Herb-Infused Seared Scallops
Delight in the exquisite flavors of Herb-Infused Seared Scallops—a quick yet luxurious appetizer perfect for any occasion. This recipe brings simplicity to gourmet eating, allowing the natural sweetness of fresh scallops to shine through. Sautéed in olive oil and accompanied by a delicious white wine and citrus reduction, these scallops are garnished with a blend of aromatic fresh herbs, making them an elegant starter that’s sure to impress your guests. Perfect for dinner parties or romantic evenings, this dish embodies the essence of fine dining at home.
2
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
scallops
12 (on the shell (if possible), removed from shell)
olive oil
1 tablespoon (none)
fresh herbs
2 tablespoons (finely chopped (suggestions: parsley, lemon thyme, or chives))
white wine
1/4 cup (none)
lemon juice
2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
salt
to taste (freshly ground)
pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
Instructions
1
Begin by carefully removing the scallops from their shells, if they are still attached. Rinse and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2
Heat the olive oil in a medium-sized frying pan over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
3
Add the scallops to the pan in a single layer, cooking for about 2 minutes on one side until they develop a golden crust.
4
Gently flip the scallops and cook for an additional minute on the other side. Remove the scallops from the pan and return them to the shells for presentation.
5
In the same pan, pour in the white wine and lemon juice. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3 minutes or until it reduces by half.
6
Stir in the fresh herbs and season with salt and pepper. Drizzle a generous amount of the sauce over each scallop, ensuring an even distribution of herbs.
7
Serve warm and enjoy your gourmet appetizer.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Herb-Infused Seared Scallops?
Herb-Infused Seared Scallops are a quick yet luxurious gourmet appetizer featuring scallops sautéed in olive oil with a white wine and citrus reduction, garnished with fresh herbs.
How many scallops are needed for this recipe?
You will need 12 scallops, preferably on the shell.
How should I prepare the scallops before cooking?
Remove them from their shells if attached, rinse them, and then pat them completely dry with a paper towel.
What type of oil is used for searing?
One tablespoon of olive oil is used to sear the scallops.
How long do I cook the first side of the scallops?
Cook the scallops for about 2 minutes on the first side until they develop a golden crust.
How long should I cook the second side of the scallops?
After flipping, cook the scallops for an additional 1 minute.
What ingredients make up the sauce reduction?
The sauce is made from 1/4 cup of white wine and 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Which fresh herbs are recommended for this dish?
Finely chopped parsley, lemon thyme, or chives are suggested.
How much fresh herbs should I use?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh herbs.
How long does the sauce need to simmer?
Simmer the sauce for about 3 minutes or until it has reduced by half.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed for 2 servings.
What should the pan look like before adding the scallops?
The pan should be heated over medium-high heat until the olive oil shimmers.
Do I need to clean the pan before making the sauce?
No, you should use the same pan to scrape any browned bits for extra flavor.
How is the final dish seasoned?
The dish is seasoned with salt and pepper to taste, preferably freshly ground.
Is this a fast recipe to make?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick recipe suitable for elegant starters.
What is the best way to present the scallops?
For the best presentation, return the seared scallops to their shells before drizzling the sauce over them.
What type of cuisine does this dish represent?
This recipe is categorized under New Zealand cuisine.
What is the primary protein in this recipe?
The primary protein is scallops.
What kind of wine should I use?
The recipe specifies using white wine.
When should I add the herbs?
Stir in the fresh herbs after the sauce has finished reducing.
Is this recipe good for a romantic dinner?
Yes, it is specifically tagged as being perfect for romantic dinners and dinner parties.
How many ingredients are required in total?
There are 7 main ingredients: scallops, olive oil, fresh herbs, white wine, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
What should the texture of the seared scallop be?
The scallop should have a golden crust on the outside while remaining tender.
How should I apply the sauce?
Drizzle a generous amount of the sauce over each scallop, ensuring an even distribution of the herbs.
Should the lemon juice be fresh?
Yes, the recipe specifically recommends using 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Is this dish served hot or cold?
The scallops should be served warm.
What temperature should I use for searing?
Medium-high heat is recommended for the frying pan.
Can this be served as a main course?
While it is described as an appetizer and elegant starter, it could be adapted depending on the menu.
How much salt and pepper should I use?
Salt and pepper should be added according to your personal taste.
Why do I need to pat the scallops dry?
Patting them dry ensures that they sear properly and develop a golden crust rather than steaming.