Sizzling scallops with zesty lime cilantro sauce

🦪🔥 Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime–Cilantro Sauce

Tender, golden-seared scallops paired with a bright, fresh sauce—quick, elegant, and full of flavor.

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Ingredients (4 servings)

Scallops

• 450 g (1 lb) sea scallops
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• Salt & black pepper to taste

Zesty Lime–Cilantro Sauce

• Zest of 1 lime
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• Salt to taste
• Optional: pinch of chili flakes

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Instructions

1. Prep scallops:
   • Pat scallops completely dry with paper towels.
   • Season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Sear scallops:
   • Heat a skillet over medium-high until very hot.
   • Add olive oil and butter.
   • Place scallops in the pan without crowding.
   • Sear 1½–2 minutes per side until golden and just opaque.
   • Remove from heat immediately.
3. Make sauce:
   • In a small bowl, whisk lime zest, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cilantro, salt, and chili flakes (if using).
4. Serve sizzling:
   • Spoon lime–cilantro sauce over hot scallops just before serving.

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Serving Ideas

• Serve over rice, quinoa, or creamy mashed potatoes
• Pair with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad
• Finish with extra lime wedges for brightness 🍋

Tips

• Do not overcook scallops—they should be tender, not rubbery.
• Use a cast-iron or stainless-steel pan for the best sear.
• If scallops release liquid, the pan wasn’t hot enough—wait until sizzling.

If you want, I can also give a buttery garlic-lime version or a taco-style scallop recipe 🌮