Citrus Butter Seared Scallops

Name: Citrus Butter Seared Scallops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 16 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 8 large sea scallops; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Taste the Globe

I love making Citrus Butter Seared Scallops for a quick yet satisfying meal. The combination of buttery richness with a hint of citrus creates a vibrant dish that’s perfect any time. I relish the process of perfectly searing the scallops to achieve that coveted golden crust while ensuring a tender, juicy interior. Whether it's for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe has become a go-to in my culinary repertoire. With just a handful of ingredients, you can impress your guests and yourself alike!

Created by

Lina

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:45:28.379Z

During my recent culinary adventure, I decided to experiment with searing scallops. The moment I put those little beauties in the pan, the sizzle spoke volumes. I discovered that using a blend of butter and citrus zest not only enhances the flavor but elevates the dish to restaurant-quality levels. The key is to give the scallops enough space in the pan, so they sear instead of steam.

I particularly love pairing them with a splash of lemon juice and some herbs at the end, as it brightens the overall flavor. This technique has transformed my approach to seafood, making it simpler yet infinitely more delicious. Scallops can be tricky, but with this method, you'll be a pro in no time!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Buttery richness with a fresh citrus twist
Quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights
Impressive presentation that wows guests

The Art of Searing Scallops

Achieving a perfect sear is crucial to the texture and flavor of your scallops. Make sure to use a heavy-bottomed skillet that conducts heat evenly; cast iron works particularly well. Prior to cooking, ensure your scallops are thoroughly dried with paper towels, as moisture can prevent that beautifully golden crust from forming. When searing, resist the temptation to move them around; let them sit for 2-3 minutes until they easily release from the pan.

The timing for searing is vital. Overcrowding the pan can drop the temperature, leading to steaming rather than searing. Aim for a medium-high heat that is hot enough to create a nice char without burning. After flipping, the addition of butter not only enriches flavor but also helps to baste the scallops, enhancing their moisture as they cook to the perfect opaque center.

Citrus Infusion Techniques

The bright flavors of citrus in this dish help to elevate the rich taste of scallops. Fresh lemon juice and zest play a dual role; not only do they provide acidity that balances the fat of the butter, but they also impart a vibrant aroma. I recommend using a microplane for zesting to capture the essential oils without the bitterness of the pith, creating a fragrant base for your dish.

To make the most of the citrus flavor, avoid adding the juice too early in the cooking process. By introducing the juices after flipping the scallops, you ensure the acidity melds with the buttery sauce without overpowering the delicate seafood. The final product should have a glossy, citrus-laden sauce that can be drizzled over the scallops for an eye-catching presentation.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Citrus Butter Seared Scallops

8 large sea scallops
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper on both sides.

Heat the Pan

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Sear the Scallops

Add the scallops, making sure they aren't overcrowded. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and add the remaining butter.

Add Citrus Flavor

After flipping, add lemon zest and juice to the pan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until scallops are opaque.

Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with parsley before serving immediately.

Pro Tips

Make sure the scallops are as dry as possible before searing
this will help achieve a perfect crust. Avoid moving them around in the pan too much while cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Citrus Butter Seared Scallops make a stunning main dish that pairs beautifully with various sides. I recommend serving them over a bed of creamy risotto or alongside sautéed asparagus for a well-rounded meal. A simple arugula salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice complements the richness of the scallops, adding freshness and texture.

For a more casual gathering, consider serving the scallops as an appetizer. Skewer them onto toothpicks for easy handling and drizzle with the citrus sauce just before serving. This presentation not only looks elegant but transforms them into bite-sized delights that are sure to impress your guests.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, store scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind that reheating can compromise their delicate texture, so it's best to do so gently. I recommend warming them in a skillet over low heat just until heated through, rather than using a microwave, which can make them rubbery.

For longer storage, consider freezing uncooked scallops instead of cooked ones, as they maintain better texture. When ready to use, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for best results. This ensures that you're working with the freshest possible scallops, which are key to a successful dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, just ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before cooking.

→ What can I serve with scallops?

These scallops pair perfectly with a light salad or over a bed of creamy risotto.

→ How do I know when scallops are done?

Scallops are done when they are opaque and firm to the touch. They should also have a nice golden crust.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

It's best to serve scallops immediately after cooking, but you can prep the ingredients in advance.