Seared Scallops with Asparagus

Name: Seared Scallops with Asparagus
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 8 large sea scallops; 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Lemon wedges for serving; Fresh herbs (like parsley or chives) for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely adore this recipe for seared scallops with asparagus! It’s a quick and elegant dish that always impresses my guests. The combination of perfectly cooked scallops with the vibrant crunch of asparagus creates a delightful contrast that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Plus, it comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. I love to garnish it with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon to enhance the flavors, and it never fails to receive compliments!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-23T21:58:28.497Z

When I first tried searing scallops, I was thrilled by how simple yet rewarding the process was. The key is to start with a dry, well-seasoned scallop and a hot skillet. This allows for that beautiful golden crust that makes all the difference! Paired with fresh asparagus, it elevates the dish even further. I often add garlic for an aromatic finish.

After making this dish several times, I've found that garnishing with a splash of balsamic reduction brings a perfect acidity to balance the richness of the scallops. It’s a technique I learned from a chef friend, and it never fails to impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and elegant meal ready in just 20 minutes
Balance of tender scallops with crispy asparagus
Deliciously enhanced with fresh herbs and lemon

Perfecting the Scallops

Searing scallops might seem tricky, but achieving that perfect golden crust is all about technique. Start with high heat and make sure your skillet is hot before adding the scallops; this helps them sear instead of steam. You can check if the pan is ready by sprinkling a few drops of water; they should sizzle and evaporate immediately. Remember to give your scallops enough space to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the skillet’s temperature and result in uneven cooking.

Timing is crucial when searing scallops. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, ensuring a beautiful caramelization. Look for a golden-brown crust around the edges—this is a good indication they’re ready to flip. If you notice they’re sticking to the pan, give them an extra moment; they’ll release naturally when properly seared. Once the scallops are opaque in the center, they are perfect for plating with the asparagus.

Enhancing Flavor with Garlic and Butter

The addition of garlic and butter towards the end of the scallop cooking process elevates flavor and adds richness to the dish. As the garlic cooks, it becomes sweet and aromatic, infusing the butter with a savory essence. Be careful not to burn the garlic; add it in the last minute to ensure it stays fragrant without turning bitter, which can happen if it’s cooked too long in the hot skillet.

If you're looking to experiment, you might consider infusing the butter with herbs. Fresh thyme or a bit of red pepper flakes can add layers of flavor that complement the scallops beautifully. Just remember to strain out the herbs before pouring over the finished dish to maintain a clean presentation and prevent overly strong flavors.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delightful dish of seared scallops with asparagus.

Ingredients

8 large sea scallops
1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving
Fresh herbs (like parsley or chives) for garnish

Ensure your ingredients are prepped and ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your seared scallops with asparagus.

Prepare the Asparagus

In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the trimmed asparagus and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until tender and slightly charred, seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove the asparagus and set aside.

Sear the Scallops

In the same skillet, increase the heat to high and add the remaining olive oil. When the oil is shimmering, carefully add the scallops, ensuring they don’t touch. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and opaque in the center. Add the butter and garlic during the last minute of cooking.

Combine and Serve

Return the asparagus to the skillet to heat through. Plate the scallops and asparagus together, drizzle with the melted garlic butter, and garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs.

Enjoy the delightful flavors of your homemade seared scallops with asparagus!

Pro Tips

For the best results, make sure your scallops are dry before cooking to achieve a proper sear. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan
this ensures even cooking and golden-brown results.

Asparagus Choices and Preparation

Choosing fresh asparagus is key to this dish. Look for firm stalks with vibrant green color and tight tips. Thin asparagus cooks quickly, making it perfect for this recipe, but if you have thicker spears, just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they reach tenderness while still retaining a delightful crunch. You should aim for them to be vibrant and slightly charred; if you're unsure, start checking for doneness around the 4-minute mark.

If you cannot find fresh asparagus, frozen will work in a pinch. Just ensure you thaw and pat them dry before cooking, as excess moisture can prevent proper sautéing. Cooking times might be a bit different, so be vigilant—aim for that tender, slightly crisp texture.

Serving and Garnishing Tips

For an elegant presentation, stack the scallops over the asparagus, then drizzle the garlic butter sauce artfully around the plate. The drizzle not only adds flavor but creates a visual appeal that makes the dish look professionally crafted. Don’t forget to include lemon wedges; the bright acidity cuts through the richness of the scallops and butter, bringing balance to each bite.

Herbs like fresh parsley or chives add a pop of color and freshness. For those looking for an extra twist, try adding a sprinkle of finely grated lemon zest or even a few capers for a briny kick. This allows guests to customize their experience, bringing a personal touch to an already sophisticated dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking for the best results.

→ What can I substitute for asparagus?

You can use green beans or broccolini, which also pair well with scallops.

→ How can I tell when scallops are done?

They should be opaque in the center and have a slight firmness. Overcooking can make them tough.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While scallops are best served fresh, you can prep all ingredients beforehand and cook shortly before serving.