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How To Cook Scallops 🍣

Cast Iron Keto
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5 from 4 votes

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Today, we're going to learn how to cook scallops! These juicy sea scallops get a golden crust when we sear them, making them super tasty. In just 10 minutes, you can have a yummy dish ready. This quick recipe is great for busy days when you want something tasty without too much work. So, gather your ingredients, and let's make these awesome scallops!

raw scallops seasoned with salt and pepper

Today, we’re talking about how to cook scallops in partnership with DeLallo Food’s “How To Month”!

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Preparation and cooking overview

Ready to pan-sear some scallops? It's incredibly simple! First, pat the scallops dry on a baking sheet using paper towels, and season them with salt and pepper. Then, cook them in a hot cast-iron skillet with some olive oil until they form a golden crust. The best part? It all takes just 10 minutes from start to finish!

Chef's note

Going keto doesn't mean sacrificing flavor or avoiding culinary adventures. Actually, it unveils a whole new world of tasty options! Looking for a zesty twist? Add some lemon zest to your seared scallops. For extra flair, consider using herb-infused oils, such as those flavored with rosemary or thyme.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 Minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Recipe Makes 6 Servings

For more inspiration check out our Seafood recipe.

🍣 Ingredients for this sea scallops recipe

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1.5 pounds dry sea scallops
  • Sea salt
  • Freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Ingredient substitutions

For a keto-friendly twist on this scallops recipe, consider these substitutions:

  • Olive oil: Swap for coconut oil if you fancy a change. It gives a delightful flavor that's great with seafood and is keto-approved.
  • Black pepper: For a softer pepper flavor, try white pepper as a milder alternative to black pepper.
  • Sea salt: Opt for Himalayan pink salt or a seasoned salt blend to enhance the dish's flavor without straying from keto.

Additional ingredients

To further enhance the flavor of your scallops, consider these optional ingredients:

  • Garlic: A bit of minced garlic adds aromatic richness, turning the scallops even more irresistible.
  • Fresh herbs: Sprinkle on some chopped parsley or cilantro before serving for added freshness and a pop of color.
  • Ginger: A touch of minced ginger gives an extra flavor to the scallops.
  • Shallots: Add in some chopped shallots for a subtle, onion-like flavor that pairs wonderfully with the scallops.
  • Chili flakes: If you're a fan of heat, a dash of chili flakes can add an exhilarating kick to your scallops.

Cooking tools required

To make this cast iron scallops recipe, you'll need the following tools:

  • Cast-iron skillet
  • Baking sheet
  • Paper towels
  • Spatula
  • Spoon
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Tools substitute options

  • Cast-iron skillet: No cast-iron skillet on hand? A non-stick skillet or pan will do the trick. Ensure it's hot enough before placing the scallops.
  • Baking sheet: Instead of a baking sheet, spread out the scallops on a clean kitchen towel or stack several paper towels atop a regular plate.
  • Spatula: Tongs are a handy alternative to a spatula. Use them to delicately flip the scallops while searing.

How to make Cast Iron Scallops: step-by-step guide

Cooking methods

  • Pan-searing

Preparation steps

  1. Gather all the ingredients.
  2. Prepare the cooking area.

Cooking instructions

  1. Lay the scallops on a paper towel-covered baking sheet and let them air dry for about 10 minutes at room temperature. Gently press another paper towel on top to absorb any extra moisture.
  2. Sprinkle a good amount of salt and pepper over the scallops.
  3. In a cast-iron skillet, warm up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over high heat until it starts to smoke. Carefully place the scallops in the skillet, ensuring they don't overlap, and sear for 1 ½ – 2 minutes or until a rich golden crust appears.
  4. Flip and sear for another minute. Add in the butter and lemon slices, using a spoon to coat the scallops with the sauce. Serve immediately.
Cooked scallops in pan with lemon

Chef's pro tip

For top-notch scallops, opt for dry over wet ones. Dry scallops are more flavorful and yield a softer texture when cooked. You can distinguish them by color: wet scallops are often bright white, while dry ones may have a slight orange or pink hue. It's best to cook scallops shortly after purchasing, ideally the same day or the next. Before you start cooking, make sure to remove the small, tough pieces known as tendons. And because scallops cook so fast, make them the final step in your meal preparation.

What to serve with grilled scallops?

For a perfect meal, pair your grilled scallops with one of these tasty keto-friendly sides:

  • Cauliflower Rice: The low-carb alternative to rice soaks up the scallop flavors, making your meal even yummier.
  • Keto Creamed Spinach: Not only does this add a pop of green to your plate, but its rich taste also complements the scallops' flavors.
  • Mediterranean Asparagus: This tender veggie is a no-fail partner for sea scallops.
  • Keto Arugula Salad: Try a crisp Keto Arugula Salad with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette dressing. It's the perfect refreshing side to balance out your dish.

