Seared scallops are a tasty treat that cooks up quickly! These little seafood morsels are tender on the inside and have a nice golden crust on the outside.
Cooking them is like magic! Just a few minutes in a hot pan and they turn into a fancy meal that’s perfect for impressing guests—or yourself! I love pairing them with a squeeze of lemon for some extra zing.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sea Scallops: The star of the dish! Look for large, fresh sea scallops for the best flavor. If they’re not available, try using bay scallops, but keep in mind they might cook faster due to their smaller size.
Blue Cheese: This adds a strong flavor. If blue cheese isn’t your thing, consider using feta or goat cheese for a milder taste. Crumbled feta will give a nice tang without being too overpowering.
Olive Oil: A must for cooking! You can substitute grapeseed or canola oil if you’re looking for a neutral flavor. However, I love the richness that olive oil brings!
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal here so you can control the seasoning. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use vegan butter or olive oil instead.
What’s the Best Way to Sear Scallops Without Overcooking Them?
Getting that perfect sear can be tricky! Here’s how to do it right:
- Pat the scallops dry really well before cooking. This helps them brown beautifully!
- Heat your pan over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking. This ensures a quick sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Give scallops space to breathe—this helps them sear rather than steam!
- Resist the urge to move them around. Let them sear for 2-3 minutes until they’re golden before flipping!
This technique will give you that lovely crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Enjoy your scallops with confidence!
How to Make Seared Scallops with Herb Butter and Blue Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large sea scallops (about 12 scallops)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of preparation and 10 minutes of cooking time. So, in just 20 minutes or so, you’ll have a fantastic dish ready to impress your family or guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Scallops:
Start by patting the scallops dry thoroughly with paper towels. If there’s a little piece of muscle on the side of the scallops, peel it off. Season both sides with a healthy sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Heat the Pan:
Pour the olive oil into a large skillet and heat it over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering—you’ll know it’s ready when the oil is hot but not smoking. This will help get that beautiful sear we’re looking for!
3. Sear the Scallops:
Carefully place the scallops in the skillet, making sure to give them some space. No overcrowding here! Sear them without moving them for about 2-3 minutes until they develop a nice golden-brown crust.
4. Flip and Cook:
Using tongs, gently flip the scallops over. Let them cook for another 1-2 minutes until they’re just cooked through and opaque. Remove them from the pan and set them aside on a warm plate.
5. Make the Herb Butter Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium. In the same pan, add the unsalted butter. Once it’s melted, toss in the minced garlic and chopped parsley. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—your kitchen will smell amazing!
6. Add Blue Cheese:
Next, stir in the crumbled blue cheese and let it soften and blend with the butter, creating a rich and creamy sauce.
7. Serve It Up:
Pour the herb butter and blue cheese sauce over your beautifully seared scallops. Garnish with a bit more chopped parsley, and serve right away with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of lemon will brighten the flavors.
This simple yet elegant dish results in perfectly seared scallops with a rich, buttery sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Enjoy your gourmet meal!
Can I Use Frozen Scallops for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just ensure they’re fully thawed before cooking. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for a quicker thaw. Be sure to dry them thoroughly before cooking to achieve that nice sear!
What Can I Substitute for Blue Cheese?
If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, feel free to substitute with feta cheese for a milder taste or goat cheese for a creamy texture. Both will still pair beautifully with the scallops!
How to Store Leftover Scallops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to prevent overcooking and drying them out.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the herb butter and blue cheese sauce ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove just before serving the scallops. It makes meal prep a breeze!