Description
This Gordon Ramsay Pan-Seared Scallops recipe delivers perfectly golden, tender scallops with a rich buttery garlic and herb infusion. Quick to prepare in just 15 minutes, this dish is ideal for an elegant yet simple seafood meal, showcasing the natural sweetness of fresh sea scallops enhanced by the crisp sear and aromatic basting.
Ingredients
Scale
Scallops
- 12 large sea scallops
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Cooking
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 garlic clove, smashed
- Fresh thyme or parsley, a few sprigs
Instructions
- Dry the scallops: Pat the sea scallops dry thoroughly using paper towels to ensure a perfect sear without steaming.
- Season the scallops: Sprinkle salt and black pepper evenly on both sides of the scallops for balanced flavor.
- Heat the skillet: Place a skillet over high heat and allow it to become very hot, which is essential for achieving a golden crust.
- Add olive oil and sear: Pour the olive oil into the hot skillet, then carefully place the scallops in, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Cook undisturbed: Let the scallops cook without moving for 1½ to 2 minutes to form a golden crust on the bottom.
- Flip the scallops: Turn the scallops over once the crust is golden and crisp.
- Add butter, garlic, and herbs: Add butter, the smashed garlic clove, and fresh thyme or parsley to the pan to infuse flavor as the scallops finish cooking.
- Baste scallops: Tilt the pan and use a spoon to baste the scallops continuously with the melted butter, garlic, and herb mixture.
- Finish cooking: Cook the scallops for another 1 to 2 minutes until they turn just opaque inside but remain tender.
- Serve immediately: Remove scallops from the heat promptly and serve to enjoy their optimal texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure scallops are very dry before searing to prevent steaming and to get a crisp crust.
- Use fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for the best aromatic flavor.
- Do not overcook scallops as they turn rubbery; they should be just opaque inside.
- You can substitute fresh herbs with dried but reduce quantity to avoid overpowering the delicate flavor.
- Serve scallops immediately after cooking for the best texture and taste.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British
Keywords: Gordon Ramsay, pan-seared scallops, sea scallops, seafood recipe, quick scallops, garlic butter scallops
