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Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce Recipe

Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce Recipe

4.9 from 23 reviews

Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce is a quick and flavorful seafood dish featuring tender sea scallops seared to perfection and topped with a bright, tangy sauce made from fresh lime juice, zest, garlic, and cilantro. This recipe is perfect for a vibrant, healthy meal ready in just 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Seafood

  • 1 lb sea scallops, patted dry

Cooking Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Sauce Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

  1. Prepare Scallops: Pat the scallops completely dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper to ensure an even, flavorful sear.
  2. Heat Oil: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering to create a perfect searing surface.
  3. Sear Scallops: Carefully add the scallops in a single layer to avoid overcrowding, then sear for about 2 minutes per side until a golden crust forms.
  4. Set Aside Scallops: Remove the scallops from the skillet and place them on a warm plate to keep them heated while you prepare the sauce.
  5. Sauté Garlic: Reduce the heat to medium and add butter and minced garlic to the same pan, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Add Lime Elements: Stir in fresh lime juice and lime zest, scraping up any browned bits from the pan for extra flavor.
  7. Combine and Serve: Return the scallops to the skillet, spoon the lime butter sauce over them, remove from heat, and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

  • Ensure scallops are completely dry before searing to get a nice crust.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan to allow even searing on each scallop.
  • Use fresh lime juice and zest for the best vibrant flavor.
  • This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or light salads.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: sizzling scallops, lime cilantro sauce, seafood recipe, quick seafood dish, healthy scallops