Delicious Pan Seared Scallops

Published 2/7/2022 • Updated 6/23/2022

Delicious Pan Seared Scallops

These perfectly cooked pan seared scallops take less than 5 minutes to cook and are topped with a delicious fresh herbs and garlic for the ultimate easy dinner. We aren’t lying when we say cooking scallops can be easy and fun!

Featured Ingredients

The ingredient list for these pan seared scallops is short. We kept this recipe simple but feel free to make these scallops your own by making fun substitutions.

Large scallops. We suggest using large scallops when making pan seared scallops. We prefer using fresh scallops (you can find them in most grocery stores at the deli). If you use frozen scallops just remember to thaw them. The cook time will vary by the size of your scallops so be cautious of this! Salt + ground black pepper. The only seasoning you need for these scallops are salt and pepper. Grape seed oil. High smoke point, neutral oil is key to giving scallops that delicious golden brown crust. Avocado oil will work, too!Fresh herbs– Pairing a pot seared scallop with fresh herbs sets this recipe over the top!Lime juice + zest– Traditionally scallops are paired with lemon zest or lemon juice but we use lime for this recipe! Garlic- Don’t skip the garlic!Butter– We add a few tablespoons to the pan or cast iron right before remove the scallops from the pan for flavor!

How to Make Pan Seared Scallops

How big your scallops are, matters! If your scallops are smaller the sear time will decrease. Keep an eye on this! Nobody likes overcooked scallops!

Pan Seared Scallops Q&A

What to Serve with Pan Seared Scallops

You can serve these pan seared scallops on their own, over polenta, with pasta or salad. It would also be fun to serve these along side steak for a surf and turf meal for special occasions. Below are some other great options to serve along side scallops.