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 scallops; 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon of olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I love a meal that feels luxurious without the fuss, and this Easy Scallops Dinner ticks all the boxes. In just 20 minutes, I can take succulent scallops from the pan to the table, impressing my guests with minimal effort. The simplicity of this dish lets the flavor of the sea shine through, complemented by a light herb and butter sauce that makes everything come together beautifully. If you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a romantic date night meal, you can't go wrong with this recipe!

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-20T01:10:15.573Z

When I first stumbled upon scallops, I was intimidated but intrigued. Cooking them seemed so simple yet elegant, and once I tried this recipe, I was hooked! I learned that overcooking is the real enemy; just a quick sear provides the perfect buttery texture. Pairing them with a splash of lemon elevates the natural sweetness and complements the dish.

Through experimentation, I discovered that using a hot pan ensures a perfect golden crust, while knowing when to flip them is key—when they release easily from the pan, they are ready. This dish is not only quick but also elevates any weeknight dinner into something special!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy preparation in just 20 minutes
Rich buttery flavor with a hint of garlic and lemon
Impressive presentation that’s perfect for entertaining

      

Perfectly Searing Scallops

Searing scallops is all about achieving that perfect golden crust. Make sure your skillet is preheated over medium-high heat before adding the olive oil and butter. You want the butter to be bubbling and shimmering without burning. If you see smoke, reduce the heat slightly. It's essential to place the scallops in a single layer, giving each piece enough space to cook evenly. This method not only prevents steaming but also ensures a beautiful, caramelized exterior.

When cooking the scallops, resist the urge to move them around in the pan. Allow them to cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they develop a golden-brown crust. The scallops should naturally release from the pan when they're ready to flip. If they stick, give them a bit longer. This technique reveals their natural sweetness while providing an appealing texture contrast once plated.

Flavor Enhancements

For those looking to elevate the dish, consider adding a splash of white wine after flipping the scallops. This addition will infuse the scallops with a deeper flavor profile while creating a delightful sauce. Opt for a dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the sea's brininess. Simmer the mixture for an additional minute or two to allow the alcohol to evaporate while concentrating the flavors.

Lemon juice not only adds brightness but also balances the richness of the butter. Freshly squeezed juice is key here; the bottled varieties often contain preservatives that can dull the flavor. Toss the scallops gently in the sauce just before serving for a glossy finish. The burst of citrus is a perfect match for the succulent seafood, enhancing your meal's overall appeal.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful dish:

Ingredients

12 large scallops
2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon of olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to have these ingredients ready for a quick and seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect scallop dinner:

Prepare the Scallops

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

Heat the Pan

In a skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Sear the Scallops

Add the scallops to the pan in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes without moving them until golden brown.

Flip and Finish

Flip each scallop gently, add garlic, remaining butter, and lemon juice. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until opaque.

Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious Easy Scallops Dinner!

Pro Tips

Ensure your scallops are dry before cooking for a better sear. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this lowers the temperature and can lead to steaming instead of searing.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're unable to find fresh scallops, frozen options work well, too. Just be sure to defrost them properly—overnight in the fridge is best—to maintain their texture. Pat them dry thoroughly as moisture can hinder the searing process, resulting in less crispy edges, and more steaming.

For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. This will alter the richness of the dish slightly, but will still yield a delightful flavor profile. You can also enhance the savory notes by adding a pinch of smoked paprika or nutritional yeast.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stove to prevent the scallops from becoming rubbery. Avoid the microwave, as it tends to cook seafood unevenly and can alter the texture unfavorably.

While scallops are best enjoyed fresh, if you've made the herb butter sauce in advance, it can be refrigerated for up to a week. Reheat it on low heat, stirring occasionally, to keep it smooth and flavorful when you serve it again. This approach maintains the quality of your meal and minimizes waste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

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

→ What can I serve with scallops?

Scallops pair well with a light salad, asparagus, or over a bed of creamy risotto.

→ How can I tell when scallops are done?

They should be opaque and firm to the touch. Overcooking makes them rubbery.

→ Can I substitute butter with a different oil?

Yes, olive oil works well, but butter gives a richer flavor.