Easy Scallops Dinner

Name: Easy Scallops Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz scallops (fresh or thawed); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I love whipping up quick yet elegant meals, and this Easy Scallops Dinner has become one of my absolute favorites. The delicate, sweet flavor of scallops perfectly pairs with a light garlic-lemon sauce, making for a meal that's both impressive and simple to prepare. In just 20 minutes, I can bring restaurant-quality dish to my dinner table. The balance of the ingredients not only enhances the scallops but also creates a delightful experience that’s perfect any night of the week.

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-01-20T00:46:13.591Z

When I first tried cooking scallops at home, I was a bit intimidated. However, I quickly learned that with the right technique, they could be incredibly easy and satisfying to prepare. My favorite approach is to sear them in a hot skillet for just a few minutes, ensuring they develop a beautiful golden crust while remaining tender inside.

One key detail I've discovered is the importance of drying the scallops before cooking. This small step ensures they sear properly and don’t steam in the pan. The result is a dish that brings joy and warmth, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick cooking time that fits into busy schedules.
A vibrant balance of flavors from garlic, lemon, and scallops.
Elevates an ordinary weeknight into a delightful dining experience.

      

Perfecting Your Scallops

To achieve the perfect sear on your scallops, it’s crucial to ensure that they are completely dry before cooking. This step prevents steaming and allows for that coveted golden crust to form. Use a paper towel to pat each scallop carefully, removing any excess moisture. When seasoned with salt and pepper, this simple preparation intensifies the natural sweetness of the scallops, contributing to a more flavorful end product.

Cooking scallops requires attention to time and heat. When you add them to the skillet, listen for a satisfying sizzle; this sound indicates that the oil is hot enough. Aim for a medium-high heat setting, which helps to develop a nice caramelization. Cooking the scallops for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side is ideal—watch for each side to turn golden brown, which signifies they're ready to flip.

The Garlic-Lemon Sauce

The garlic-lemon sauce is a simple yet flavorful enhancer for your scallops. By adding garlic on low heat, you prevent it from burning, which can result in a bitter taste if cooked too quickly. Allow the minced garlic to sauté just until fragrant, usually about one minute. This technique releases its oils and mellows the flavor, creating a harmonious blend when combined with the lemon juice.

Squeezing in fresh lemon juice not only adds brightness to the dish but also helps to balance the richness of the scallops. If you prefer a little variation, consider adding a teaspoon of capers or a splash of white wine to the sauce. These additions can elevate the dish further, introducing new layers of flavor that complement the tender morsels beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

8 oz scallops (fresh or thawed)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Let's get cooking!

Prepare the Scallops

Pat the scallops with a paper towel until they are dry. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Sear the Scallops

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the scallops and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

Add Flavor

Reduce the heat to low, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Then, squeeze the lemon juice into the pan and stir well to combine.

Serve

Transfer the scallops to a plate, drizzle the garlic-lemon sauce over the top, and garnish with chopped parsley.

Enjoy your delicious scallops dinner!

Pro Tips

For a touch of elegance, serve with a side of sautéed vegetables or a light salad.

Serving Suggestions

For a beautiful presentation, serve the scallops on a bed of creamy risotto or alongside lightly sautéed asparagus. The rich flavors of the risotto and the crisp texture of the asparagus create a delightful contrast with the succulent scallops. You could also serve them over a light arugula salad for a refreshing touch.

Drizzling the garlic-lemon sauce over the scallops just before serving not only adds flavor but also enhances the visual appeal. A sprinkle of chopped parsley can brighten the plate, making it as aesthetically pleasing as it is delicious. If you have guests, consider serving with a chilled glass of white wine, which complements the dish perfectly.

Storage and Reheating

Although scallops are best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftover cooked scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, be aware that reheating can make them tough if overcooked. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or butter to maintain moisture, just until heated through.

If you anticipate leftovers, consider cooking only what you need and saving the remaining scallops for another meal to prevent storage issues. Alternatively, you can prepare the garlic-lemon sauce ahead of time and simply sear fresh scallops when ready to eat, allowing for a quick and flavorful meal whenever suits your schedule.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What’s the best way to know when scallops are done?

Scallops are done when they are opaque and firm to the touch, usually taking about 2-3 minutes per side.

→ Can I substitute the garlic with something else?

You can try adding shallots or onions for a different flavor, but garlic pairs best with scallops.

→ What should I serve with scallops?

They pair wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a light meal.