Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce Recipe

Introduction

Sizzling scallops with a zesty lime cilantro sauce bring a fresh and vibrant twist to a classic seafood dish. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests.

Ingredients

• 1 lb sea scallops (dry-packed)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tsp lime zest
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
• 1 tsp honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Pat scallops dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Step 2: Blend lime juice, zest, garlic, yogurt, cilantro, honey, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Set aside.
3. Step 3: Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Step 4: Once hot, add scallops flat-side down. Sear 2 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
5. Step 5: Plate scallops and drizzle generously with lime cilantro sauce.
6. Step 6: Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Make sure scallops are thoroughly dried before searing to achieve a perfect golden crust.
• Use Greek yogurt for a creamy tang, or substitute with sour cream if preferred.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle spicy kick.
• Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.

Storage

Store leftover scallops and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat scallops gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking. The sauce is best enjoyed fresh but can be kept chilled and stirred before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture before cooking to achieve a good sear.

What can I substitute if I don’t have fresh cilantro?

You can replace fresh cilantro with fresh parsley for a milder flavor, though the lime cilantro sauce will have a slightly different taste.

Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 82 reviews

• Author: Simon
• Total Time: 16 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce features tender, seared sea scallops paired with a vibrant and creamy lime cilantro sauce. This quick and easy skillet recipe balances bright citrus flavors with the subtle richness of Greek yogurt, making it a perfect light yet satisfying seafood dish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Seafood

• 1 lb sea scallops (dry-packed)

For Cooking

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter

Sauce

• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tsp lime zest
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
• 1 tsp honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare Scallops: Pat the sea scallops dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Lightly season both sides of the scallops with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
2. Make Lime Cilantro Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine fresh lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, Greek yogurt, chopped cilantro, honey, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. Set the sauce aside to let the flavors meld while you cook the scallops.
3. Heat Skillet: Place a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil and butter. Heat until the butter melts and begins to sizzle, creating a hot surface perfect for searing.
4. Sear Scallops: Once the skillet is hot, carefully add the scallops, placing them flat side down. Sear for about 2 minutes without moving them to develop a golden crust. Flip the scallops and sear the other side for another 2 minutes until cooked through and opaque in the center.
5. Plate and Serve: Remove scallops from the skillet and arrange them on a serving plate. Drizzle the prepared lime cilantro sauce generously over the scallops.
6. Garnish: Garnish the dish with additional fresh cilantro sprigs and lime wedges for an extra burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately while hot and sizzling.

Notes

• Dry-packed scallops yield a better sear and flavor compared to wet-packed ones.
• If you prefer a tangier sauce, adjust lime juice quantity to taste.
• For a dairy-free option, substitute Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt.
• Do not overcrowd the skillet when searing scallops to ensure even browning.
• Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or light salad for a complete meal.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 minutes
• Category: Seafood
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: scallops, seafood recipe, lime cilantro sauce, seared scallops, quick seafood dish, skillet scallops, easy dinner