Pan Fried Sea Scallops

Ingredients

  • 1 to 1 1/4 pounds dry sea scallops, approximately 16 (See note below.)
  • 2 teaspoons unsalted butter
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 2 sliced or minced garlic cloves (added)
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Remove the small side muscle from the scallops, rinse with cold water and thoroughly pat dry.
  2. Add the butter and oil to a 12 to 14-inch saute pan on high heat.
  3. Place garlic in pan for 1-2 minutes.
  4. Salt and pepper the scallops (IF you did not pre-season per note on bottom.)
  5. Once the fat begins to smoke, gently add the scallops, making sure they are not touching each other.
  6. Sear the scallops for 1 1/2 minutes on each side. The scallops should have a 1/4-inch golden crust on each side while still being translucent in the center.
  7. Serve immediately.

NOTE: I sprinkle Old Bay Seasoning and a dash of garlic salt to my scallops as they are defrosting. I typically purchase frozen scallops from Aldi. Each bag contains 8-9 large scallops per bag. Historically, excellent quality.

Serve with steamed aspargus, rice pilaf and crusty bread for a delicious, quick to make meal.

SOURCE: https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/alton-brown/seared-scallops-recipe-1916984