I learned to cook Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce. when I was trying to impress my mom after a long shift. I had butter, a lime, some garlic, and a handful of scallops. I didn’t have time for fancy—but I knew how to sear. That night, I spooned my first lime-cilantro sauce over hot golden scallops and watched her close her eyes after one bite. “That’s real cooking,” she said.
If you love bold dinners, pair it with Avocado Mozzarella and Tomato Grilled Cheese or serve with a chilled Ocean Blue Piña Colada on the side.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
How to Make Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce
This dish is all about contrast—crispy, buttery scallops and a punchy, fresh sauce.
Ingredients Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce.
For the Scallops:
- 1 lb sea scallops, patted dry
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper
For the Lime Cilantro Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pro Tip: Pat scallops dry with paper towels. Moisture = steam, not sear.
Instructions Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce
- Prep the Scallops:
Dry scallops thoroughly. Season both sides with salt and pepper. - Sear:
Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add scallops in a single layer. Sear 2–3 minutes per side until golden with a caramelized crust. Don’t overcrowd.
- Make the Sauce:
While scallops cook, whisk lime juice, zest, cilantro, garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Serve Immediately:
Plate scallops and spoon sauce over top. Serve hot for best texture.
Want a bold side? Pair it with the Delicious Lasagna Baked Potato, or go fresh with Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad.Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce.
Pro Tips for Perfect Scallops & Easy Variations
Get the Golden Sear
If your scallops don’t sizzle, your pan’s not hot enough. Wait until the oil shimmers, then drop them in and don’t touch. Let that crust form. Use a mix of oil and butter for flavor and browning.
Also, never overcrowd steam is the enemy. Sear in batches if needed. This makes all the difference, just like in our Best Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings, where spacing gives you that golden edge.Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce.
Sauce Twists & Pairing Ideas
No lime? Swap in lemon or even orange zest for a softer citrus finish. Want creaminess? Stir a tablespoon of Greek yogurt into the sauce. Add a dash of chili flakes for heat.
Serve scallops on warm mashed potatoes, crisp rice cakes, or even inside tacos. Or try them with a side like our Avocado Mozzarella and Tomato Grilled Cheese for a surf-and-toast combo.Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce.
For more recipes follow me in pinterest and Facebook
FAQs About Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce
How do I get a perfect sear on scallops?
Dry them very well, season simply, and sear in a hot pan with oil and butter. Don’t flip too early—let them cook 2–3 minutes untouched per side.
Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes. Just thaw them completely in the fridge and pat them bone dry before searing. Too much moisture will ruin the sear.
What can I serve with scallops and lime cilantro sauce?
Try creamy mashed potatoes, crisp roasted veggies, or even spoon them over pasta. A side like our Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad makes it a light, elegant plate.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes. The lime cilantro sauce can be made a few hours early. Store it in the fridge and whisk again before serving to refresh the flavor.
Conclusion
These Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce. are fast, elegant, and full of flavor. With crispy edges, buttery texture, and a fresh citrus-herb finish, they’re just the kind of recipe you can cook in minutes—but remember forever.Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce.
It’s dinner that says, “Yes, I made that.” And yes, it only took 15 minutes.
Print
Sizzling Scallops with Zesty Lime Cilantro Sauce – Quick & Elegant
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 5
- Total Time: 15
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: American
Description
These sizzling scallops are golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and topped with a fresh, citrusy lime cilantro sauce. A fast and elegant dinner idea.
Ingredients
For the Scallops:
1 lb sea scallops, patted dry
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Lime Cilantro Sauce:
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon lime zest
¼ cup fresh chopped cilantro
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Dry scallops thoroughly and season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add scallops in a single layer and sear 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
4. While scallops cook, whisk lime juice, zest, cilantro, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Plate scallops and drizzle with the lime cilantro sauce.
6. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
Make sure scallops are completely dry for best browning. You can prep the sauce ahead of time and store in the fridge.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: sizzling scallops, lime cilantro sauce, seared scallops, seafood dinner
