Seared Scallops with Mango Salsa

Name: Seared Scallops with Mango Salsa
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound scallops; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 ripe mango, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1 jalapeño, minced; Juice of 1 lime; Fresh cilantro, chopped

Highlighted under: International Dish Inspirations

I absolutely love making Seared Scallops with Mango Salsa for special occasions and cozy dinners alike. The contrast between the tender, buttery scallops and the bright, zesty mango salsa never fails to impress. This dish is not only stunning but also surprisingly easy to prepare. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you'll create a vibrant, flavorful meal that showcases the best of seafood and tropical fruits. Trust me, this is a recipe that will elevate any dining experience.

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-01-22T15:06:29.483Z

When I first experimented with seared scallops, I was surprised at how quickly they cook and how easily they develop a rich, golden crust. This method works wonderfully because it involves a hot pan and a touch of patience. As the scallops sizzle, I prepare the mango salsa, balancing sweet and spicy flavors. It's a dance between the scallops and salsa that never fails to amaze me!

In my culinary journey, I've learned that the key to perfect scallops is ensuring they are dry before hitting the pan. This allows for that beautiful sear without steaming. A generous squeeze of lime over the salsa brightens up everything and adds that refreshing touch that really ties the dish together.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect balance of savory scallops and sweet mango salsa
Quick cooking time means you can have a gourmet meal in minutes
Versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer or main course

Choosing the Perfect Scallops

When selecting scallops, look for those that are fresh and have a slightly sweet aroma. Dry-packed scallops are preferable as they haven’t been treated with preservatives, which can affect their flavor and searing capability. If you see scallops that are wet or sitting in a water solution, these have likely been soaked, which can lead to a rubbery texture when cooked. For optimal results, aim for scallops that are about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter to ensure even cooking.

Patting the scallops dry before seasoning and cooking is critical for achieving a beautiful golden crust. Excess moisture on the surface will cause them to steam rather than sear. When you place the scallops in a hot skillet, you should hear a satisfying sizzle. This sound indicates that the scallops are searing properly. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook them in batches if necessary to maintain that ideal sear.

Elevating Mango Salsa

Mango salsa is incredibly versatile and can be adjusted to match your taste preferences. If you prefer a sweeter salsa, opt for a more ripe mango; conversely, a firmer mango will lend a tangier flavor. Additionally, feel free to experiment with herbs like mint or basil for an unexpected twist. For a bit more heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to elevate the spice level without overpowering the other flavors.

Allowing the salsa to rest for a few minutes after mixing helps the flavors meld beautifully. If you’re preparing ahead of time, make the salsa up to two hours in advance and refrigerate it. This resting period not only enhances the flavor but also allows the diced ingredients to soften slightly, which can improve the texture when served atop the seared scallops.

Ingredients

For the Scallops

1 pound scallops
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mango Salsa

1 ripe mango, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1 jalapeño, minced
Juice of 1 lime
Fresh cilantro, chopped

Preparation

Steps

Prepare the Salsa

In a mixing bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro. Season with salt to taste. Set aside to allow the flavors to marry.

Sear the Scallops

Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the scallops and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

Serve

Plate the seared scallops and top generously with mango salsa. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

Make sure your scallops are dry before cooking to achieve the best sear. A hot pan is essential for that perfect crust!

Serving Suggestions

Seared scallops with mango salsa shine as both an appetizer and a main dish. For an appetizer, serve the scallops on small plates with a generous spoonful of mango salsa on top, garnished with lime wedges for a fresh touch. If you’re serving it as a main course, consider pairing it with a delicate side of coconut rice or a fresh green salad to complement the tropical flavors of the dish.

To make this dish even more delightful, consider drizzling a balsamic reduction or a lime vinaigrette around the plate for a refined presentation. Not only does it add a burst of flavor, but it also enhances the visual appeal, making it perfect for entertaining guests.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

While fresh scallops are best cooked just before serving, you can make your mango salsa ahead of time, as mentioned previously. If you're looking for a quick meal, the salsa can last up to three days in the fridge, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights. Just be aware that the onions may become sharper in flavor over time, so adjust the quantity based on how long you plan to store it.

If you have leftover cooked scallops, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, do so gently in a non-stick skillet over low heat to avoid toughening them further. Adding a splash of fresh lime juice during reheating can help revive some of the flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a light salad to round out the meal.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ How do I know when my scallops are cooked?

They should be opaque and firm to the touch. Overcooking makes them tough, so keep a close eye!