Pan Seared Scallops For Two – A Simple & Elegant Valentine’s Day Dinner

Pan seared scallops are one of the most elegant meals you can make at home, yet they are surprisingly simple to prepare. With a golden crust on the outside and a tender, buttery center, scallops are what I consider a special occasion dish. However they are surprisingly easy to make.

What I love about scallops is that they cook quickly and rely on a simple cooking technique rather than relying heavily seasoning or sauces. When prepared correctly, their natural sweetness shines through, complimented by butter, garlic, and a splash of lemon.

In less than 15 minutes, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that feels thoughtful, romantic, and indulgent. And that is why they make the perfect Valentine’s Day dinner at home for two.

Whether you’re planning a quiet Valentine’s evening or simply want a beautiful seafood dinner at home, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Why Pan Seared Scallops Are Perfect For A Romantic Dinner

Few dishes say “special occasion” quite like scallops. They’re light yet rich, elegant yet comforting, and they pair beautifully with simple sides. Because scallops cook so fast, you can focus on enjoying the evening instead of spending all night in the kitchen.

Another reason scallops work so well when cooking for two is portion size. A half-pound of scallops is ideal for two people, providing generous servings without leftovers. They plate beautifully, making them easy to dress up with a garnish or simple sauce.

Best of all, scallops don’t require marinades or long prep times. When pan seared properly, they develop a golden crust that locks in flavor and moisture, creating a dish that is both refined and satisfying.

Choosing The Best Scallops For Pan Searing

For the best pan seared scallops, look for dry sea scallops. Dry scallops have not been treated with preservatives and will sear properly in a hot skillet. Wet scallops release excess liquid and tend to steam instead of browning.

Just double check to make sure you are buying sea scallops and not bay scallops. Sea scallops are larger and ideal for pan searing. Bay scallops are much smaller and cook too quickly for this method.

Fresh scallops are wonderful when available, but frozen scallops work just as well when fully thawed and patted dry.

However, before cooking be sure to remove the small side muscle if it’s still attached. This piece can be slightly tough and pulls away easily with your fingers.

The Key To Perfectly Seared Scallops

The most important step when making pan seared scallops is drying them thoroughly. Moisture is the enemy of a good sear. Use paper towels to pat them dry on all sides before seasoning.

A hot skillet is also essential. Scallops should sizzle immediately when placed in the pan. Resist the urge to move them. Let them cook undisturbed so they create that beautiful golden crust.

Scallops cook very quickly, usually in just a few minutes per side. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so timing is critical. When done, they should be opaque and slightly firm to the touch.

Pan Seared Scallops Recipe For Two

*A printable recipe card is located at the bottom of this article which contains the specific measurements, temperatures and cook times. However, continue reading below to learn about more helpful tips about this specific recipe.

INGREDIENTS

• ½ pound sea scallops (about 8–10 large scallops)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

INSTRUCTIONS

Pat scallops very dry with paper towels and remove the side muscle if present. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and allow it to heat until shimmering.

Place scallops in the skillet in a single layer, making sure they are not touching. Cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until a deep golden crust forms.

Flip scallops and cook for an additional 1½ to 2 minutes, until opaque and just firm.

Reduce heat to low. Add butter and garlic to the skillet and gently spoon the melted butter over the scallops for about 30 seconds.

Remove from heat, drizzle with lemon juice, and serve immediately.

How To Tell When Scallops Are Done

Perfectly cooked scallops should be opaque all the way through and slightly firm when pressed. The center should not look translucent, but they should still feel tender.

If scallops are left on the heat too long, they can become tough. It’s better to slightly undercook them than overcook, as they will continue to cook briefly after being removed from the pan.

A golden crust on both sides is a good visual indicator that the scallops are ready not only on the outside, but on the inside as well.

Serving Ideas For Valentine’s Day

Pan seared scallops pair beautifully with simple sides that don’t overpower their delicate flavor. Creamy risotto, garlic mashed potatoes, Rosemary Roasted Red Potatoes or buttered pasta make excellent choices for a romantic dinner.

For something lighter, serve scallops over sautéed spinach or alongside roasted asparagus. A crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon completes the meal perfectly.

Plating matters when serving scallops. Arrange them neatly on the plate, drizzle with the butter sauce, and add a sprinkle of parsley for color and freshness.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

Scallops are best enjoyed immediately after cooking. They do not reheat well and can become rubbery if stored and reheated. For best results, plan to cook them just before serving.

If prepping ahead, scallops can be cleaned, dried, and seasoned up to an hour in advance and stored uncovered in the refrigerator. This actually helps remove excess moisture and improves browning.

Once you make scallops using this easy method they might become a new favorite ‘special occasion’ recipe in your house as it has in mine!

Enjoy! Mary

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