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Perfectly Crispy Pan-Seared Scallops

These Perfectly Crispy Pan-Seared Scallops promise a delightful crunch on the outside while maintaining tender juiciness inside, making them a perfect dish for impressing guests.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Seafood
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb large sea scallops Ensure scallops are fresh for best flavor.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 Fresh lemon For squeezing over scallops.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the scallops dry using a paper towel. This step is crucial—wet scallops won’t crisp up properly. Season them generously with salt and black pepper.
Cooking
  1. Place a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Let it heat until the oil shimmers.
  2. Carefully place the scallops in the pan, avoiding overcrowding. Let them sear without moving for about 2-3 minutes until a golden crust forms.
  3. Turn the scallops over, add the butter, and baste the scallops for an additional 1-2 minutes to infuse rich flavor into the scallops.
Serving
  1. Once done, remove the scallops from the pan and squeeze fresh lemon juice over them. Enjoy!

Notes

For optimal cooking, avoid overcrowding the pan and ensure scallops are dried. Serve with a light salad or creamy risotto, and pair with a crisp white wine.