Scallop Recipes | Easy, Delicious & Perfect for Any Occasion

Last updated: September 23, 2025 at 5:19 am by Admin

Looking for a dish that’s fancy enough for date night but easy enough for a busy weekday? 

Scallop recipes are the answer! These buttery, tender, golden-brown seafood gems cook in just minutes and taste like something straight out of a fine dining restaurant. 

With a quick prep time of 10 minutes and a total cooking time of 15 minutes, this recipe is perfect for families, seafood lovers, or busy professionals who want something impressive without the fuss.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes.
  
• Restaurant-Quality Taste: Pan-seared scallops taste gourmet with minimal effort.
  
• Versatile: Works for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts.
  
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein, vitamins, and low in calories.
  
• Beginner-Friendly: Simple step-by-step instructions, no chef training required.
  

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Ingredients Needed

• 1 lb sea scallops (fresh or frozen, thawed)
  
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or unsalted butter)
  
• 2 tbsp butter (for basting, optional but recommended)
  
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
  
• Fresh lemon juice (½ lemon, squeezed)
  
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
  

Substitutions:

• Use ghee instead of butter for a nutty flavor.
  
• Swap olive oil with avocado oil if preferred.
  
• Add a pinch of paprika or chili flakes for a spiced version.
  

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How to Make Scallop Recipes

1. Prep the scallops: Pat scallops dry with paper towels. Removing moisture is key to getting a golden sear.
   
2. Season: Sprinkle with salt and pepper on both sides.
   
3. Heat the pan: Add olive oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
   
4. Sear: Place scallops in the pan (don’t overcrowd). Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
   
5. Add flavor: In the last minute, add butter and garlic. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the scallops for rich flavor.
   
6. Finish: Squeeze lemon juice over the top and sprinkle with parsley before serving.
   

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Recipe Tips & Variations

• Don’t Overcook: Scallops turn rubbery if cooked too long. Stick to 2–3 minutes per side.
  
• Cast Iron Skillet Works Best: It gives the best sear.
  
• Variations:
  
  • Add a splash of white wine while deglazing the pan.
    
  • Try a creamy garlic sauce for pasta.
    
  • Grill scallops instead of pan-searing for a smoky twist.
    

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What to Serve It With

• Garlic butter pasta
  
• Risotto (lemon or parmesan)
  
• Steamed asparagus or roasted veggies
  
• Fresh salad with vinaigrette
  
• Rice pilaf or couscous
  

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Storage & Reheating Tips

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  
• Freezer: Best eaten fresh, but you can freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before reheating.
  
• Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet with a little butter. Avoid microwaving to prevent rubbery texture.
  

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Nutrition Info (Per Serving, approx)

• Calories: 220
  
• Protein: 24g
  
• Carbs: 2g
  
• Fat: 12g
  

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Printable Recipe Card

Pan-Seared Scallop Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb scallops
  
• 2 tbsp olive oil
  
• 2 tbsp butter
  
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  
• Salt & pepper
  
• ½ lemon (juice)
  
• Fresh parsley
  

Instructions:

1. Pat scallops dry and season with salt and pepper.
   
2. Heat oil in skillet until hot.
   
3. Sear scallops 2–3 mins per side.
   
4. Add butter and garlic, baste scallops.
   
5. Finish with lemon juice and parsley.
   

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FAQs About Scallop Recipes

1. How do you know when scallops are done?
They should be golden on the outside and slightly opaque in the center.

2. Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.

3. Why won’t my scallops brown?
They need to be very dry and cooked in a hot pan without overcrowding.

4. What’s the difference between sea scallops and bay scallops?
Sea scallops are larger and best for searing, while bay scallops are smaller and sweeter, often used in stews.

5. Can I make scallops in the air fryer?
Yes! Cook at 400°F for 6–7 minutes, flipping halfway through.

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Conclusion

If you’re craving a quick, healthy, and elegant seafood dish, these scallop recipes are your go-to. With just a handful of ingredients and under 20 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on the table that’s sure to impress. Perfect for date nights, weeknight dinners, or special celebrations—scallops never disappoint!