Lemon Herb Seared Scallops

Name: Lemon Herb Seared Scallops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 pound sea scallops; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love cooking scallops, and this Lemon Herb Seared Scallops recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. The bright citrus and fresh herbs truly elevate the sweet, delicate flavor of the scallops. For me, cooking them is always a rewarding experience as they transform into a beautiful dish with a simple sear. This dish can easily impress guests at a dinner party or satisfy a craving for something elegant and delicious during a quiet evening at home. It’s surprisingly quick and requires just a few ingredients!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:57:28.178Z

When I first made these Lemon Herb Seared Scallops, I was amazed at how quickly I could whip up a gourmet meal. The key to achieving that perfect sear lies in drying the scallops completely before cooking and not overcrowding the pan. This technique ensures a beautiful golden crust that locks in all the sweetness of the scallops.

I’ve often paired these scallops with a light salad or some garlic sautéed vegetables. The fresh herbs and zesty lemon bring everything together, making it not just a meal but a delightful experience. Trust me, once you try this dish, you’ll be hooked!

        You Will Love This Recipe For
        The bright, zesty flavor of fresh lemon and herbs
The tender, perfectly seared texture of the scallops
The quick cooking time makes it a go-to for busy weeknights

      

Mastering the Sear

Achieving the perfect sear on scallops is all about the timing and heat. Start with a hot skillet, ensuring the olive oil and butter are shimmering but not smoking. If the pan isn’t hot enough, the scallops will steam rather than sear, resulting in a less desirable texture. I recommend letting the skillet heat for at least 2-3 minutes before adding the scallops to ensure you get that gorgeous golden crust.

As you sear the scallops, resist the urge to move them around too much. Letting them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes on one side will help develop that flavorful crust. You’ll know they are ready to turn when they easily release from the pan and have a beautiful golden edge. If they stick, give them a little more time.

Ingredient Insights

The freshness of the scallops profoundly impacts this dish's flavor. When purchasing scallops, look for firm, moist scallops with a sweet ocean scent. Avoid any that appear dull or have an ammonia smell. If fresh scallops are unavailable, you can use frozen ones, but be sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight to maintain texture quality.

Lemon plays a crucial role in brightening the dish, but its zesty full-bodied flavor comes from using both the zest and juice. Zesting the lemon before juicing ensures that you capture the aromatic oils found in the skin. This combination not only enhances the scallops’ sweetness but also adds a refreshing complexity to each bite.

Ingredients

For the Scallops

1 pound sea scallops
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Scallops

Rinse the scallops under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Remove the side muscle if still attached.

Season the Scallops

Season the scallops with salt, pepper, lemon zest, and minced garlic.

Heat the Pan

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Sear the Scallops

Add the scallops to the hot skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and opaque in the center.

Finish with Lemon Juice and Herbs

Drizzle the lemon juice over the scallops and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

For a perfect sear, ensure the skillet is hot before adding the scallops, and avoid moving them around too much while they cook.

Variations and Enhancements

If you're looking to give this dish a twist, consider adding different herbs such as thyme or dill alongside the parsley. This not only elevates the flavor profile but allows you to tailor the dish to your personal preference or seasonal availability. A sprinkle of red chili flakes can also introduce a pleasant kick that contrasts beautifully with the scallops' sweetness.

For a heartier meal, serve the scallops atop a bed of creamy risotto or alongside sautéed asparagus. These sides complement the delicate texture of the scallops while soaking up the lovely lemon-herb sauce, creating a well-rounded dining experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain their texture, only reheat them gently; avoid the microwave, as it can make them rubbery. Instead, warm them in a skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes, adding a splash of lemon juice to help retain moisture.

I recommend not freezing cooked scallops, as they can become tough and lose flavor. However, if you have fresh scallops and want to prepare in advance, you can clean and season them up to 24 hours before cooking. Store them covered in the fridge to ensure they stay fresh.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with cooking scallops is overcooking, which can lead to a rubbery texture. To avoid this, ensure your scallops are cooked to an internal temperature of 125°F for perfectly tender results. An instant-read thermometer can help you monitor this easily.

If your scallops don’t develop a good sear, it may be due to overcrowding in the pan. Cook in batches if necessary, allowing each scallop to have enough space to brown well. A crowded skillet can cause the temperature to drop, leading to uneven cooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

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

→ What can I serve with seared scallops?

They pair beautifully with light salads, garlic vegetables, or a creamy risotto.

→ How do I know when scallops are cooked?

Scallops should be opaque and slightly firm to the touch when cooked through.

→ Can I substitute the herbs?

Absolutely! Fresh dill or basil can be great alternatives to parsley.