Seared Scallops in Buttery Herb Sauce
Why These Seared Scallops in Creamy Herb Sauce Are Restaurant-Quality
Perfectly golden-seared scallops nestled in a rich, velvety cream sauce with fresh herbs, sweet onion, and garlic. This dish comes together in under 30 minutes but tastes like it took hours. The key is a good hard sear on the scallops for that beautiful caramelized crust, then letting them finish gently in the sauce. Serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up every last drop.
ESTIMATED NUTRITION (PER SERVING, SERVES 2)
| Calories: 520 | Protein: 32g | Carbs: 12g | Fat: 38g |
Ingredients:
- 1 lb sea scallops
- 3 tbsp butter
- Salt
- 1 onion
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- .5 cup dry white wine
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley
- .25 cup Parmesan cheese
Ingredients are subject to availability at local stores. Unavailable items will be automatically substituted at best-effort.
Directions
- Prep the scallops: Pat the scallops completely dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. This step is crucial for a good sear.
- Sear the scallops: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the scallops in a single layer—don’t overcrowd the pan. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side, until deeply golden and caramelized. Remove the scallops to a plate and set aside.
- Start the sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Add butter to the same pan. Once melted, add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Deglaze and simmer: Pour in the white wine (or broth) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until reduced by half.
- Make it creamy: Stir in the heavy cream and thyme. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 4–5 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finish the dish: Return the seared scallops to the pan, nestling them into the sauce. Cook for 1–2 minutes just to warm them through—be careful not to overcook.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Dry is key: Patting scallops completely dry is the secret to a golden, crispy sear. Any moisture will steam them instead.
- Don’t overcrowd: Give scallops space in the pan so they sear instead of steam. Cook in batches if needed.
- Watch the heat: Scallops cook quickly—2–3 minutes per side is usually perfect. Overcooking makes them rubbery.
- Use the fond: The browned bits left in the pan after searing are packed with flavor—deglaze with wine or broth to capture every bit.
- Get creative with herbs: Try adding a splash of lemon juice, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or swapping thyme for dill or tarragon.
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