are not touching. Sear for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

Remove scallops from the pan and set aside. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add butter, and sauté garlic for about 30 seconds. Stir in lemon juice and return scallops to the pan, cooking for 1 minute to coat.

Serve

Transfer scallops to a serving plate, drizzle with the sauce, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

For best results, ensure your scallops are evenly sized for uniform cooking. You can also add a touch of white wine to the butter sauce for extra flavor.

Ingredient Insights

Scallops are inherently sweet and pair wonderfully with bright, acidic flavors, making lemon a perfect companion. Choosing large sea scallops over small bay scallops is recommended due to their meatiness and ability to hold up during cooking. Always look for scallops that are slightly opaque; this indicates freshness. If substituting scallops, shrimp is a great alternative, but remember that shrimp cooks faster, so adjust your timing accordingly.

Fresh herbs are not just for garnish; they elevate the dish significantly. Using freshly chopped parsley for garnish adds a pop of color and freshness that rounds out the flavors. If parsley isn’t available, feel free to experiment with fresh basil or chives. They will still provide that burst of herbaceous freshness your dish needs.

Make-Ahead Tips

While scallops are best enjoyed fresh, you can prep some components ahead of time to streamline your cooking process. The lemon butter sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just remember to reheat it gently, as aggressive heat can separate the butter. This way, when it’s time to serve, you only need to focus on searing your scallops to perfection.

If you plan to entertain, consider preparing a double batch of scallops. They freeze remarkably well, though do be aware that freezing can alter texture slightly. For best results, freeze scallops individually on a baking sheet before transferring them to a zip-bag. When ready to use, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and pat them dry before cooking to ensure they sear well.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator and dry them thoroughly before cooking.

→ What's the best way to tell when scallops are done?

Scallops are done when they turn opaque and have a golden crust. They should feel firm to the touch but still slightly springy.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Seasonal vegetables like asparagus or spinach can be sautéed in the same pan after cooking the scallops.

→ What can I substitute for the butter?

You can use olive oil or a vegan butter alternative if you want to keep it dairy-free.