Restaurant Style Seared Scallops

Name: Restaurant Style Seared Scallops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 8 large sea scallops; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Fresh herbs for garnish (e.g., parsley or chives)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making restaurant-style seared scallops at home. The elegance and flavors of this dish always impress, and it’s surprisingly simple to prepare. By giving the scallops a good sear, I create a beautiful golden crust that enhances their natural sweetness. Paired with a light sauce or a fresh salad, these scallops become the centerpiece of any meal. Trust me, once you master this technique, you'll want to share this recipe with everyone!

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-01-20T02:37:12.812Z

When I first attempted restaurant-style seared scallops, it felt like a high-stakes kitchen test. I learned quickly that the key is to ensure the scallops are completely dry before they hit the pan. This small tip made a significant difference, resulting in a perfect sear each time. Additionally, using a hot cast-iron skillet helps achieve that gorgeous crust.

Over time, I've experimented with different flavor profiles, but I always come back to a simple butter and garlic sauce that elevates the dish without overpowering it. The balance of flavors is essential, and I like to finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for color and freshness.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
The scallops have a rich, buttery flavor that feels indulgent.
With a simple butter sauce, you can customize the taste to your liking.

      

Choosing the Right Scallops

When preparing seared scallops, the choice of scallops is crucial. I recommend using large sea scallops, as they provide a delightful sweetness and a meaty texture. Look for scallops that are dry (not previously soaked in saltwater) for optimal searing—these will create the best crust. You might notice some labels such as 'dry packed' or 'wet packed'; prioritize dry packed for this recipe to achieve that golden sear without excess moisture.

For the freshest scallops, try to purchase them from a trusted seafood market or fishmonger. Fresh scallops should have a clean, briny smell and a slightly translucent appearance. If you're unable to find fresh scallops, high-quality frozen scallops can be a suitable alternative—just ensure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking for even results.

Perfecting the Sear

Achieving the perfect sear on your scallops requires attention to heat. After patting them dry, use medium-high heat to get your oil shimmering before adding the scallops; this timing is crucial. Place the scallops in the skillet with plenty of space between them—overcrowding will lower the skillet's temperature, preventing that desirable brown crust. If you find they’re sticking, they likely need more time before flipping; patience is key here.

Watch for visual cues to know when they're ready to flip. A golden crust around the edges usually indicates a good sear. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side, adjusting the heat if necessary to prevent burning. Once done, they should feel firm to the touch and have a slight bounce, indicating a perfectly cooked inside.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth preparation process.

For the Scallops

8 large sea scallops
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh herbs for garnish (e.g., parsley or chives)

Make sure to use fresh scallops for the best flavor and texture.

Instructions

Preparation is key; make sure to have everything ready before searing the scallops.

Prepare the Scallops

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

Heat the Skillet

In a cast-iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Sear the Scallops

Carefully add the scallops to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

Make the Sauce

Reduce heat to medium, add the butter and minced garlic, and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Spoon the sauce over the scallops.

Serve

Garnish with fresh herbs and enjoy immediately while hot.

Enjoy your perfectly seared scallops with a side of your choice!

Pro Tips

Make sure the scallops are well-dried before cooking to ensure a nice sear. Don't rush the cooking process
give them ample time to develop a golden crust.

Enhancing the Butter Sauce

The butter sauce is where you can really customize this dish. Once you add the garlic, watch it carefully—overcooked garlic can turn bitter. Cook it until fragrant and slightly golden, about one minute, before spooning it over the scallops. This sauce not only adds flavor but also a beautiful glossiness to the dish. Consider squeezing a bit of lemon juice into the sauce for a bright contrast that complements the scallops' richness.

You can also experiment with different herbs and spices for the sauce. Fresh thyme or a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor further. If you want a slightly decadent twist, adding a splash of white wine to the butter and garlic can create a quick, luscious sauce that resonates with the sea flavor of the scallops.

Serving Suggestions

While seared scallops are stunning on their own, serving them with a light salad or a side of sautéed seasonal vegetables enhances the dish's overall appeal. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a peppery bite that balances the butteriness of the scallops beautifully. Alternatively, roasted asparagus or green beans can make for a vibrant side that contrasts in texture and flavor.

If you want to make it a heartier meal, serve over a bed of risotto or creamy polenta. These sides not only provide a comforting base but also soak up any delicious sauce left on the plate, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Presentation is key, so consider plating with care—placing the scallops on top of the side, garnished with fresh herbs, can make the dish visually stunning.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

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

→ What should I serve with scallops?

Scallops pair wonderfully with light salads, pasta, or even risotto for a well-rounded meal.

→ How do I know when scallops are done?

Scallops should be opaque and firm to the touch. They typically take about 2-3 minutes per side to cook.

→ Can I add other flavors to the butter sauce?

Absolutely! You can add lemon juice, capers, or even a splash of white wine for extra flavor.