How to Sear Scallops
User Reviews
4.1
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
5 mins
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Total Time
10 mins
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Servings
2
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Calories
78 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
How to Sear Scallops
Description
This technique begins with seasoning large sea scallops with coarse salt and freshly ground pepper. A large pan, preferably cast iron, is heated over high heat until smoking, then scallops are added in a single layer without crowding to ensure even heat distribution. They are left undisturbed for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes to form a nutty, browned crust on the bottom. After confirming the crust has formed, scallops are flipped to sear the other side for the same duration.
The result is scallops with a crisp, golden-brown exterior and a juicy interior. The method relies on high heat and timing to prevent overcooking. After searing, scallops are removed and served immediately to retain texture and flavor.
Removing the pan from heat and letting scallops rest briefly can keep them warm without overcooking. This approach highlights the simplicity and precision required for perfectly seared scallops.
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound sea scallops large
- sea salt coarse
- black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
- Use a large cast iron pan over high heat. If using a stainless steel pan add just enough canola oil to coat the bottom, but not to pool.
- Season scallops with coarse salt and freshly ground pepper.
- At the moment your pan starts to smoke, add your scallops.
- Make sure your pan is large enough that they aren't crowded or touching. They need space to allow them to cook evenly and let the heat circulate around them.
- After you set them down, DO NOT TOUCH. You must wait 1 1/2 to 2 minutes for that yummy, nutty crust to form. Just take a quick peek to the underbelly to check, then proceed on flipping. You'll be tempted to overcook them, but you must trust your gut here.
- Repeat on the opposite side.
- Remove and serve immediately. If you need to keep them warm to plate the rest of the meal, remove the pan from heat and allow to sit in the hot pan for no longer than 4-5 minutes before serving.
- If you've tried this recipe, come back and let us know how it was in the comments or ratings.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 2Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 78 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 78kcal | 4% |
| Carbohydrates | 3g | 1% |
| Protein | 13g | 26% |
| Cholesterol | 27mg | 9% |
| Sodium | 444mg | 19% |
| Potassium | 232mg | 5% |
| Calcium | 7mg | 1% |
| Iron | 0.4mg | 2% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.1
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