Perfectly Seared Scallops

Few dishes feel as luxurious and effortless as perfectly seared scallops. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick cooking time, you can enjoy restaurant-quality scallops right at home. This recipe ensures a golden crust while keeping the centers tender and sweet.

Ingredients

• 1 to 1 1/4 pounds dry sea scallops (approximately 16)

• 2 teaspoons unsalted butter

• 2 teaspoons olive oil

• Kosher salt

• Freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the Scallops
   Begin by removing the small side muscle from each scallop. These tough little tabs can easily be pulled off by hand. Rinse the scallops gently with cold water and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of a good sear, so take your time to ensure they’re as dry as possible.

2. Heat the Pan
   Place a 12 to 14-inch sauté pan on high heat. Add the butter and olive oil to the pan and allow them to heat until the fat just begins to smoke. The combination of butter and oil helps achieve a rich flavor while preventing the butter from burning.

3. Season and Sear
   Season the scallops generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Carefully add the scallops to the hot pan, making sure they don’t touch one another. This spacing allows for proper browning rather than steaming.

4. Cooking Time
   Sear the scallops for 1 1/2 minutes on each side. The goal is a beautiful 1/4-inch golden crust while keeping the interior translucent and tender. Overcooking can make scallops rubbery, so monitor the heat and timing closely.

5. Serve Immediately
   Once both sides are perfectly seared, remove the scallops from the pan and serve right away. They pair beautifully with light accompaniments like a citrusy salad, a drizzle of browned butter, or simple steamed vegetables.

Why Choose Dry Scallops?

Opt for dry sea scallops whenever possible. Unlike "wet" scallops, which are soaked in a solution that can affect flavor and prevent proper browning, dry scallops caramelize beautifully and retain their natural sweetness.

Nutritional Benefits

Scallops are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits:

• High in lean protein: Roughly 20 grams per 3-ounce serving.

• Low in fat and calories: About 100 calories and less than 1 gram of fat per serving.

• Rich in nutrients: Provide magnesium, potassium, and vitamin B12, all supporting heart and nerve health.

The Bottom Line

With their delicate texture and mild sweetness, seared scallops are an excellent choice for an elegant yet healthy meal. Mastering the simple technique of a perfect sear turns this seafood favorite into a show-stopping dish.

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