Lemon Zest Seared Scallops

Name: Lemon Zest Seared Scallops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 8 fresh sea scallops; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; Zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: World Taste Recipe Collection

I absolutely love making Lemon Zest Seared Scallops for a quick and elegant dinner. The bright citrus flavor paired with perfectly seared scallops creates a dish that feels luxurious yet can be whipped up in just a matter of minutes. Each scallop is a burst of savory goodness, and the fresh lemon zest elevates it to a new level of freshness, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Trust me, once you try this, you'll want to share it with friends and family!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-22T11:37:27.881Z

One of the best things about making Lemon Zest Seared Scallops is how quickly it comes together. I remember the first time I tried searing scallops, I was amazed at how just a few simple ingredients like fresh lemon zest and butter could transform these delicate shells into a tantalizing seafood delight. My secret? Ensuring the pan is hot enough for that perfect sear!

During my tests with this recipe, I discovered that patting the scallops dry makes a huge difference in achieving that golden crust. It’s all about the technique! With just a sprinkle of sea salt and a hint of lemon zest, the flavors pop, creating an unforgettable dining experience that impresses every time.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright lemon flavor enhances the sweet scallops.
Quick and easy, ready in just 15 minutes.
Impressive presentation for entertaining.

      

Choosing the Perfect Scallops

When selecting sea scallops, freshness is key. Look for scallops that are firm and have a slight sweet scent of the ocean. Avoid any scallops that have a strong fishy smell or are dull in color. Size matters too; larger scallops (about 10-20 count per pound) provide a meatier texture, ensuring a luscious bite. If you can’t find fresh scallops, frozen ones are a good alternative. Just be sure to thaw them slowly in the refrigerator overnight for optimal texture.

Always pat the scallops dry before cooking. Excess moisture can create steam instead of a sear, preventing that beautifully golden crust we aim for. If your scallops aren't perfectly dry, they'll struggle to achieve that coveted caramelization. Also, feel free to season them generously with salt and pepper; this enhances their natural sweetness and balances the lemony brightness.

Searing Techniques for Perfect Texture

Heat your skillet until it’s hot enough to create a sear but not so hot that the oil smokes. A medium-high setting usually works best—when you add the scallops, the oil should shimmer but not splatter. Adding the scallops to a crowded pan can lead to steaming instead of searing, so work in batches if necessary. You'll know they're ready to flip when they release easily from the pan without tearing.

When it comes to basting with butter and lemon zest, this step is crucial for infusing flavor. As you flip the scallops, tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to scoop the melted butter over them. This technique not only enhances the scallops with richer flavor but also keeps them moist. For an added layer of richness, you can experiment with adding a sprig of thyme or a clove of garlic to the butter as it melts.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your Lemon Zest Seared Scallops:

Ingredients

8 fresh sea scallops
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

With these ingredients in hand, you're ready to cook!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Lemon Zest Seared Scallops:

Prepare the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Heat the Pan

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Sear the Scallops

Add the scallops in a single layer to the hot pan. Sear for about 2-3 minutes without moving them until a golden crust forms.

Add Butter and Lemon Zest

Flip the scallops, add the butter and lemon zest, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, basting with melted butter.

Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Zest Seared Scallops!

Pro Tips

For best results, make sure your scallops are of high quality and avoid overcrowding the pan during searing.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, be cautious—scallops can easily become rubbery when reheated. To preserve their tender texture, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat for just a few minutes, adding a splash of lemon juice or a bit of stock to keep them moist.

Freezing cooked scallops is not ideal, but if you must, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container to avoid freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat as mentioned above to maintain quality.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These Lemon Zest Seared Scallops are fantastic on their own, but there are plenty of ways to enhance your meal. Serve them over a bed of sautéed greens or alongside a light citrus salad for an added crunch and freshness. A drizzle of a light vinaigrette can complement the scallops perfectly. Alternatively, you can pair them with creamy risotto or polenta for a heartier dish.

For variations, consider experimenting with different citrus flavors. Instead of lemon zest, try substituting with lime or orange zest. You can also incorporate a sprinkle of chili flakes for a hint of spice or even a splash of white wine when adding the butter for an extra depth of flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What can I serve with scallops?

These seared scallops pair wonderfully with creamy risotto or a fresh salad.

→ How do I know when scallops are cooked?

Scallops should be slightly translucent in the center and firm to the touch when done.

→ Can I substitute lemon zest?

You can try lime zest or orange zest for a different flavor profile, but lemon zest is recommended for this dish.