Description
Quickly prepare a gourmet meal of perfectly seared scallops bathed in a vibrant, tangy lime cilantro sauce, ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
1 lb large sea scallops, patted very dry
1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce:
1/4 cup fresh lime juice (from 2-3 limes)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the scallops. Pat the scallops thoroughly dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Heat the pan. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers and just begins to smoke.
Step 3: Sear the scallops. Place the scallops in the hot pan in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook for 1.5 to 2 minutes per side until a deep golden-brown crust forms and the scallops are opaque throughout. Cook in batches if necessary.
Step 4: Make the sauce. While the scallops are searing, whisk together the lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, 1 tablespoon olive oil, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt in a small bowl.
Step 5: Serve immediately. Remove the seared scallops from the pan and arrange them on serving plates. Drizzle generously with the zesty lime cilantro sauce and serve hot.
Notes
For best results, use fresh, dry-packed sea scallops. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure a proper sear instead of steaming. The sauce can be made a few hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-5 scallops
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
