Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce

Why Make This Recipe

Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce is a delightful dish that brings together the perfect blend of flavors. This recipe is not only quick and simple but also elevates your dinner table with a taste of the sea. Scallops are healthy and cook in just a few minutes, making this meal a great choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. The zesty lime and fresh cilantro add a burst of freshness, making every bite a joy.

How to Make Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce

Ingredients

• 1 lb sea scallops, patted dry
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon lime zest
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Directions

1. Pat the scallops completely dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the scallops in a single layer.
4. Sear the scallops for about 2 minutes per side, or until a golden crust forms.
5. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside on a warm plate.
6. In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
7. Stir in lime juice and lime zest, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
8. Return scallops to the skillet, spooning the lime butter sauce over them.
9. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.

How to Serve Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce

Serve these delicious scallops on a bed of rice or alongside a fresh salad for a light meal. You can also pair them with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. Garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges for an extra touch.

How to Store Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce

To store leftovers, let the scallops cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can be stored for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain their texture.

Tips to Make Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce

• Make sure your scallops are dry before cooking; this helps achieve a nice sear.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the scallops. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Adjust the amount of lime juice and zest according to your taste preference.

Variation

You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley can be a great substitute.

FAQs

Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

What if I don’t have lime?
If you don’t have lime, lemon juice can be used as a substitute. The flavor will be a bit different but still delicious.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While scallops are best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and quickly cook the scallops when you’re ready to eat.

Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce

A quick and delightful dish featuring perfectly seared scallops with a burst of zesty lime and fresh cilantro flavors.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Seafood

Calories: 300

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb sea scallops, patted dry
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon lime zest
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Method

 

Preparation

1. Pat the scallops completely dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Cooking

1. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the scallops in a single layer.
2. Sear the scallops for about 2 minutes per side, or until a golden crust forms.
3. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside on a warm plate.
4. In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Stir in lime juice and lime zest, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
6. Return scallops to the skillet, spooning the lime butter sauce over them.
7. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

Serve the scallops on a bed of rice or alongside a fresh salad. Garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges for extra flair. Make sure the scallops are dry for the best sear, and avoid overcrowding the pan.