Citrus Scallops are a bright, elegant dish that combines the delicate, buttery flavor of seared scallops with the zesty tang of citrus. The scallops are cooked to golden perfection, then drizzled with a light citrus sauce made from fresh orange and lemon juice, which adds a refreshing acidity that complements the natural sweetness of the scallops. This quick and flavorful dish is perfect for a dinner party or a special weeknight meal, offering a restaurant-quality experience with minimal effort. Serve it alongside a simple salad, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete, sophisticated meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb sea scallops, patted dry
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Scallops:
- Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Sear the Scallops:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the scallops in a single layer (do not overcrowd the pan) and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Citrus Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add butter, orange juice, lemon juice, orange zest, and lemon zest. Stir the sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Serve:
- Return the scallops to the skillet and spoon the citrus sauce over them. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve immediately.
Citrus Scallops are a delightful combination of rich, tender scallops and vibrant citrus flavors, making this dish both refreshing and indulgent—a perfect seafood treat!
