Citrus Butter Seared Scallops
Highlighted under: Globetrotter Food Guide
I absolutely love cooking scallops, and my Citrus Butter Seared Scallops have become a favorite in our home. The bright, zesty flavor of the citrus combined with the rich butter makes each bite an indulgent experience. I enjoy serving these scallops as a sophisticated appetizer for dinner parties or as a quick weeknight meal that feels special. The cooking method is straightforward, ensuring that the scallops are perfectly seared with a gorgeous golden crust while remaining tender and juicy inside. It's a dish that's sure to impress anyone at the table!
When I first tried making Citrus Butter Seared Scallops, I was amazed by how easy it was to bring restaurant-level quality to my kitchen. The key to a successful sear lies in ensuring that the scallops are properly dried and that the pan is hot enough to create that perfect golden crust. I remember experimenting with various citrus elements, but a combination of lemon and orange juice really sets this dish apart.
This recipe has quickly become a go-to for me. Not only does it require minimal ingredients, but the flavors are vibrant and fresh. I always make sure to have fresh scallops on hand, and the result is almost like a mini celebration on a plate. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or a side of rice.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright citrus flavors elevate the delicate taste of scallops.
- Quick cooking time for a delicious, restaurant-worthy dish at home.
- Easy to customize with your favorite herbs or spices.
The Importance of Drying Scallops
To achieve that perfect sear on your scallops, it is essential to dry them thoroughly before cooking. If the scallops are wet, they will steam instead of sear, leading to a less-than-desirable texture. After rinsing the scallops, use a clean paper towel to pat them dry, ensuring they absorb any excess moisture. This step, although simple, is critical for a beautifully caramelized crust that contrasts wonderfully with the tender inside.
When seasoning your scallops, be generous but precise. A light sprinkle of salt and a dash of black pepper on each side enhance the natural sweetness of the scallops. Remember, scallops have a delicate flavor, so the seasoning should highlight rather than overpower. Just enough seasoning will elevate your dish without masking the scallops’ inherent taste.
Choosing the Right Pan
The type of skillet you use can significantly impact the cooking process. A heavy-bottomed stainless steel or cast-iron skillet is ideal because it retains heat well, ensuring that the scallops sear evenly and develop a golden crust. Avoid non-stick pans, as they can prevent the necessary browning that creates a rich flavor profile. Preheating the pan adequately is key; it should be hot enough that water droplets sizzle and evaporate almost immediately when added.
When placing the scallops in the pan, make sure to leave enough space between each one. Overcrowding can cause the temperature to drop, resulting in steamed scallops instead of seared ones. It's better to cook them in batches if your pan isn't large enough, ensuring that each scallop has room to get that beautiful golden-brown crust.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
For an elegant presentation, consider pairing your Citrus Butter Seared Scallops with a bed of creamy risotto or a light arugula salad. The creaminess or the peppery notes of the greens will complement the zesty butter sauce beautifully. For added texture, you can also incorporate toasted nuts like pine nuts or slivered almonds, which offer a delightful crunch alongside the tender scallops.
Exploring flavor variations can also be exciting! You might experiment with different citrus juices, such as lime or grapefruit, depending on your taste preferences. Additionally, adding fresh herbs like dill or basil allows for a customized touch that can transform the dish. If you’re looking to enhance the dish further, a splash of white wine deglazed after cooking brings additional depth of flavor.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Citrus Butter Seared Scallops
- 12 large sea scallops
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Steps
Prepare the Scallops
Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a good sear. Season both sides of the scallops with salt and pepper.
Heat the Pan
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Make sure the pan is hot enough so the scallops sizzle upon contact.
Sear the Scallops
Add the scallops to the pan in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Add the Citrus Butter
Lower the heat slightly, then add the butter, lemon juice, and orange juice to the pan. Spoon the melted butter over the scallops for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Serve
Remove the scallops from the pan and arrange on a plate. Drizzle with the citrus butter sauce from the pan and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Pro Tips
- For best results, use large, dry scallops, which are easier to sear and have a better flavor. You can also add a pinch of chili flakes for a bit of heat if you like.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store the scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, note that reheated scallops may become rubbery if overcooked. To gently reheat, you might try placing them in a preheated skillet over low heat with a splash of water or citrus juice, just until warmed through, about 2–3 minutes.
For longer-term storage, you can freeze cooked scallops. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, ensuring they stay air-tight. They can last in the freezer for up to two months. When ready to use, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This will help maintain their texture and flavor.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you find that your scallops are sticking to the pan, this is usually a sign that they are not yet ready to turn. Scallops will release naturally from the pan once they are seared properly. If they resist, give them more time—this typically takes about 2-3 minutes per side. If you find they are browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.
Should your scallops turn out a bit chewy, it likely means they were cooked for too long. Ideally, they should be opaque and slightly firm when perfectly cooked. As you practice, aim to remove them from the heat as soon as they are just cooked through to retain their juicy texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you're out of scallops, shrimp can be a delightful alternative. They require similar cooking times and will absorb the citrus butter flavors well. You can also use fish fillets, like cod or halibut, although cooking times will vary; ensure the fillets reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative in place of the unsalted butter. This will offer a different, yet enjoyable flavor profile while still complementing the citrus notes of the dish. If you're sensitive to citrus, consider balsamic vinegar reduction for a tangy twist.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best sear.
→ What side dishes pair well with scallops?
Green salads, roasted vegetables, or a light pasta dish complement scallops nicely.
→ How can I tell when scallops are done?
Scallops should be opaque and firm to the touch, and they will easily release from the pan.
→ Can I add other seasonings?
Absolutely! Garlic, thyme, or crushed red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor of this dish.
Citrus Butter Seared Scallops
I absolutely love cooking scallops, and my Citrus Butter Seared Scallops have become a favorite in our home. The bright, zesty flavor of the citrus combined with the rich butter makes each bite an indulgent experience. I enjoy serving these scallops as a sophisticated appetizer for dinner parties or as a quick weeknight meal that feels special. The cooking method is straightforward, ensuring that the scallops are perfectly seared with a gorgeous golden crust while remaining tender and juicy inside. It's a dish that's sure to impress anyone at the table!
What You'll Need
Citrus Butter Seared Scallops
- 12 large sea scallops
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a good sear. Season both sides of the scallops with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Make sure the pan is hot enough so the scallops sizzle upon contact.
Add the scallops to the pan in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Lower the heat slightly, then add the butter, lemon juice, and orange juice to the pan. Spoon the melted butter over the scallops for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Remove the scallops from the pan and arrange on a plate. Drizzle with the citrus butter sauce from the pan and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Extra Tips
- For best results, use large, dry scallops, which are easier to sear and have a better flavor. You can also add a pinch of chili flakes for a bit of heat if you like.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 330mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 8g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 30g