Seared Scallops with Asparagus

Name: Seared Scallops with Asparagus
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 8 large sea scallops; 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed; 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: International Dish Inspirations

I absolutely love preparing Seared Scallops with Asparagus for a special dinner. The combination of sweet, tender scallops with fresh, crisp asparagus creates a dish that feels elegant yet is surprisingly easy to make. Every time I serve this dish, it amazes me how quickly the scallops cook and how their delicate flavor pairs perfectly with the earthy taste of asparagus. It's a delightful experience that showcases the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients coming together in a delicious way.

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:10:28.191Z

When I first made seared scallops, I was truly amazed by how quickly they come together. It’s a dish that feels luxurious but can easily be whipped up on a weeknight. I learned the key to perfect scallops is ensuring they are completely dry before hitting the pan; this helps achieve that beautiful golden crust. As I plated the dish, the visual appeal was enhanced by vibrant green asparagus, and I couldn’t wait to dig in.

In my experience, serving these scallops with a light lemon butter sauce elevates the flavors even more. I like to finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, which not only boosts flavor but adds an inviting aroma as well. My friends and family always rave about it, and it’s become a go-to in my kitchen for impressing guests!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Perfectly seared scallops with a crispy, golden crust
Fresh asparagus that adds a vibrant crunch
A quick and elegant dish for entertaining
Light lemon butter sauce that ties everything together

Understanding Scallops

Choosing the right scallops is crucial for this dish. Large sea scallops are preferred for their sweet flavor and tender texture. When selecting scallops, look for ones that are moist but not slimy, with a slightly translucent appearance. If using frozen scallops, ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry; excess moisture can prevent proper searing.

The key to achieving the perfect sear lies in maintaining high heat. Preheat your skillet until hot, which should take about 2-3 minutes on medium-high heat. Do not overcrowd the pan; searing too many scallops at once lowers the temperature and leads to steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches for the best results.

The Role of Asparagus

When preparing the asparagus, use fresh, bright green spears to ensure optimal crunch and flavor. Trim the woody ends to allow for even cooking; a good guideline is to cut about 1-2 inches from the bottom. The blanching technique used in this recipe not only enhances the vibrant color but also preserves the nutritional value of the asparagus.

After blanching, shocking the asparagus in ice water is essential. This step stops the cooking process, ensuring that the asparagus remains crisp rather than becoming mushy. For added flavor, consider roasting the asparagus with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkling of salt and pepper instead of blanching.

Elevating the Dish

This dish can easily be elevated with additional flavors. Consider incorporating a splash of white wine into the lemon butter sauce for a deeper taste profile. A hint of red pepper flakes can also provide a subtle heat that complements the sweetness of the scallops.

For garnishing, aside from fresh parsley, try using microgreens or lemon zest to add brightness and visual appeal. Pair the dish with a light salad or over a bed of fluffy quinoa to provide a beautiful contrast of textures and to create a more substantial meal.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Seared Scallops with Asparagus

Ingredients

8 large sea scallops
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

These ingredients come together to create a beautiful dish that's sure to impress!

Instructions

Steps to Cook Seared Scallops with Asparagus

Prepare the Asparagus

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus and cook for about 3 minutes until just tender. Drain and place the asparagus in an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Sear the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with paper towels, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the scallops and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the lemon juice and stir to combine.

Combine and Serve

Return the scallops to the skillet, tossing gently in the lemon butter sauce. Plate the asparagus and top with the scallops. Drizzle additional sauce over the top and garnish with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your beautifully plated Seared Scallops with Asparagus!

Pro Tips

Always ensure your scallops are completely dry to achieve the perfect sear. If scallops are overcrowded in the pan, they will steam instead of sear, so cook them in batches if necessary.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the scallops and asparagus separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the asparagus in a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil, and re-sear the scallops on medium heat for just 1-2 minutes, being careful not to overcook them.

Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this can lead to rubbery scallops. Instead, warming them slowly on the stove will preserve their delicate texture.

Dietary Modifications

For gluten-free and dairy-free variations, simply swap the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter substitute or olive oil while preparing the sauce. This maintains the richness while catering to dietary restrictions.

If you're looking to make this recipe lower in calories, reduce the amount of butter used in the sauce and increase the lemon juice. This will still provide a flavorful finish without additional calories.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your dining experience, serve the Seared Scallops with Asparagus alongside a light white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc. This pairing accentuates the sweetness of the scallops and the freshness of the asparagus.

Consider serving the dish on a warm plate to keep it at the optimal temperature while dining. You can also prepare a simple side salad dressed with a citrus vinaigrette to complement the herbs and lemon flavors in this dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, but ensure they are thawed completely and patted dry before cooking.

→ What can I serve with scallops?

These scallops pair beautifully with rice, quinoa, or a light salad.

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Leftover scallops can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I substitute asparagus with another vegetable?

Definitely! Broccoli or green beans would be excellent alternatives.