Pan-Seared Scallops with Garlic

Name: Pan-Seared Scallops with Garlic
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound sea scallops; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup white wine (or chicken broth); 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Homestyle Meals

I absolutely love making Pan-Seared Scallops with Garlic for a quick yet elegant dinner. The satisfying sizzle of the scallops in the pan is music to my ears, and it only takes a few minutes to achieve a restaurant-quality dish right at home. The combination of buttery scallops infused with garlic and a hint of lemon is simply divine. Whether it's for a special occasion or just a treat for myself, this dish never fails to impress. Join me in discovering how effortless it can be to prepare such a gourmet meal.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-22T12:01:30.376Z

Once, I decided to make a special dinner for my partner and knew I wanted to showcase the beautiful sear of scallops. After experimenting a few times, I found that achieving that golden crust simply requires a hot pan and patience. By letting the scallops rest on the heat without moving them, they develop a crust that enhances their naturally sweet flavor.

To elevate the dish, I added freshly minced garlic and a splash of white wine towards the end of cooking. This creates a lovely sauce that coats the scallops without overpowering their delicate taste. The balance of flavors is what keeps me returning to this recipe time and again.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick cooking time makes it perfect for weeknight dinners
Garlic adds a rich, aromatic flavor that complements the scallops
Impressive presentation for date nights or special occasions

Understanding Scallops

Choosing the right scallops is crucial for this dish. Sea scallops are ideal due to their sweet, delicate flavor and firm texture, which holds up beautifully when seared. Look for scallops that are plump and moist, avoiding any that appear dry or shriveled. Freshness is key, so it's best to purchase scallops directly from seafood markets or ensure they're well-stored in the seafood section of your grocery store.

When preparing scallops, patting them dry before cooking is a step you shouldn't skip. Removing excess moisture helps achieve that beautiful golden sear that elevates the dish. If the scallops are too wet, they will steam instead of sear, leading to a less appealing texture. Take your time to properly dry and season them right before cooking for the best results.

Perfecting the Sear

Getting the pan hot enough is essential for the perfect sear. You should aim for a medium-high heat; the oil should shimmer but not smoke. A hot pan creates a brown crust, enhancing the flavor and providing a nice textural contrast to the tender scallops. If you notice that the scallops are taking longer than expected to reach a golden brown, the pan might not be hot enough.

Overcrowding the pan is another common mistake that can hinder your scallops’ searing potential. If too many scallops are added at once, they will lower the pan’s temperature, causing them to steam. For best results, work in batches if needed, allowing enough space for each scallop to develop that lovely crust.

Enhancing Flavor with Garlic and Wine

The addition of minced garlic as soon as you flip the scallops is not just for flavor; it infuses the oil with its aromatic essence, creating a fragrant base for the sauce. Be cautious not to burn the garlic; cook it just until it becomes fragrant, about 30 seconds to a minute. If garlic browns too quickly, it can turn bitter, ruining the dish’s overall taste.

Using white wine or chicken broth adds acidity and depth to the sauce. Opt for a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the scallops perfectly. If you're looking for a non-alcoholic option, low-sodium chicken broth works well. The acidity helps to balance the richness of the scallops and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for the best flavor:

Ingredients

1 pound sea scallops
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to select dry scallops for the best sear!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your perfect scallops:

Prepare the Scallops

Remove the scallops from the refrigerator and pat them dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Heat the Pan

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Be sure the pan is hot enough to create a sear.

Sear the Scallops

Add the scallops to the pan in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on the first side until golden brown.

Flip and Add Garlic

Carefully flip each scallop and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for another 2 minutes, then pour in the white wine and lemon juice.

Finish and Serve

Allow the sauce to reduce slightly, then remove the pan from heat. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Serve these scallops alongside a light salad or over a bed of creamy risotto for a delightful meal.

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, try adding a pat of butter to the pan just before serving to create a luxurious sauce.

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover scallops, storing them properly is essential to maintain their flavor and texture. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a dash of oil to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the scallops rubbery.

For longer storage, scallops can be frozen raw. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a resealable bag, ensuring to remove excess air. When ready to use, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before cooking for the best quality.

Serving Suggestions

Pan-Seared Scallops pair beautifully with a variety of sides that complement their sweet flavor. Consider serving them atop a bed of creamy risotto, which balances the crunchy sear with a velvety texture, or alongside sautéed seasonal vegetables for a light, healthy meal.

For a simple yet elegant presentation, place scallops on a platter and drizzle the garlic and wine sauce over them, finishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. You can also add a lemon wedge on the side for an extra burst of freshness and acidity that enhances the dish beautifully.

Variations and Add-Ins

Experimenting with flavors can take your Pan-Seared Scallops to the next level. Try adding a touch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or dill in the final moments of cooking for additional aroma and flavor.

You can also introduce ingredients such as capers or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for an unexpected twist. These can enhance both texture and flavor, creating a more complex dish that’s sure to impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute sea scallops with bay scallops?

Yes, bay scallops can work, but they cook much faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

→ What can I serve with scallops?

Scallops pair beautifully with risotto, pasta, or a simple side of vegetables.

→ How do I know when scallops are cooked through?

Scallops should be opaque and firm to the touch when cooked, with a golden crust on the outside.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

It's best to cook scallops just before serving as they can become rubbery when reheated.