Seared Scallops with Lemon-Herb Rice is a refined and flavorful dish that pairs succulent, golden-brown scallops with a light, fragrant rice dish. The scallops are seared in hot butter until crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. They’re served on a bed of rice infused with fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, and a mix of herbs like parsley, thyme, and dill, creating a perfect balance of brightness and earthiness. The combination of the rich scallops and the zesty rice makes for a sophisticated yet simple meal.
I first made Seared Scallops with Lemon-Herb Rice when I wanted to treat myself to something special, but still light and fresh. The scallops are so easy to cook, and the lemon-herb rice perfectly complements their sweetness. What I love most about this recipe is how quick it comes together—searing the scallops only takes a few minutes, and the rice can be made while they cook. It’s a great choice for a special occasion, date night, or anytime you want a dish that feels elegant without a lot of fuss. Paired with a glass of white wine, it’s a meal that feels indulgent yet light and refreshing!
Perfect for:
- Special dinners
- Romantic meals
- Seafood lovers
- Light yet satisfying meals
- Celebrations and dinner parties
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 9 reasons why Seared Scallops with Lemon-Herb Rice will become your go-to seafood dish:
- Perfectly Seared Scallops: The scallops are seared to a golden-brown crust while remaining tender and juicy inside.
- Citrusy Freshness: The lemon and fresh herbs add a light and refreshing burst of flavor to balance the richness of the scallops.
- Elegant Presentation: The dish looks stunning with its vibrant rice and delicately seared scallops, making it ideal for impressing guests.
- Quick and Easy to Prepare: Despite its sophisticated appearance, this dish can be made in less than 30 minutes.
- Light yet Satisfying: This meal is flavorful and filling without being heavy, making it a great choice for a lighter dinner.
- Versatile Flavors: The lemon and herb rice can be adjusted to your taste, allowing for customization.
- Healthy and Nutritious: With high-quality protein from the scallops and wholesome rice, this dish is both nourishing and delicious.
- Make-Ahead Rice: The rice can be prepared ahead of time and simply reheated before serving.
- Impress Your Guests: Whether it’s a casual meal or a formal dinner party, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 10g
Ingredients
For the Scallops:
- 1 lb sea scallops (about 16-20)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the Lemon-Herb Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water or broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Ingredient Highlights
- Sea Scallops: Tender, sweet, and succulent, they offer a premium seafood experience.
- Lemon Zest and Juice: Provide a tangy brightness that complements the richness of the scallops.
- Fresh Herbs: Parsley adds a burst of color and fresh flavor, enhancing the dish’s overall lightness.
- Butter and Olive Oil: A combination that ensures a golden sear on the scallops while adding richness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Lemon-Herb Rice:
- Rinse the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring water or broth to a boil. Add the rice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender.
- Add Lemon and Herbs: Remove from heat and fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm.
Prepare the Scallops:
- Pat Dry: Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps achieve a crispy sear.
- Season the Scallops: Season both sides of the scallops with salt and pepper.
- Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
- Sear the Scallops: Once the oil is hot, add the scallops and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Add butter to the pan during the last minute of cooking for added richness.
- Rest the Scallops: Remove the scallops from the pan and set them aside to rest for a minute.
Assemble the Dish:
- Plate the Rice: Spoon the lemon-herb rice onto the center of each plate.
- Arrange the Scallops: Place the seared scallops on top of the rice.
Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with additional parsley and a wedge of lemon for extra brightness. Serve immediately.
How to Serve
Here are 9 serving suggestions for Seared Scallops with Lemon-Herb Rice:
- As a Main Course: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- For Special Occasions: Ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or a romantic dinner.
- With a Side Salad: Pair with a light arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette.
- As an Appetizer: Serve smaller portions for a sophisticated seafood starter.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Complement with roasted asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.
- For Dinner Parties: Serve with other seafood dishes for an elegant seafood spread.
- With Garlic Bread: Add a side of warm garlic bread for dipping in the buttery scallop juices.
- For a Casual Dinner: Serve with a simple green vegetable like sautéed spinach.
- As a Light Lunch: Enjoy as a refreshing, protein-packed lunch on a warm day.
Additional Tips
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Sear the scallops in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, ensuring a golden crust.
- Check for Doneness: Scallops should be opaque in the center and firm to the touch, but still tender.
- Rest the Scallops: Let the scallops rest briefly after cooking for the best texture.
- Seasoning: Season the rice and scallops to your taste with extra lemon or herbs.
- Use Fresh Scallops: For the best flavor and texture, choose fresh, high-quality scallops over frozen.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Scallops: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the scallops for a bit of heat.
- Coconut Rice: Replace the lemon juice with coconut milk for a tropical twist.
- Garlic-Herb Scallops: Add minced garlic to the pan when searing the scallops for extra flavor.
- Wild Rice: Use wild rice or brown rice for a nuttier, heartier option.
- Add Veggies to Rice: Stir in sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the rice.
- Gluten-Free Version: Naturally gluten-free, just ensure any broth used is gluten-free.
- Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the scallops for a tangy contrast.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace scallops with grilled tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
Special Equipment
- Nonstick Skillet: For searing the scallops evenly without sticking.
- Rice Cooker or Pot: For cooking the rice perfectly.
- Zester: For extracting fresh lemon zest.
- Tongs: To handle the delicate scallops without breaking them.
- Sharp Knife: For finely chopping fresh herbs.
FAQ Section
- Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before searing. - How do I prevent the scallops from sticking to the pan?
Ensure the pan is hot and properly oiled, and avoid overcrowding. - What can I serve with this dish?
Pair with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a well-rounded meal. - Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but it will require a longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly. - How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the scallops. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply increase the ingredients and cook in batches if necessary. - What’s the best way to reheat the scallops?
Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to prevent them from becoming tough. - Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, you can use jasmine or basmati rice for a different flavor profile. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the rice in advance, but it’s best to sear the scallops just before serving. - What’s the best way to cut the scallops?
Scallops are best served whole, but you can slice them into smaller pieces if desired.
Conclusion
Seared Scallops with Lemon-Herb Rice is a light and elegant dish that perfectly combines the delicate sweetness of perfectly seared scallops with the bright, zesty flavor of lemon-infused rice. The scallops are seared to a golden, caramelized crust while remaining tender and juicy on the inside, while the rice is aromatic, fluffy, and enhanced by fresh herbs and citrus. This dish is a refreshing and sophisticated option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
The recipe is simple yet impressive, allowing the natural flavors of the scallops to shine through, complemented by the fragrant lemon-herb rice. Whether served on its own or with a light side salad, this meal offers a balance of freshness and richness that will leave you craving more.
I can’t wait to see how your Seared Scallops with Lemon-Herb Rice turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!