Lemon Dill Seared Scallops

Name: Lemon Dill Seared Scallops
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 pound large sea scallops, patted dry; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

Highlighted under: Exotic Global Recipes

I absolutely love making lemon dill seared scallops for a quick yet elegant dinner. The blend of fresh lemon juice and fragrant dill enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops, creating a dish that's both refreshing and satisfying. It takes just a few minutes to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions. I appreciate how simple ingredients can come together to produce such a gourmet experience. Each seared scallop reflects a delicious flavor and texture that I enjoy serving with a side of seasonal vegetables.

Created by

Andrea

Last updated on 2026-01-22T12:54:30.188Z

When I first discovered how to perfectly sear scallops, I couldn’t believe the difference that technique made. It's all in the timing; I learned that allowing the scallops to rest brings out their tender texture. The key is to get the skillet hot enough, so that searing them creates a beautiful golden crust while keeping the insides juicy. Pairing them with a lemon dill sauce brightens up the entire dish, making it a crowd-pleaser every time I serve it.

Cooking with fresh herbs like dill has transformed my palate and opened my mind to new flavor combinations. I remember the first time I zested a lemon right over the dish—it elevated the taste beyond what I expected. It’s a little detail but makes all the difference, balancing the richness of the scallops with vibrant citrus notes, and I can't recommend it enough for this recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The delightful brightness from fresh lemon that complements the sweet scallops
Effortless preparation that impresses guests without stressing the cook
A dish that captures the essence of simple, high-quality ingredients

Understanding Scallops

Choosing good quality scallops is essential for this dish. Look for large sea scallops that are dry and firm, as they have a sweet, briny flavor and sear beautifully. Fresh scallops can often be found at seafood markets, and they should smell like the ocean, not fishy. If you only have access to wet scallops, which have been soaked in a preservative solution, be sure to pat them dry thoroughly before cooking. This helps achieve that coveted golden crust.

Scallops cook quickly, so preparation is key. When you sear scallops, ensure they're spaced apart in the skillet to promote even cooking. Overcrowding the pan traps steam and dilutes the flavor. You want each scallop to develop a beautiful caramelized exterior while remaining tender on the inside. If they’re touching, you might end up with steamed scallops instead of seared ones, which would alter the texture significantly.

Balancing Flavors

The combination of lemon and dill isn't just a delightful pairing; it plays a crucial role in balancing the richness of the scallops. The acidity from the lemon brightens the dish and cuts through the buttery sauce, creating a harmonious flavor profile. For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter mixture or substituting fresh basil for dill, giving the dish a unique twist without compromising its freshness.

When it comes to the searing process, timing is everything. Each side of the scallop needs about 2-3 minutes of cook time on high heat. Watch for the edges to turn golden and crisp, signaling that it's time to flip. Under-cooked scallops will be translucent in the center, while overcooked ones become rubbery—keep a close eye to achieve that perfect tender texture.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delightful Lemon Dill Seared Scallops:

Ingredients

1 pound large sea scallops, patted dry
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lemon, zested and juiced
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfectly seared scallops:

Prepare the Scallops

Season the scallops lightly with salt and pepper on both sides.

Heat the Pan

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Sear the Scallops

Add scallops to the skillet in a single layer. Sear without moving them for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Add Butter and Flavor

Flip the scallops, add butter, lemon juice, and dill to the pan. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until cooked through.

Serve

Remove from heat and serve immediately, drizzled with pan sauce for extra flavor.

Enjoy your perfectly seared scallops with your favorite side dish!

Pro Tips

For the best results, ensure your scallops are completely dry before searing and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Make-Ahead Tips

While fresh scallops are best cooked right before serving, you can prepare the components of this dish in advance. Prepare the lemon-dill butter sauce a few hours ahead; simply mix the lemon juice, zest, and chopped dill with softened butter and refrigerate. When you're ready to cook, just sear the scallops and toss them with your pre-made sauce once they're done. This pre-preparation can save you valuable time during a busy dinner party.

If you're planning a larger gathering, consider searing the scallops in batches. This way, you can maintain a steady cooking temperature in the pan, ensuring each scallop receives the attention it deserves. Keep the first batch warm in the oven at a low temperature (around 200°F) while you finish cooking the rest of the scallops.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon dill seared scallops pair beautifully with seasonal vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or a vibrant salad. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over roasted veggies adds an additional layer of flavor that complements the scallops wonderfully. For a heartier meal, consider serving them over a bed of creamy risotto or alongside garlic mashed potatoes, which would soak up any remaining sauce from the skillet.

To make the presentation stunning, serve the scallops on a large platter and garnish with fresh dill sprigs and lemon wedges. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also allows guests to add more lemon if they desire. Enjoying this dish with a glass of dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, can elevate the dining experience even further.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen scallops?

Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What can I serve with scallops?

They pair wonderfully with asparagus, mashed potatoes, or a light salad.

→ Is it necessary to use fresh dill?

Fresh herbs provide a superior flavor, but you can substitute with dried dill if needed.

→ How do I know when the scallops are done?

Scallops are done when they are opaque in the center and have a nice golden crust.