Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce

Recipe Card

Quick Description:
Golden-seared scallops drizzled with a fresh, citrusy lime-cilantro sauce — a light, restaurant-quality dish that comes together in under 20 minutes!

Servings & Timing:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6–8 minutes
Total Time: ~18 minutes
Yield: 2–3 servings

Dietary Badges:

🥗 Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly
🐟 High-Protein
🌿 Gluten-Free

Ingredients (Checklist Style):

1 lb sea scallops, patted dry
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
Salt & pepper, to taste
¼ cup fresh lime juice
1 tbsp lime zest
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced

Instructions (Concise & Numbered):

Prepare the Scallops
- Pat scallops dry thoroughly with paper towels.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Sear the Scallops
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high.
- Once hot and foamy, add scallops in a single layer (don’t overcrowd).
- Cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and just opaque. Remove and set aside.
Make the Sauce
- Lower heat to medium. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds.
- Stir in lime juice and zest, scraping up browned bits.
- Simmer 1–2 minutes until slightly reduced. Remove from heat, stir in cilantro.
Serve
- Spoon sauce over scallops.
- Pair with rice, quinoa, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad.

🌟 Introduction

This scallop recipe is all about contrast — buttery seared scallops meet the bright, zesty punch of lime and cilantro. It’s fast enough for a weeknight but elegant enough to impress guests. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you’ll have a dish that feels like fine dining at home.

🔪 Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

Scallops: Use dry-packed scallops (not soaked in preservatives) for the best sear.
Butter & Olive Oil: Butter adds richness, olive oil prevents burning.
Lime Juice & Zest: Use fresh — bottled lime juice won’t give the same flavor pop.
Cilantro: If you’re not a cilantro fan, swap with parsley or basil.

🍴 Variations & Serving Ideas

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Creamy Twist: Stir in 2 tbsp heavy cream at the end for a richer sauce.
Serving Ideas:
- With garlic butter rice or cauliflower rice
- Over quinoa with roasted veggies
- Alongside a crisp cucumber-avocado salad

🥡 Storage & Make-Ahead

Best Fresh: Scallops taste best right after cooking.
Leftovers: Store in fridge up to 2 days; reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or butter.
Freezer: Not recommended — scallops lose texture once frozen and reheated.

📊 Nutrition (Per Serving, 3 servings)

Calories: ~230 kcal
Protein: 25 g
Fat: 13 g
Carbs: 4 g

❓ FAQs

Q: How do I know when scallops are done?
A: They should be golden on the outside and just opaque in the center. Overcooking makes them rubbery.

Q: Can I grill scallops instead?
A: Yes! Skewer them, grill 2–3 minutes per side, then drizzle with the lime-cilantro sauce.

Q: What wine pairs best with this dish?
A: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the citrusy sauce perfectly.

✨ With a quick sear and a zesty sauce, these Sizzling Scallops with Lime & Cilantro turn any dinner into a special occasion — no restaurant required.

Author
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Rabia

Chef & Food Blogger at menuatthetable.com

Rabia has been a chef in Dubai for over eight years and loves exploring different types of food. Through the blog Menu at the Table, Rabia shares the best places to eat in Dubai for every cuisine. Whether you want street food or a fancy restaurant, Rabia helps you find the perfect spot to enjoy delicious meals.