Sauteed Scallops With Garlic
Juicy scallops sautéed with garlic and fresh parsley create a flavorful, quick dish perfect for seafood lovers and elegant weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and dry the scallops, then shake them in flour to coat.
- Heat 6 tablespoons of olive oil in a large frying pan.
- Add the coated scallops; cook them quickly, tossing to brown all sides.
- Add finely chopped garlic while cooking and mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Just before removing from heat, add chopped parsley and toss to coat.
- Cook for 5 to 10 minutes until scallops are done.
Tips & Substitutions
For perfectly cooked scallops, make sure they are dry before coating them in flour; excess moisture will prevent browning. If you don't have scallops, shrimp or firm fish fillets could be good substitutes. You can also use garlic powder if fresh garlic isn't available. For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sautéed scallops over a bed of creamy risotto or alongside a fresh salad for a light meal. They pair beautifully with dill shrimp salad or a zesty lemon vinaigrette. For a heartier option, consider serving with garlic bread or roasted vegetables to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover scallops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking, or briefly microwave on low power. Scallops are best eaten fresh, so only store leftovers if necessary.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sauteed Scallops With Garlic contains roughly 336 calories, with 7g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (69% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), and potassium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 581mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen scallops, but ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. This will help achieve that nice sear. If possible, choose dry-packed scallops for better flavor and texture.
What should I serve with sautéed scallops?
Sautéed scallops go well with a variety of sides. Consider pairing them with a light pasta, asparagus, or a simple green salad. For a comforting meal, creamy mashed potatoes or a quinoa salad are excellent options.
How do I know when the scallops are done cooking?
Scallops are done when they are opaque and firm to the touch, usually taking about 5-10 minutes to cook. If they start to become rubbery, they are overcooked, so keep an eye on them while sautéing.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).