Description
Seared scallops with cilantro lime sauce is a restaurant-quality dish that’s easy to make at home! These buttery scallops are perfectly seared to a golden-brown crust and paired with a zesty, creamy sauce bursting with fresh cilantro and lime. Ready in under 30 minutes, this quick and elegant recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Scallops:
- 8 large sea scallops
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 lime, juiced
For the Cilantro Lime Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Scallops – Pat scallops dry with paper towels. Toss them with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Let marinate for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.
- Sear the Scallops – Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the scallops in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden-brown and cooked through. Remove from heat.
- Make the Cilantro Lime Sauce – In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using).
- Serve – Arrange the seared scallops on plates. Drizzle with cilantro lime sauce and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
Notes
- For a perfect sear, make sure the scallops are completely dry before cooking.
- Adjust spice level by adding or reducing cayenne pepper.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: American, Seafood
