Description
Sizzling Scallops with Lime-Cilantro Butter Sauce is a fresh, zesty, and elegant seafood dish that comes together in minutes. Perfectly seared scallops are bathed in a buttery lime and cilantro sauce for a light yet indulgent meal, ideal for special occasions or a quick gourmet dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb sea scallops, patted dry
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lime wedges, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Pat scallops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
- Add scallops to the skillet in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add butter and garlic; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in lime juice, zest, and chopped cilantro. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return scallops to the pan and spoon sauce over them to coat.
- Serve immediately with extra lime wedges, if desired.
Notes
- Make sure scallops are dry for the best sear—moisture prevents browning.
- Pair with rice, pasta, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
- You can substitute parsley for cilantro if preferred.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: seared scallops, lime cilantro scallops, seafood dinner, butter sauce, elegant dinner