How to make it healthier

Want a healthier take on this sea scallops recipe? Here's how:

  • Veggie boost: Increase the health factor with more veggies on the side. Think colorful choices like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli to pack in more nutrients.

Time-saving tips

Want to prepare this scallop dish faster? Here's how:

  • Use a bigger skillet: A larger skillet means more scallops cooked at once. Fewer batches, faster cooking.

What can I prepare ahead of time?

  • Prepare the scallops: Dry and season your scallops ahead. Cover them in the fridge until it's time to cook.
  • Lemon zest prep: Planning on using lemon zest? Grate it early and store it in a sealed container. When it's time, sprinkle and serve!

Storage and reheating instructions

Storage tips

  • Refrigerator: Cool the scallops and put them in a tight-sealed container. They'll be good for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Scallops taste best fresh. If freezing is necessary, do it within a day of cooking. Remember, when thawed, they might not taste or feel the same.

Reheating best practices

  • Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish. Warm at half-power for 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.
  • Oven Method: Heat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Put the scallops in a dish and cover with foil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
  • On the Stove: Use a non-stick or cast-iron pan on low heat. Add a bit of water or broth and cover. Warm the scallops, stirring now and then.

Recipe wrap-up and conclusion

If you've always wondered How to Cook Scallops, now you have the answer! With their irresistible golden crust and succulent inside, scallops are a delightful treat for your palate. Perfect for both a casual dinner or a special occasion, these scallops are a standout in the world of keto seafood. So, ready your skillet and embark on a memorable culinary adventure!

Frequently asked questions

When wondering how long to cook scallops, remember that for medium-sized sea scallops, it usually takes 1 ½ - 2 minutes on each side to get that desired golden-brown crust. Ensure you only flip them once for the best results.

To learn how to cook scallops in a pan, first, heat a cast iron skillet on high until it's smoking. Add your choice of oil or butter. Once hot, lay the seasoned scallops in a single layer. Sear each side for 1 ½ - 2 minutes until they're golden brown.

If you're wondering how to season scallops, a simple and effective approach is to sprinkle them generously with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. This enhances their natural sweetness and complements their tender texture.

When learning how to cook scallops in cast iron, start by preheating the skillet on high. Once hot, add oil or butter and wait for it to smoke. Place the scallops in and sear for 1 ½ - 2 minutes on each side until they achieve a golden-brown crust. Enjoy your perfectly cooked cast iron scallops!

You can cook scallops in either oil or butter, depending on your preference. Both options add delicious flavor; butter imparts a rich taste, while oil brings a lighter touch.

It's best not to wash scallops before cooking, as they are delicate and can easily lose flavor. Simply follow the preparation steps of drying and seasoning.

Scallops are done when they turn opaque and develop a golden-brown crust on both sides, typically taking 1 ½ - 2 minutes per side during searing.

The best way to cook scallops involves drying them first on a paper towel-lined baking sheet. Season generously with salt and pepper. In a preheated cast iron skillet with olive oil, sear the scallops for 1 ½ - 2 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust.

📖 Recipe

how to cook scallops

How to Cook Scallops

This guide will show you how to easily cook scallops at home lending perfect results, every time.
5 from 4 votes
Print Rate Pin Recipe
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: how-to, seafood, seared scallops, tutorial
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 136kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1.5 lbs dry sea scallops
  • Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Lay the scallops on a paper towel-covered baking sheet and let them air dry for about 10 minutes at room temperature. Gently press another paper towel on top to absorb any extra moisture.
  • Sprinkle a good amount of salt and pepper over the scallops.
  • In a cast-iron skillet, warm up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over high heat until it starts to smoke. Carefully place the scallops in the skillet, ensuring they don't overlap, and sear for 1 ½ – 2 minutes or until a rich golden crust appears.
  • Flip and sear for another minute. Add in the butter and lemon slices, using a spoon to coat the scallops with the sauce. Serve immediately.

Video

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
How to Cook Scallops
Amount Per Serving
Calories 136 Calories from Fat 63
% Daily Value*
Fat 7g11%
Saturated Fat 2g13%
Cholesterol 32mg11%
Sodium 445mg19%
Potassium 232mg7%
Carbohydrates 4g1%
Sugar 1g1%
Protein 14g28%
Vitamin A 58IU1%
Calcium 7mg1%
Iron 1mg6%
*

Nutritional values are estimates only and do not include carbs from sugar alcohols.

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