Description
Perfectly seared scallops served with a bright and tangy lime cilantro sauce, finished with a sizzle of butter and herbs.
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Scallops:
- 1 lb large sea scallops, side muscle removed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- For the Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce:
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the scallops: Pat scallops completely dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, cilantro, garlic, honey, salt, and red pepper flakes. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking until emulsified. Set aside.
- Heat a large cast iron or heavy skillet over high heat until smoking hot. Add olive oil and swirl to coat.
- Carefully place scallops in the skillet in a single layer, leaving space between each. Sear undisturbed for 90 seconds until deep golden crust forms.
- Flip scallops and add butter to the pan. Cook another 60 seconds, basting scallops with the melted butter.
- Remove scallops from heat immediately. Arrange on a serving platter.
- Drizzle the lime cilantro sauce over the scallops. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges. Serve immediately.
Notes
For the best sear, ensure scallops are as dry as possible. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. The sauce can be made up to an hour in advance and refrigerated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Method: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 24g